Operations Manager - Chemical Manufacturing - Williamsburg, VA

This position oversees daily operations for a manufacturing business unit, ensuring production targets, quality standards, and customer expectations are consistently met. The role combines operational leadership, technical problem‑solving, team management, and collaboration with engineering and commercial teams. It is well‑suited for a hands‑on leader who excels in high‑volume, process‑driven environments and enjoys driving continuous improvement.

Client Details

A stable, established manufacturing organization with a strong technical foundation and a commitment to quality, safety, and customer satisfaction. The facility produces precision‑engineered components using high‑volume operations and specialized processing technologies. The culture encourages teamwork, innovation, and ongoing improvement.

Description

• Lead daily manufacturing operations to meet production, cost, and quality goals.
• Oversee a team of 25-50 employees, including performance management, hiring, engagement, and retention.
• Troubleshoot complex process issues alongside engineering, technical teams, and senior leadership.
• Collaborate with customers on applications, product improvements, and technical concerns.
• Uphold safety, health, and environmental standards; drive compliance and training initiatives.
• Support quality systems, SPC, layered audits, and daily operational procedures.
• Partner with executives to enhance plant safety, efficiency, and profitability.
• Coordinate engineering, maintenance, and other support groups to minimize downtime.
• Manage preventative maintenance efforts and lead continuous improvement initiatives.
• Perform additional tasks as required to support unit performance.

Profile

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Management (Mechanical, Industrial, Chemical preferred) or equivalent experience.
• Background in high‑volume manufacturing; exposure to metal finishing or precision processing is a plus.
• Strong leadership capability with proven experience managing larger teams.
• Solid understanding of manufacturing processes, electrochemistry, circuitry, machining, or metrology.
• Skilled in project management, problem solving, and use of statistical tools.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office; CAD experience is beneficial.
• Experience with Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methodologies.
• Military backgrounds welcome in place of certain manufacturing experience.
• Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate cross‑functionally.

Job Offer

• Leadership role with ownership of a key production business unit.
• Opportunity to influence quality, efficiency, and operational strategy.
• Stable environment with long‑term growth potential and strong leadership support.
• Exposure to technical processes and customer-facing problem solving.
• Competitive compensation, benefits, and professional development opportunities.

MPI does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, or based on an individual's status in any group or class protected by applicable federal, state or local law. MPI encourages applications from minorities, women, the disabled, protected veterans and all other qualified applicants.