What are the responsibilities and job description for the Helix Operations Manager position at Austin Powder Red Diamond?
Job Summary
The Helix Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing operations within the Red Diamond Helix Plant, with a focus on the safe, compliant, and efficient production of Helix Boosters. This product is used in industrial blasting operations in construction, mining and quarrying. This role supports production, packaging, utilities, and personnel management, while ensuring compliance with safety, environmental, and operational standards. This role reports to the site Red Diamond Plant Manager and will have approximately 5 direct reports. This is a new production facility, and this position will be expected to learn the technology, equipment, procedures and participate in training the team and having a prominent role in commissioning the facility.
Key Responsibilities
Oversee and direct Helix Operation shift supervisors
Conduct daily safety and communication meetings with team.
Complete Management of Change (MOC) for the area.
Conduct Incident Investigation and root cause analysis per site trigger criteria for area.
Conduct performance management and regular one-on-one check-ins with direct reports.
Coordinate time-off requests among the team to ensure safety and adequate coverage.
Review and approve weekly maintenance plan.
Review costs vs. budget and propose annual budget
Update procedures for area as necessary.
Participate in process hazard analyses for area.
Oversee training of all direct reporting personnel.
Report monthly production vs. plan to plant manager.
Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, controls, and process issues.
Collaborate with internal and external resources to apply best practices.
Support Process Safety Management (PSM) activities including Management of Change (MOC) and operating procedures maintenance.
Coordinate planned maintenance schedules with maintenance and engineering functions.
Troubleshoot and optimize PLC and HMI functions by working closely with maintenance and engineering resources.
Monitor and report on area cost center monthly
Propose annual budget based on maintenance and operational costs.
Maintain bill of materials accurately for produced products.
Develop weekly and monthly schedules for production of products
Ensure explosives basis of safety principles are followed at all times.
Maintain excellent housekeeping throughout the production area.
Lead incident investigations and compile detailed reports for the Helix area.
Report on SHES and production KPIs for the Helix Plant.
Drive long-term improvements in safety, efficiency, and operability.
Champion Pre-Startup Safety Reviews and validation process changes.
Maintain process safety documentation (e.g., P&IDs, flow diagrams, mass balances).
Participate in PHAs and conduct risk assessments.
Manage or assist with small to medium capital projects.
Analyze production data.
Develop new methods for data collection and management.
Collaborate with the quality department on lab and product quality needs.
Qualifications
2-yr or 4-yr degree in Mechanical, Chemical or Electrical Engineering preferred
2 – 5 years of progressive leadership roles in a manufacturing environment.
2 years or more experience in a highly automated manufacturing environment, with demonstrated expertise in process optimization and operational efficiency.
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office, Excel (including VBA), PowerPoint, and analytical/statistical tools.
Strong communication skills with the ability to provide constructive feedback.
Ability to work in a manufacturing setting, including climbing stairs and ladders outdoors and indoors.
Up to 10% of travel may be required at times.