Manufacturing Operations Manager

Job ID : 3926 Closing Date : 11/17/2026 This position could be located in the following location(s) : Circular Solutions Site - Connersville Who We Are: At NOVA Chemicals we are reshaping plastics for a better, more sustainable world. Our dedicated team of talented individuals works collaboratively to create circular plastic solutions that make everyday life safer, healthier and better. With a focus on safety, social responsibility, and environmental stewardship, we strive to constantly improve and shape the future of our industry. Join our team of talented professionals who are passionate about making a difference and be a part of our journey towards sustainability leadership. Together we can create a better, more circular tomorrow. The Manufacturing Operations Manager is a key member of NOVA Circular Solutions’ Mechanical Recycling Team, providing day-to-day leadership of the Connersville manufacturing facility. Reporting to the Plant Manager, this role is responsible for driving safe, reliable, and cost-effective operations across production, process engineering, quality, maintenance, inventory management, and capital projects. This position combines operational leadership with hands-on process engineering expertise, serving as a key resource for manufacturing processes, equipment optimization, and continuous improvement. The Manufacturing Operations Manager drives productivity, product quality, and operational excellence through effective process control, technical development, and Lean Manufacturing principles. Direct reports include Production Supervisors and Process/Technical Staff, with indirect responsibility for hourly manufacturing employees across the facility. You Will Use Your Expertise To: Lead daily manufacturing operations with a focus on safety, quality, productivity, cost, and on-time delivery. Ensure compliance with OSHA, EPA, BRCGS, company, and other regulatory requirements. Monitor key performance indicators and drive actions to improve overall plant performance. Lead, coach, and develop salaried and hourly employees, establishing clear expectations and accountability. Serve as back-up supervision for operational departments as needed. Troubleshoot and resolve manufacturing process issues related to extrusion, thermoforming, and other production systems. Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean Manufacturing, Kaizen, A3 problem-solving, root cause analysis, and other process improvement tools. Identify and implement improvements that increase productivity and quality while reducing waste and operating costs. Develop and maintain process controls, operating procedures, and troubleshooting standards. Use process capability, statistical process control, and design of experiments to improve process stability and performance. Provide technical leadership for new product introductions, product changes, and production start-ups. Oversee plant engineering, maintenance activities, equipment performance, and facility operations. Support equipment retrofits, upgrades, and new equipment installations. Develop capital project plans, prepare cost estimates, and support implementation of approved capital investments. Evaluate the technical and economic feasibility of new products, equipment, and process improvement initiatives. Support inventory and materials management. Develop technical capabilities across the organization through training, coaching, and ongoing employee development, while maintaining appropriate training and process documentation. Foster a culture of continuous learning, accountability, engagement, and operational excellence. What We Are Looking For: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Plastics Engineering, Materials Science, or a related technical field preferred; an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience may be considered. Minimum of 5 years of manufacturing operations and/or process engineering leadership …

View the full posting and apply