Plant Manager - Frac Sand Facility (5+ yrs exp req) at Independence TX LLC – Strasburg, Ohio

As the Plant Manager, you will be responsible for the overall performance and efficient operation of a frac sand mining & production facility. This role oversees all aspects of sand production, including mining, conveyance, fluid pumping, screening, drying, storage, and loadout. The Plant Manager ensures safe and compliant operations, drives production efficiency, manages and develops staff, and maintains quality standards to meet customer requirements.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Operational Leadership: Direct and oversee daily frac sand mining and processing operations to meet production goals while ensuring maximum uptime and efficiency.
• Team Management: Lead, train, and mentor plant personnel, supervisors, and support staff, promoting a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Quality Control: Ensure frac sand meets customer specifications by overseeing testing, monitoring, and adherence to quality assurance protocols.
• Production Planning: Develop and execute production schedules based on resource availability, equipment capacity, and sales demands.
• Cost Management: Manage operating expenses, monitor plant budgets, and optimize labor, equipment, and materials to improve cost efficiency.
• Safety and Compliance: Maintain strict compliance with MSHA Part 46, environmental regulations, and company safety policies. Conduct regular inspections, hazard assessments, and incident investigations.
• Continuous Improvement: Identify process inefficiencies and implement best practices and new technologies to enhance performance and reduce waste.
• Inventory & Logistics: Oversee storage, loadout, and product shipments, ensuring accurate tracking of inventory and coordination with logistics teams for timely delivery.
• Communication: Serve as the primary liaison between plant operations, senior management, and other departments, ensuring transparency and collaboration.
• Reporting & Documentation: Maintain accurate records of production, maintenance, safety, and compliance metrics, and provide regular operational reports to leadership.
• Budget Oversight: Participate in the development and management of the plant budget, ensuring financial goals are met.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• 10 years of experience in plant or mining operations management, with frac sand or aggregate industry experience strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated success in leading teams and driving operational excellence.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills with a focus on safety and efficiency.
• Knowledge of frac sand mining processes, material handling systems, and plant equipment.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s degree in Mining Engineering, Industrial/Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent industry experience.

CERTIFICATIONS/LICENSES

• MSHA Part 46 Training (required or ability to obtain).
• Additional safety or leadership certifications are preferred.

HARDWARE/SOFTWARE SKILLS

• Proficiency in plant management systems, maintenance software, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Familiarity with SCADA or similar process control systems preferred.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & SENSORY REQUIREMENTS??

• Ability to work in both office and field environments.
• Exposure to dust, noise, vibration, and varying weather conditions.
• Must be able to climb ladders, walk on uneven surfaces, and lift up to 50 lbs as needed.