Senior Operator at Ponderosa Solutions LLC – North Kingstown, Rhode Island

The Lead Operator (Operator 4) serves as the technical and operational leader on site, ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant daily operations. This role oversees operator training and field onboarding, serves as the subject matter expert on site equipment and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and leads operational readiness during shifts.

The Lead Operator plays a key role in maintaining safety compliance, supporting operational improvements, commissioning new equipment, and guiding Operators 1–3 through hands-on leadership and technical expertise while coordinating closely with the Site Supervisor and Terminal Manager.

Key Responsibilities

1. Leadership, Management & Accountability (LMA)

• Lead by example in operational discipline, professionalism, safety, and company values.
• Provide non-managerial leadership to Operators 1–3 on site.
• Delegate workload and coordinate daily operational tasks.
• Conduct shift meetings and ensure team readiness for operational activities.
• Ensure proper completion and oversight of field documentation and operational paperwork.

2. Shift Operations Execution

• Serve as the shift leader and primary operational contact during assigned shifts.
• Ensure shift readiness and smooth operational handoffs between crews.
• Initiate operational discussions, address equipment concerns, and resolve workflow issues.
• Coordinate daily work assignments to maintain operational efficiency.
• Support production planning by collaborating with management on operational goals and resource allocation.

3. Workflow Compliance

• Ensure all operators are knowledgeable of and compliant with site Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Assist with the revision and improvement of site SOPs and delegate tasks related to revisions.
• Serve as the subject matter expert on all site SOPs and provide guidance when procedural adjustments are required.
• Monitor operator adherence to workflows and escalate training needs to the Site Supervisor or Terminal Manager.

4. Quality Control

• Ensure operational processes are executed according to established quality standards.
• Monitor field operations to ensure proper procedures and documentation are maintained.
• Assist with identifying operational inefficiencies and recommend improvements.

5. Training & Onboarding Support

• Oversee onboarding and field training for all Operators 1–3 on site.
• Ensure operators develop the knowledge and skills required to safely perform assigned tasks.
• Escalate training needs or performance gaps to the Site Supervisor or Terminal Manager.
• Verify operators are trained and capable of performing tasks safely and efficiently.

6. Equipment Oversight & Resource Management

• Serve as the subject matter expert on all site equipment, including Level 1 and Level 2 advanced equipment operations.
• Lead the commissioning and startup of new equipment at the site.
• Ensure operators are properly trained and capable of operating equipment safely and efficiently.
• Establish routine maintenance schedules for new equipment based on manufacturer recommendations.
• Monitor equipment readiness and escalate maintenance or repair needs.

7. Safety Oversight

• Lead external audits and ensure site-wide compliance with regulatory requirements including OSHA, DOT, EPA, and other applicable regulations.
• Promote safe work practices and ensure proper use of PPE.
• Participate in and lead incident investigations for site and multi-site incidents.
• Serve as a subject matter expert during investigations and assist in identifying corrective actions.

8. Operational Compliance & Documentation

• Ensure all field documentation and operational data collection is completed accurately.
• Review documentation for completeness and submit required reports to the Site Supervisor or Terminal Manager.
• Maintain accurate operational records to support compliance and reporting requirements.
• Ensure housekeeping initiatives are completed and escalated appropriately when deficiencies are identified.

9. Collaboration & Continuous Improvement

• Work with management to support production goals, resource allocation, and operational planning.
• Lead multi-department initiatives such as system upgrades or new equipment commissioning.
• Support operational improvements that enhance safety, efficiency, and reliability.
• Maintain a working understanding of Terminal Manager responsibilities and processes.
• Be prepared to temporarily fulfill Terminal Manager responsibilities for short periods (1–3 days) when required.

• Leadership: Ability to lead operators through technical guidance and hands-on operational leadership.
• Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to identify operational issues and implement solutions efficiently.
• Organization: Ability to prioritize tasks, delegate work, and maintain operational documentation.
• Technical Knowledge: Advanced understanding of site equipment, operational processes, and SOPs.
• Safety Mindset: Strong commitment to maintaining a safe and compliant work environment.
• Training: Must be able to obtain in first 6 months HAZWOPER certification.