Biopolymer Plant Production Manager

Production Manager - Manufacturing Operations (Blair, Nebraska)

About Us

At NatureWorks, we're reimagining plastics for a sustainable future. As the world's leading producer of Ingeo PLA biopolymers-made from renewable resources and designed to be compostable and microplastic-free-we help global brands deliver next-generation materials for packaging and consumer goods. Jointly owned by Cargill and PTT Global Chemical, we combine global scale with a deep commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship.

You'll join a fast-paced manufacturing environment where people development, collaboration, and operational excellence are key. If you're passionate about growing teams, improving processes, and making meaningful impact every day, this is the opportunity for you.

About the Role:

Reporting directly to the Director of Manufacturing, this role is responsible for all aspects of day-to-day production and operations staffing at our chemical processing facility in Blair, Nebraska. You will directly and indirectly lead warehouse employees, production technicians, supervisors, operational leads, and plant engineers while working closely with the quality, supply chain, and maintenance functions to optimize plant performance.

What You'll Do

Operational Oversight

• Manage all aspects of plant operations to meet production goals efficiently and safely.
• Plan and coordinate production schedules, including specialty campaigns, in line with demand and material availability.
• Work closely with maintenance, procurement, and logistics to minimize downtime and ensure operational flow.
• Monitor raw material and finished goods inventories and align with supply chain partners.

Safety & Compliance

• Lead safety programs, policies, and training aligned with regulatory and company standards.
• Investigate incidents, implement corrective actions, and ensure ongoing regulatory compliance.
• Maintain all required safety and environmental documentation.

Performance & Continuous Improvement

• Track KPIs related to output, efficiency, reliability, and yield.
• Lead plant improvement initiatives, cost-saving efforts, and capital projects.
• Manage budgets and long-term planning aligned with strategic objectives.

Quality & Standards

• Ensure products meet internal specs and customer expectations.
• Collaborate with Quality team on issue resolution and system audits.
• Support food safety and regulatory compliance efforts.

Team Leadership

• Build and guide a high-performing operations team.
• Set goals, manage performance, and develop talent aligned with company culture.
• Drive collaboration across teams and support change management initiatives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical, Mechanical, or Industrial Engineering preferred.
• 7+ years in plant operations or manufacturing leadership, ideally in chemicals or polymers.
• Demonstrated high level technical skills related to mechanical equipment and processing systems.
• Proven ability to lead teams, drive safety compliance, and manage complex operations.
• Strong communication, analytical, and decision-making skills.
• ERP experience (SAP preferred); comfort with manufacturing systems and data tools.

Why NatureWorks?

• Purpose-driven: We're creating materials that compete with oil-based plastics - and win.
• Innovative Environment: Be part of a team that values innovation and continuous improvement.
• Diverse & Inclusive: We value all backgrounds and experiences.

Compensation & Benefits

• Pay Range: $165,000 to $180,000 with 13% annual bonus potential
• 4 weeks of vacation, plus 3 floating holidays and 9 paid company holidays
• 6 days of family sick time
• 401(k) plan with 5.5% automatic contribution and 50% match on the first 6%
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Fully paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
• Benefits eligibility begins on Day 1