Plant Manager

Description

TerraCycle Overview 

TerraCycle is an international leader in innovative sustainability solutions, creating and operating first-of-their-kind platforms in recycling, recycled materials, and reuse.  

Operating in 20 countries, including 12 in Europe, TerraCycle works with manufacturers, retailers and end users to implement turnkey recycling programs through a range of public-facing services for hundreds of everyday waste streams that other waste management companies are unable to recycle.

In 2019, TerraCycle introduced Loop - a platform that allows brands, retailers and consumers to move from a disposable to durable supply chain, enabling consumers to responsibly shop for a wide variety of commonly used products in reusable packaging. Since its debut, Loop has developed into the leading global reuse platform and is available in France, the United States and Japan.

TerraCycle and Loop have received hundreds of awards and recognitions and have been highlighted in some of the world's most recognized media outlets, including CNN, Wall St. Journal, Reuters.com, New York Times, Forbes, Time, and thousands of others.

Job Overview

The Plant Manager is an experienced and highly motived operations professional who oversees our Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) in Aurora, IL. The ideal candidate will oversee the day-to-day operations of our recycling facility, ensuring the efficient sorting, processing, and recovery of recyclable materials. This position is responsible for managing production teams, optimizing facility processes, ensuring adherence to health and safety regulations, and driving continuous improvement initiatives to enhance performance and sustainability.

Primary Responsibilities

Supervise Production Operations

• Oversee the sorting and processing of recyclable materials to meet quality, productivity, and environmental goals.
• Monitor production and fulfillment lines to ensure efficient and accurate operation, ensuring minimal downtime and maximum throughput.
• Coordinate the processing of various materials including paper, plastics, metals, glass, and textiles.

Materials Handling

• Overseeing inbound deliveries and outbound shipments and the associated processes to verify and document the materials coming in and shipping out
• Ensuring regular turnover of materials to increase warehouse capacity

Team Leadership and Development

• Lead, train, and motivate production staff, including operators, sorters, and machine technicians.
• Ensure that all employees adhere to company policies, safety standards, and environmental practices.
• Conduct regular performance evaluations and provide feedback to staff to promote skill development and high morale.

Quality Control & Compliance

• Implement and maintain quality control measures to ensure materials are properly sorted and meet industry standards.
• Ensure the facility operates in compliance with local, state, and federal regulations concerning environmental, health, and safety standards.
• Track and analyze key performance metrics (e.g., throughput, recovery rates, contamination levels) and implement corrective actions as necessary.

Safety and Environmental Management

• Promote a culture of safety within the facility and ensure compliance with all safety protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Conduct regular safety audits, risk assessments, and emergency response drills.
• Ensure the facility adheres to environmental regulations and supports sustainability initiatives in the recycling process.

Equipment and Facility Maintenance

• Work closely with maintenance teams to ensure machinery and equipment are properly maintained and functioning efficiently.
• Schedule and coordinate maintenance activities to minimize downtime and ensure production goals are met.
• Oversee inventory of spare parts and supplies and ensure necessary equipment is available for operations.

Continuous Improvement

• Analyze production data and trends to identify areas for improvement and implement process optimization strategies.
• Drive the implementation of lean manufacturing and Six Sigma practices to improve operational efficiency.
• Work with other departments to streamline operations and support overall facility goals.

Reporting and Documentation

• Prepare and submit regular reports on production performance, operational challenges, and material recovery rates.
• Maintain accurate records of production activities, safety incidents, equipment maintenance, and compliance audits.

Requirements

Desired Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• At least 5 years of experience in a production or operations management role within a recycling, waste management, or manufacturing environment.
• Previous experience managing operations in a MRF (Materials Recovery Facility) or a similar waste processing environment is highly desirable.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• General understanding of recycling processes, equipment, and safety standards.
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing, process optimization, and quality control techniques.
• Proficiency in MS Office and production management software (e.g., ERP systems, MRP, or similar tools).
• Ability to communicate effectively in Spanish is highly desirable.
• Certification in Environmental Management or Health & Safety (e.g., OSHA, Lean Six Sigma) is a plus.
• Forklift certified
• Able to walk and stand up to eight hours per day
• Able to occasionally lift up to 50 pounds.
• Willingness to work in varying weather conditions and maintain flexible work hours, including overtime if needed.

Compensation

• Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, AD&D insurance available after 30 days
• 401(k) plan with company match available after 30 days
• Employee Assistance Program
• 22 PTO 2 VTO 9 paid holidays per year

TerraCycle requires all employees to provide proof that they have been fully vaccinated against the COVID-19 virus, or have a valid religious or medical reason for being exempt.

TerraCycle is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to  Diversity, Equality and Inclusion. 

Note: International candidates must be eligible to work in their country of employment.  At this time TerraCycle does not provide for visa sponsorships.

Job description is not all inclusive. TerraCycle reserves the right to amend this job description at any time.