1730 - Operations Mgr I

Harcros Chemicals is an employee-owned chemical manufacturing and distribution company headquartered in Kansas City, Kansas, with over a century of industry experience. With operations across North America and a nationwide distribution network, we deliver reliable, high-quality chemical solutions to customers worldwide across industries including water treatment, agriculture, oil and gas, personal care, and more. Safety, sustainability, and exceptional service are at the core of everything we do.

Position Summary:

The Operations Manager is responsible for leading and coordinating all facility operations, including warehouse, transportation, inventory, office administration, and regulatory compliance activities. Reporting to the District Manager, this role oversees clerical, warehouse, and driving teams to ensure safe, efficient, and cost-effective operations. The Operations Manager works cross-functionally with purchasing, sales, suppliers, and customers to maintain service excellence, optimize operational performance, ensure compliance with environmental and safety regulations, and foster a positive, accountable workplace culture.

This position plays a critical leadership role in supporting business growth, maintaining operational excellence, and ensuring adherence to company policies and industry regulations, including EPA and OSHA requirements.

Key Responsibilities:

Operational Leadership

• Manage day-to-day operations of warehouse, transportation, inventory, and office functions.
• Coordinate with purchasing and office personnel to maintain adequate inventory levels and support efficient product flow.
• Schedule production activities, process customer orders, and oversee product packaging operations.
• Coordinate truck routing, delivery schedules, and transportation logistics.
• Oversee warehouse equipment, vehicle maintenance, and facility operational readiness.
• Analyze and improve administrative processes, including payroll, bookkeeping, filing systems, and general office operations.

Supplier & Customer Management

• Collaborate with suppliers and transportation providers to support operational requirements.
• Review proposals and negotiate contracts within approved authority levels and budget guidelines.
• Meet with suppliers, customers, and sales representatives to resolve service issues, complaints, and operational concerns.
• Support District Managers and Sales teams by assisting with pricing and customer quotations.

Compliance, Safety & Environmental Stewardship

• Ensure compliance with company policies, EPA regulations, OSHA standards, and other applicable regulatory requirements.
• Conduct facility safety inspections and ensure adherence to established safety programs and protocols.
• Coordinate customer site audits, inspections, and safety seminars.
• Maintain required company, environmental, transportation, and regulatory reports and records.
• Manage hazardous waste activities as required, including:
  • Handling and inspection of hazardous waste and storage areas.
  • Coordinating emergency response activities for hazardous waste spills or incidents.
  • Preparing and maintaining manifests, inspection logs, waste determinations, and related documentation.

Financial & Administrative Oversight

• Review and approve invoices for payment in accordance with company procedures.
• Monitor operational expenses and support budget management efforts.
• Maintain accurate operational and compliance documentation and reporting.

People Leadership

• Lead and develop a team consisting of supervisors, drivers, warehouse personnel, and office staff.
• Recruit, interview, hire, onboard, and train employees.
• Assign work, establish expectations, monitor performance, and conduct performance evaluations.
• Address employee relations matters, coaching opportunities, disciplinary actions, and recognition programs.
• Mentor and develop employees to support performance improvement and career growth.
• Promote a culture of safety, accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Qualifications:

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Operations, Supply Chain, Logistics, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 5+ years of operations, distribution, manufacturing, or logistics experience.
• 2+ years of leadership or supervisory experience.
• Strong communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Ability to interpret business documents, technical procedures, and regulatory requirements.
• Experience promoting safety, compliance, and operational excellence.

Preferred

• Experience in the chemical manufacturing or distribution industry.
• Knowledge of EPA, OSHA, DOT, and hazardous waste regulations.
• Class A CDL.
• Experience with vendor management, contract negotiation, and logistics coordination.
• Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement experience.

Work Environment:

• Work environment includes exposure to outdoor weather conditions and mechanical equipment.
• Occasional exposure to chemicals.
• Noise level is moderate to loud.
• Occasionally work at elevated and heights.

Physical Requirements:

• Physical requirements include lifting and moving various weights up to 100 pounds.
• Physical requirements will also include standing or sitting for long periods of time.
• Visual abilities include close vision, color vision, and depth perception.
• Safely work with hazardous chemicals and use the required PPE.

Why Join Harcros Chemicals?

• Employee-owned company where your contributions drive shared success
• Competitive pay, bonus opportunities, and vehicle/car allowances for eligible roles
• Comprehensive benefits, including multiple medical plan options, disability coverage, AD&D, and life insurance
• Strong retirement benefits with ESOP participation, 401(k) and Roth options, company contributions, and early vesting
• Access to Lyra mental health and wellness resources for employees and dependents starting day one
• Supportive, team-focused culture that values collaboration and growth
• 10 paid holidays, including one floating holiday
• Opportunity to build a meaningful career with a company committed to excellence