About PFX™

We engineer leading fluid solutions that keep the world moving and we’re building a better future while we do it. As a vertically integrated global powerhouse, we operate 17 manufacturing facilities and 4 R&D centers across the world, delivering performance from lab to road in over 40 countries.

PFX Group™ brings together a family of trusted companies including Recochem, Prestone, Adam’s Polishes, B&B Blending, Kost USA, Ultra Clear, POR and Auto-Chem, each with deep expertise, regional insight, and a shared commitment to engineering excellence.

From automotive and heavy-duty thermal management systems to household and industrial solutions, our products are built for performance, reliability, and a commitment to sustainability. Join us and be part of a team that’s redefining what’s possible in fluid technology.

PFX Group is seeking a Hands-on Operations Manager to lead manufacturing operations at our Nisku chemical production facility. This role is responsible for overseeing filling, blow molding, blending, scheduling and bulk terminal operations, with a strong emphasis on Safety First, followed by quality and operational excellence. The Operations Manager will be a visible leader on the production floor, driving performance, people engagement, and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee day-to-day operations for filling, blow molding, blending, scheduling, and bulk terminal activities while providing clear daily direction, expectations, and performance feedback to supervisors and frontline staff to ensure consistency and accountability.
• Champion a Safety First culture; safety is the top priority in all decisions, followed by quality and productivity.
• Serve as a hands-on, visible leader working closely with supervisors and plant personnel.
• Conduct regular one on one check ins with supervisors to review priorities, workload, employee concerns, and development needs.
• Build strong rapport with employees and foster a positive, accountable work environment.
• Actively foster inclusion and respectful workplace expectations, intervening early when behaviors fall outside company values.
• Drive and monitor operational performance using metrics such as OEE, efficiencies, downtime, scrap reduction and throughput.
• Analyze downtime and performance losses and lead corrective actions on the floor.
• Oversee inventory management and maintain strong working knowledge of ERP systems.
• Partner closely with warehousing and logistics teams to ensure efficient material flow and on-time shipments.
• Own P&L responsibility for assigned departments, including budget management and cost control.
• Lead and support CapEx projects, OpEx initiatives, and continuous improvement efforts.
• Lead effective performance management, including coaching for improvement, corrective action, and documentation in partnership with HR.
• Collaborate with engineering and maintenance teams to ensure equipment reliability and uptime.
• Develop cross-functional alignment across operations, maintenance, quality, warehousing, and supply chain.
• Identify skill gaps and create development plans to build technical capability and leadership strength within the operations team.
• Model fair and consistent decision making aligned with company policies, employment standards, and progressive discipline practices.
• Resolve workplace conflicts promptly, facilitating conversations and collaborating with HR on escalated issues.
• Ensure workforce planning alignment, including staffing levels, shift coverage, vacation planning, and succession readiness.

First 90 Days – What Success Looks Like:

• Spend significant time on the production floor learning the operation hands-on
• Develop a deep understanding of blending, blow molding, filling, Scheduling and bulk terminal processes
• Build strong working relationships with supervisors and key team members
• Gain cross-functional knowledge of quality, maintenance, warehousing, and supply chain operations
• Assess OEE, downtime, efficiencies, and current operating practices
• Understand and begin owning departmental budgets and financial performance
• Identify immediate safety, quality, and operational improvement opportunities

Qualifications:

• Minimum 5+ years of experience leading people in a manufacturing or industrial environment
• Prior experience in chemical manufacturing or related industries preferred
• Strong hands-on operational and maintenance background
• Technical aptitude to understand chemical formulas and manufacturing processes
• Experience with OEE metrics, downtime analysis, and production routing
• Experience with ERP systems, scheduling, and inventory management
• Engineering background (Chemical, Mechanical, Industrial) is a plus
• Proven ability to lead continuous improvement initiatives

What We Offer

• Competitive compensation
• Career growth opportunities – we prioritize internal promotions
• Employer funded retirement plan
• Comprehensive health benefits, including medical and dental coverage and Telemedicine
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – confidential support for mental health, financial advice, and more
• Paid vacation and statutory holidays
• Tuition assistance program – support for continued education and professional development

Please note: A pre-employment background check, including a criminal record check, is required.

PFX is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace.

NOTICE TO EMPLOYEES AND APPLICANTS REGARDING THE USE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)

Our Commitment to Fairness and Transparency

The PFX Group may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) or Automated Decision Systems (ADS) to assist in certain employment-related processes, such as recruitment and hiring. These tools are intended to support decision-making, not replace human judgment.