Operations Unit Manager

Kelly Engineering is seeking a DIRECT HIRE - Unit Operations Manager to join one of our leading clients in the Chemical Manufacturing industry at their Georgetown, SC location.

Please apply to learn more!

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or related technical field strongly preferred (equivalent experience considered).
• 5+ years of hands-on experience in industrial chemical manufacturing; prior leadership or supervisory experience highly desired.
• In-depth knowledge of chemical processing equipment and utilities (reactors, dryers, conveyors, hot oil systems, chillers, cryogenic systems, heat exchangers, etc.).

• Lead daily operations of a chemical manufacturing unit with full accountability for production volume, team performance, and product quality.
• Directly manage a team of 20+ operators and technicians in a fast-paced batch production environment producing powder thickeners.
• Ensure consistent compliance with ISO 9001, internal quality systems, and customer specifications.
• Oversee and optimize hands-on operate reactors, dryers, hoppers, conveying systems, packaging lines, and utility systems (hot oil, chillers, cryogenic units, heat exchangers).
• Drive process optimization using SPC, SQC, and Gantt-based production tracking.
• Lead root-cause investigations and corrective/preventive actions (OOS, CAPA, and deviation events).
• Champion continuous improvement initiatives in efficiency, cost reduction, yield, and 5S/housekeeping standards.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Quality Assurance, Engineering, EHS, R&D/Technology, Logistics, and Maintenance teams.
• Actively participate in Management of Change (MOC), HAZOP studies, and plant safety programs.
• Develop team members through training, performance evaluations, and accountability measures.

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or related technical field strongly preferred (equivalent experience considered).
• 5+ years of hands-on experience in industrial chemical manufacturing; prior leadership or supervisory experience highly desired.
• In-depth knowledge of chemical processing equipment and utilities (reactors, dryers, conveyors, hot oil systems, chillers, cryogenic systems, heat exchangers, etc.).
• Proven track record with ISO 9001 quality systems and regulatory compliance (OSHA, EPA, etc.).
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams, troubleshoot in real time, and deliver results in a high-output manufacturing setting.
• Experience with process optimization tools (SPC/SQC), preventive maintenance programs, and cross-functional collaboration.

• Full-time onsite role at our chemical manufacturing campus in Georgetown, South Carolina (Beautiful coastal location between Charleston and Myrtle Beach)
• On-call availability required to support 24/7 production needs