Operations Manager – Used Oil Refinery & Wastewater Treatment presso Patriot Environmental Services, Inc.

Crystal Clean, a leader in the environmental services industry, is seeking a self-motivated leader to join our Used Oil Refinery in Plant City, FL.

Purpose

The Operations Manager for the Plant City Facility is responsible for always conducting work in a safe manner. They manage the operations department, which includes the Wastewater Treatment facility, Refinery and buildings.

They must be proficient in, and ready to support, all areas of the department requiring critical leadership. This includes, but is not limited to, having a sound knowledge of product types, departmental rules, PSM, safety, environmental, quality, and technical skills related to plant equipment and processes.

The manager is responsible for ensuring all operators are trained and qualified, continually updating training materials, procedures, and enhancing operator knowledge through structured development programs.

The Operations Department includes 8 operators on rotating shifts, material handlers, and one supervisor. Schedule: 40+ hours, salaried.

Responsibilities & Duties

Operations & Safety

• Ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations.
• Oversee daily oil operations, production, and maintenance activities.
• Conduct risk assessments and implement mitigation strategies.
• Lead the startup and shutdown of process units and utilities.
• Ensure proper functionality and maintenance of infrastructure and equipment.
• Maintain inventory of critical equipment.
• Respond to emergencies and coordinate emergency response activities.
• Maintain safe work practices and ensure housekeeping standards in all areas.

Team Leadership & Training

• Direct supervision and training of operators and staff.
• Monitor attendance and punctuality; provide coaching to support accountability and team cohesion.
• Use resources to develop training and procedures when changes occur.
• Hold Shift Lead meetings and maintain shift handover integrity.
• Review shift documentation, logs, and inventories for accuracy and completeness.

Process Improvement & Compliance

• Develop, monitor, and implement operational strategies for performance and efficiency.
• Collaborate with other departments and stakeholders on projects.
• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance operational efficiency.
• Audit work permitting systems (Hot Work, Permit to Work, Confined Space, LOTO).
• Maintain and standardize energy control and operating procedures, and blind list.
• Maintain master control documents in SharePoint, including redlined P&IDs.
• Reporting and development of KPIs for the Operations Department.

Administrative

• Prepare and manage budgets for operations.
• Payroll, scheduling, and ordering department-related supplies.
• Attend meetings as required and provide updates on respective areas.
• Model exemplary behavior aligned with business and ethical standards.
• Work overtime as required to meet production and maintenance schedules.
• Adhere to all corporate policies and standards, including environmental, regulatory, HR, facility, equipment, and maintenance.

Qualifications & Skills

Leadership & Management

• Strong leadership and team management abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Ability to work well under pressure and handle emergencies.

Technical

• 3–5 years of experience in refinery, hot oil plants, etc.
• 1–3 years of experience in wastewater treatment.
• Strong understanding of oil utility systems and infrastructure.
• Proficient in process operations, including rotating equipment and fired heaters.
• Experience with boilers, cooling towers, exchangers, and bulk liquid transfer.
• Proficiency with HMIs.

Knowledge & Compliance

• Familiarity with regulatory requirements and safety standards.
• Ability to conduct risk assessments and implement safety protocols.
• Experience with vendor and subcontractor management.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Excel, Teams, and OneNote

Personal Attributes

• Attention to detail.
• Positive, team-oriented attitude.
• Safe working experience.

Education & Certifications

High School Diploma or equivalent required.
Vocational or technical training strongly preferred.
Experience in a chemical processing environment is a plus.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Steel-toe boots
• Safety glasses
• Hard hat

Benefits

• Medical and Dental
• 401(k)
• Paid time off
• Short-term disability
• Life and accident insurance
• Advancement opportunities