Role Overview for Plant Manager (Refining) – Lake Charles, LA
JRG Partners is seeking a highly experienced and visionary Plant Manager for a premier refining facility located in Lake Charles, Louisiana. This is a critical leadership role responsible for the overall strategic direction, operational performance, safety, environmental compliance, and profitability of the plant. The successful candidate will be a seasoned professional with a deep understanding of refining processes, a proven track record in managing complex industrial operations, and an unwavering commitment to safety and operational excellence. This role demands a leader who can inspire and empower a large workforce, drive continuous improvement initiatives, and foster a culture of accountability and high performance.
The Plant Manager will be the ultimate authority on all site operations, including production, maintenance, engineering, quality control, and human resources, ensuring alignment with corporate objectives and industry best practices. They will be instrumental in optimizing production schedules, managing budgets, and implementing cutting-edge technologies to enhance efficiency and reduce operational costs, all while navigating the dynamic landscape of the petrochemical industry.
The Plant Manager will report directly to senior executive leadership and will be responsible for setting the strategic vision for the Lake Charles facility, translating corporate goals into actionable plans, and driving their execution. This position offers a unique opportunity to lead a significant asset within a leading organization, making a tangible impact on its success and contributing to the economic vitality of the region. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional leadership qualities, strong analytical skills, and the ability to make sound decisions under pressure.
They will also be a proactive communicator, capable of engaging effectively with all levels of the organization, external stakeholders, and regulatory bodies. If you are a results-oriented leader with a passion for the refining industry and a commitment to operational excellence, we encourage you to explore this outstanding opportunity.
Key Responsibilities of Plant Manager (Refining) – Lake Charles, LA
Strategic Leadership & Operational Excellence
Develop and execute the plant’s strategic plan, aligning with corporate objectives to achieve production targets, quality standards, and cost efficiencies. Drive continuous improvement initiatives through Lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other methodologies to optimize processes and enhance overall operational performance.
Safety, Health, and Environmental (SHE) Stewardship
Champion a world-class safety culture, ensuring strict adherence to all federal, state, and local safety regulations (OSHA, EPA) and company policies. Implement robust Process Safety Management (PSM) programs and environmental protection strategies to minimize risks and ensure sustainable operations. Lead incident investigations, implement corrective actions, and promote proactive safety behaviors across the entire workforce.
Production & Quality Management
Oversee all aspects of refining production, ensuring efficient scheduling, optimal resource utilization, and consistent product quality that meets or exceeds customer specifications. Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to identify areas for improvement and implement effective solutions to maximize throughput and minimize waste.
Financial & Budgetary Oversight
Manage the plant’s annual operating budget (OPEX) and capital expenditure (CAPEX) plans. Monitor financial performance, identify cost-saving opportunities, and ensure prudent financial management to achieve profitability targets. Provide regular financial reports and forecasts to executive management.
Team Leadership & Talent Development
Lead, mentor, and develop a diverse team of managers, engineers, and operational staff. Foster a positive and engaging work environment that promotes teamwork, professional growth, and accountability. Conduct performance reviews, identify training needs, and implement development plans to build a highly skilled and motivated workforce.
Maintenance & Reliability
Ensure the reliability and integrity of all plant assets through effective preventative maintenance programs, predictive maintenance technologies, and efficient turnaround planning and execution. Minimize unplanned downtime and optimize equipment lifespan to support continuous operations.
Regulatory Compliance & Stakeholder Relations
Ensure full compliance with all applicable industry regulations, permits, and licenses. Act as the primary point of contact for regulatory agencies, community leaders, and other external stakeholders, fostering positive relationships and representing the company’s interests effectively.
Technology & Innovation
Evaluate and implement new technologies and best practices to improve plant efficiency, safety, and environmental performance. Drive digital transformation initiatives where appropriate to enhance data analytics and operational insights.
Crisis Management
Develop and implement robust crisis management plans, ensuring the plant is prepared to respond effectively to emergencies, natural disasters, or operational disruptions, minimizing impact on personnel, environment, and production.
Supply Chain & Logistics Coordination
Collaborate with supply chain and logistics teams to ensure timely delivery of raw materials and efficient dispatch of finished products, optimizing inventory levels and reducing logistical costs.
Requirements for the Plant Manager (Refining) – Lake Charles, LA
Educational Background
Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field is required. A Master’s degree in Engineering or Business Administration (MBA) is highly preferred.
Extensive Industry Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive leadership and management experience within the refining, petrochemical, or heavy process manufacturing industries, with at least 7-10 years in a senior plant management or operations director role.
Technical Expertise
Deep and comprehensive understanding of refining processes, technologies, and equipment (e.g., crude distillation, catalytic cracking, hydrotreating, reforming, alkylation). Strong knowledge of process safety management (PSM) principles and their practical application.
Leadership & Management Acumen
Proven ability to lead and inspire large, diverse teams (500+ employees), demonstrating exceptional strategic thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities. Experience managing unionized workforces is a significant advantage.
Safety & Environmental Commitment
Impeccable track record in driving and sustaining superior safety, health, and environmental performance. Demonstrated expertise in regulatory compliance (OSHA, EPA) and risk management.
Financial Savvy
Strong understanding of P&L management, budgeting, cost control, and capital project management. Ability to analyze financial data and make data-driven decisions.
Communication & Interpersonal Skills
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate complex information to diverse audiences, including executive leadership, employees, and external stakeholders. Strong negotiation and conflict resolution abilities.
Continuous Improvement Mindset
Demonstrated experience in implementing continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma) and driving operational excellence initiatives.
Adaptability & Resilience
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, demanding environment, adapt to changing priorities, and effectively manage multiple complex projects simultaneously.
Location
Must be willing to reside in or relocate to the Lake Charles, LA area.
Benefits & Perks Offered
JRG Partners and our client are committed to attracting and retaining top-tier talent. We offer a highly competitive compensation package commensurate with experience, including a robust base salary, performance-based bonuses, and long-term incentives.
Comprehensive benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance plans, a generous 401(k) retirement plan with company match, and ample paid time off, including holidays and vacation.
Employees will also benefit from opportunities for professional development, ongoing training, and career advancement within a leading global organization.
Relocation assistance will be provided for qualified candidates. This role provides an opportunity to work within a dynamic and challenging environment, contributing significantly to the success and growth of a major refining operation.
How to Apply
If you are a highly accomplished and strategic Plant Manager with a passion for the refining industry and a commitment to operational excellence, we invite you to apply. This is a unique opportunity to make a significant impact within a leading organization. Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications and experience directly through this platform.
For more information on how JRG Partners can help advance your career in the manufacturing and operations sector, please visit our Manufacturing & Operations Practice Area page. We look forward to hearing from you.
