Distillation Process Manager

Distillation Process Manager

Who are we?

A-Gas is the global expert in the supply and full life-cycle management of specialty chemicals and gases, providing refrigerants, blowing agents, fire protection agents, and carbon credit offsets to our customers around the world. With industry-leading recovery, reclamation, and gas processing technologies, A-Gas continues to lead the industry in developing cutting-edge solutions designed to protect the environment. For more information on the A-Gas environmental journey go to our website at .

Summary

As the Distillation Process Manager at A-Gas, you will be responsible for overseeing and managing the safe and efficient distillation operations. This includes the various support processes around ISO tank management, HP/LP reclaim operations, supporting equipment processes with ISO purge and decant rigs, NCG units, dryer regen station, pumps, compressors, vacuum pumps and all elements of the distillation units. Your primary duties include leading and directing the distillation team, ensuring safe and efficient production operations, striving towards zero emissions, and maintaining compliance with industry regulations, group governance standards and local SOP's and work instruction. Key responsibilities encompass:

Leadership & Management:

• Team Leadership: Lead the distillation team with a focus on creating a safe, motivated, and engaged work environment. Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and collaboration within the team.
• Training & Development: Develop and implement training programs that ensure all team members are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge. Regularly assess training needs and update programs as required.
• Scheduling & Resource Allocation: Develop and manage daily, weekly, and monthly schedules for staff and equipment to meet forecasted production targets and inventory goals. Optimize resource allocation to ensure maximum efficiency and productivity.
• Performance Management: Conduct regular performance reviews, set clear objectives, and provide ongoing feedback to team members. Address performance issues promptly and support career development through coaching and mentoring.

Operational Excellence:

• Process Management: Oversee the entire distillation process, ensuring all operations are executed efficiently and within defined parameters. This includes the management of ISO tank management, HP/LP reclaim operations, and other related equipment such as ISO purge and decant rigs, NCG units, dryer regen stations, pumps, compressors, and vacuum pumps.
• Optimization: Work closely with BE partners and local action teams to continuously monitor and optimize equipment performance. Use data-driven approaches to identify areas for improvement, aiming to maximize output while minimizing costs and waste.
• Capacity Planning: Ensure that the distillation unit operates at its rated capacity by analyzing production data, forecasting demand, and adjusting operations accordingly. Implement strategies to balance production loads and prevent bottlenecks.

Safety & Compliance:

• Safety Leadership: Serve as the primary safety advocate within the distillation unit, promoting a culture where safety is the top priority. Ensure all team members are trained in and adhere to safety protocols and procedures.
• Regulatory Compliance: Maintain strict compliance with industry regulations, including GMP guidelines, ISO 9001 & 14001 standards, and local environmental regulations. Regularly review and update SOPs and work instructions to reflect any changes in regulations or company policies.
• Environmental Stewardship: Strive towards zero emissions by implementing best practices in environmental protection and waste management. Monitor and report on environmental performance, taking corrective actions when necessary.

Quality Assurance:

• Quality Control: Ensure that all products meet or exceed regulatory, customer, and company quality standards. This includes overseeing quality control processes, from raw material inspection to final product testing.
• Documentation & Reporting: Maintain accurate and comprehensive records of quality assurance activities. Ensure all quality-related documentation is complete, up-to-date, and easily accessible for audits or inspections.
• Nonconformity Management: Lead efforts to identify, document, and resolve nonconformities using root cause analysis (RCA). Implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence and continuously improve product quality.

Training & Development:

• Onboarding: Develop and execute a comprehensive onboarding program for new operators, ensuring they are fully trained in all aspects of the distillation process, safety protocols, and company policies.
• Ongoing Education: Regularly update training materials and provide ongoing education opportunities for all team members. This includes keeping the team informed about new technologies, processes, and regulatory changes.
• Competency Assessment: Continuously assess the competency of team members, identifying areas where additional training or support may be needed. Implement development plans to address skill gaps.

Maintenance & Troubleshooting:

• Preventive Maintenance: Implement and oversee a preventive maintenance program for all distillation equipment. Conduct routine inspections to identify potential issues before they lead to downtime or reduced efficiency.
• Troubleshooting: Quickly and effectively troubleshoot equipment malfunctions or process deviations. Work with maintenance teams to resolve issues, minimize downtime, and restore operations to optimal conditions.
• Continuous Monitoring: Utilize real-time monitoring tools to track equipment performance and identify anomalies. Take proactive measures to address any issues that could impact safety, quality, or productivity.

Continuous Improvement:

• Lean Manufacturing: Lead the implementation of lean manufacturing practices within the distillation unit, focusing on waste reduction, efficiency gains, and cost savings. Utilize tools such as 5S, Kaizen, and Six Sigma to drive continuous improvement.
• KPI Management: Develop and maintain KPI Visual Management boards to track key performance indicators related to production, safety, quality, and efficiency. Use these KPIs to identify trends, set targets, and measure progress.
• Process Innovation: Regularly review and assess current production methods, seeking opportunities to introduce new technologies, processes, or practices that can improve efficiency, reduce waste, or enhance product quality.

Communication & Collaboration:

• Cross-Departmental Collaboration: Work closely with other departments, such as production planning, maintenance, quality assurance, and logistics, to ensure seamless operations and the timely delivery of products to customers.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Act as the primary point of contact for the distillation unit, communicating regularly with senior management, external auditors, and other stakeholders. Provide updates on production performance, safety initiatives, and continuous improvement projects.
• Operational Meetings: Participate in and contribute to cross-departmental meetings, where operational challenges, shared objectives, and strategic initiatives are discussed. Provide input and feedback to ensure alignment and collaboration across the organization.

Qualifications:

• Required:
  • 4-Year bachelor's degree in engineering or Process Technologies; equivalent industry-related experience may be considered.
  • EPA 608 Certification (must be obtained within 6 months of employment).
  • Valid Driver's License.
• Preferred:
  • Certification in Process Operations or equivalent experience.
  • Previous experience in the chemical manufacturing or specialty gas industry.

Physical Demand Requirements:

• General Fitness:
  • Capable of handling, moving, and lifting at least 50 pounds; ability to stand and walk for the majority of the workday.
• Mobility:
  • Ability to move and position large cylinders up to 200 pounds using appropriate equipment.
• Dexterity & Visual Acuity:
  • Good hand-eye coordination for operating equipment and performing computer tasks.
• Equipment Operation:
  • Experience driving forklifts and other motorized vehicles within the plant.

Why A-Gas?

A-Gas offers competitive pay, generous benefits including medical, dental, vision, paid holidays, paid time off (PTO), a 401(k), company-paid short-term & long-term disability, life insurance, training initiatives, professional certifications, and tuition reimbursement program. It is an exciting time to be a part of A-Gas, Come grow with us!

We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.