Job Description

Our client is a dynamic start-up venturing into the oil upgrading sector with a new, small-scale plant located in the west of central Alberta, Canada utilizing their proprietary technology that converts bitumen and heavy oils into pipeline-ready commercial oil without diluents.

After commissioning their pilot plant with successful results, our client is seeking to continue driving growth to expand production. Upon successful completion, there are expectations to bring six additional plants online.

We are seeking an experienced, Plant Manager to lead our operations team and play a critical role in getting our plant up and running, then managing its day-to-day operations. This person needs to be a very proactive and efficient self-starter able to be highly productive in an independent work environment. This is a ground-floor opportunity to play a pivotal role in establishing and growing a successful operation.

Responsibilities:

Operational Management:

• Hands-on daily operations of the oil upgrading facility
• Keep budget control
• Establish and implement operational procedures and safety protocols
• Develop emergency response and contingency plans
• Manage production schedules and optimization
• Coordinate with Process Accountant (PA)
• Coordinate initiatives and activities with oil marketer
• Oversee oil receipt, testing, dispatching, all related paperwork and volume accounting
• Oversee volume control, accounting of process water and oil/related waste to be delivered to third parties
• Establish quality control systems and procedures
• Monitor and maintain product quality specifications
• Create and oversee maintenance programs and schedules
• Anticipate and oversee the procurement of necessary supplies and materials
• Manage all logistics, including transportation and storage of raw materials and finished products.

Safety and Environmental Compliance

• Establish and enforce rigorous safety protocols and procedures.
• Conduct regular safety inspections and training programs.
• Ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements and environmental standards and maintain accurate records

Maintenance

• Develop and implement a preventative maintenance program to ensure equipment reliability and minimize downtime.
• Manage maintenance activities, including repairs, replacements, and upgrades.
• Continuous Improvement
• Implement process optimizations and innovative technologies
• Monitor industry trends to enhance competitiveness

Personnel Management:

• As the business grows, recruit, train, and develop facility staff
• Create work schedules and manage shift rotations
• Conduct performance evaluations
• Foster a positive work culture emphasizing safety and efficiency
• Ensure adequate staffing levels and coverage

Administrative Duties

• Generate and analyze performance reports
• Maintain accurate documentation for regulatory compliance
• Coordinate with corporate office on strategic initiatives
• Manage relationships with key stakeholders and local authorities
• Comply with requested administrative and reporting requirements from management

Candidate profile

Essential Skill Set, Education/Qualification, Certification Attainment Background:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field
• Minimum 10 years of experience in oil and gas processing operations
• Proven experience in oil processing plant management
• Experience with Canadian environmental and safety regulations
• Independent, proactive self-starter
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills
• Strong communication skills (written and verbal)
• Proficiency in process control systems and relevant software
• Crisis management and emergency response experience
• Budget management and cost control expertise
• Ability to work independently in remote locations
• Physical capability to access all areas of the plant
• Valid driver's license and ability to operate required vehicles
• Extensive experience within heavy oils/surface oils

Unique Selling Points:

• Actively seek to promote from within
• 6 additional plants scheduled to come online within the next few years. This individual will have the opportunity to be first in line to oversee these operations and
• Rotational work schedule to ensure work-life balance: One week on-site, one week remote
• Exposure to major operators serving as lead with upcoming joint ventures.

Culture:

• Entrepreneurial and growth-oriented, with a strong focus on innovation and expansion. The team is technically driven, valuing deep expertise in heavy oil production and a practical, hands-on approach.
• Integrity and transparency are key values, with honesty and openness highly regarded. The environment is respectful and people-focused, emphasizing the importance of treating people with respect. There is a long-term vision for the business, with a focus on mentorship and leadership development. The company prefers professionals who have field experience and a results-driven mindset. Additionally, it takes a strategic and future-focused approach, using joint ventures as steppingstones for further growth.

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