Director, Pilot Plant Manufacturing
On-siteMemphis, Tennessee, United States
Job Summary
Lead pilot plant operations to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient execution of development and production campaigns, prioritizing trials, experiments, and equipment reliability projects. Translate laboratory chemistries into manufacturing-ready processes by leading scale-up planning, mass and energy balances, and technology transfer to commercial sites. Ensure full compliance with OSHA, EPA, and PSM requirements while driving Lean and Six Sigma initiatives to improve yield, safety, and cost performance. Manage operating procedures, P&IDs, and document control standards across the pilot plant. This strategic role bridges Research & Development and Manufacturing for Buckman's specialty chemical division, focusing on process scale-up and commercialization support within the pulp, paper, leather, and water treatment sectors.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering
- 10+ years of experience leading pilot plant, chemical manufacturing, or process development operations
- 5+ years of people leadership experience within a manufacturing or technical environment
- Proven experience in process scale-up, commercialization, and technology transfer
- Experience with specialty chemicals, industrial chemicals, or related manufacturing industries
- Strong understanding of process safety management, hazard analysis, and regulatory compliance
- Fundamental understanding of regulatory space, particularly FIFRA, TSCA, and RCRA
- Travel: up to 10%
- Location: Memphis, TN
Desired Qualifications
- Chemistry degree considered with significant manufacturing and process engineering experience
- Lean Six Sigma / Design for Six Sigma background
- Financial acumen (MBA degree)
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