Laboratory Manager

About the role

Italmatch USA Corporation develops, manufactures, and markets specialty chemicals throughout North America and globally as part of the Italmatch Chemicals Group. We are committed to innovation, operational excellence, safety, and sustainability.

The Production Manager leads all manufacturing operations at the Smyrna Plant, ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant production while driving continuous improvement, operational excellence, and employee engagement.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute production schedules.
• Optimize personnel, equipment, and raw materials.
• Coordinate with Maintenance, Quality, Planning, and Logistics.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA, EPA, PSM, RCRA, and company policies.
• Lead safety meetings, incident investigations, and risk assessments.
• Drive Lean and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Monitor KPIs including output, yield, downtime, and OEE.
• Coach and develop supervisors, operators, and technicians.
• Conduct performance reviews and training.
• Partner with Quality to meet product specifications.
• Manage budgets, resources, and production reporting.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical, Mechanical, Industrial Engineering, or related field.
• 10+ years in chemical manufacturing with 5+ years of leadership experience.
• Knowledge of batch processing and Process Safety Management (PSM).
• Experience with SAP or other ERP/MES systems.
• Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Must successfully complete a Department of Homeland Security background check, pre-placement physical (including respirator clearance), and pre-employment drug screening.

Preferred Qualifications

• ISO 9001/14001 or Responsible Care® experience.
• Lean, Six Sigma, or PMP certification.
• Knowledge of PLC/DCS automation.

Working Conditions

• Chemical manufacturing environment requiring appropriate PPE.
• Availability for off-shift, weekend, and emergency support as needed.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and incentive opportunity.
• Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Paid Time Off and Holidays.
• Company-paid Life and Disability Insurance.
• Career growth with a global specialty chemicals leader.