Operations Lead

Benefits:

• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Training & development
• Vision insurance
• Wellness resources
• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Competitive salary
• Dental insurance

OPERATIONS LEAD

Schedule: Full-time Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Work Location: Gulfport, MS (Fully Onsite; multi-site travel)

Reports To: VP of Operations

Position Overview The Operations Lead is a hands-on technical professional responsible for resolving equipment and operational challenges and improving performance across multiple manufacturing plants. Reporting directly to the VP of Operations, this individual investigates problems, develops practical solutions, and follows approved corrective actions through completion. This is a non-supervisory position. The ideal candidate brings strong mechanical skills, sound judgment, and the ability to work independently across departments. The role also supports equipment installations, facility improvements, and capital projects. This role is well suited for a plant, process, reliability, or manufacturing engineer. Travel is required, up to 30% of the time, to plant locations and project sites.

Key Responsibilities

Plant & Equipment Troubleshooting

• Diagnose mechanical and operational issues involving pumps, motors, tanks, piping, valves, heating systems, controls, and other production equipment; identify root causes and recommend cost-effective corrective actions.
• Coordinate implementation of approved corrective actions, monitor recurring equipment failures and downtime, and track assigned actions through completion.

Operational Improvement & Quality

• Assess workflows, equipment performance, and plant layouts to improve safety, product quality, reliability, and efficiency.
• Participate in cross-functional problem-solving sessions addressing plant-level issues, supply chain challenges, and customer complaints; recommend practical resolutions.
• Evaluate preventive maintenance practices, inspections, operating procedures, and compliance-related improvements.

Projects & Technical Coordination

• Coordinate assigned equipment installations, facility improvements, and CAPEX activities from planning through startup.
• Review technical specifications, drawings, proposals, budgets, and schedules; assist with commissioning and operational turnover.
• Work with plant personnel, vendors, and contractors to execute approved technical solutions and resolve project issues.

KPI Reporting & Accountability

• Analyze and report plant performance, equipment downtime, and operating trends; identify opportunities for improvement.
• Maintain KPI dashboards, operational tracking reports, and corrective-action logs; communicate performance results, risks, and action status to the VP of Operations.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Industrial Engineering with 5+ years of experience preferred; equivalent hands-on experience will be considered.
• Demonstrated hands-on mechanical troubleshooting skills and ability to interpret equipment manuals, technical drawings, and process layouts.
• Working knowledge of equipment installations, contractor coordination, project budgets, schedules, and startup activities.
• Strong written and verbal communication, organizational, and analytical skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel; familiarity with AI tools for research and productivity.
• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification and project-management software experience are a plus.

The responsibilities outlined above are not all-inclusive and may be modified based on evolving business needs and operational requirements.

Compensation

Competitive compensation based on qualifications and experience.

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Health Reimbursement Account (HRA)
• Flexible Spending Account (Health and Dependent Care)
• Life insurance (company provided with voluntary buy-up options)
• Short-Term Disability insurance
• Long-Term Disability insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Safety equipment provided
• TWIC and Hazmat certification assistance

Application Requirements:

Candidates must be U.S. citizens or possess valid proof of authorization to work in the United States. At Blacklidge, we are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all job applicants and employees, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, marital status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law.

Please note that all applicants will undergo a pre-employment online teaming assessment, drug screen, and background check. Job offers will be contingent upon successfully passing these requirements. Additionally, Blacklidge conducts random substance testing of its employees to maintain a safe and drug-free workplace.

Embark on this rewarding journey with us by applying today!

Blacklidge is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer.