Operations Manager

The Operations Manager is responsible for the overall leadership, coordination, and performance of the Harrisburg manufacturing plant. This role ensures all operational activities meet or exceed company expectations in Safety, Quality, Throughput, Cost Control, Project Delivery, Preventative Maintenance, Employee Development, and Workplace Organization.

The Operations Manager provides strategic and hands‑on oversight of production, yard operations, receiving, materials management, full facility maintenance, and scheduling. This includes managing supervisors and plant personnel, fostering a high‑performing culture, and ensuring the plant operates safely, efficiently, and in alignment with company goals.

• Provide daily leadership to production, yard, and plant operations teams to achieve safety, quality, cost, and delivery goals.
• Ensure a safe work environment by championing safety culture, enforcing safety policies, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives.
• Oversee production planning, resource allocation, and workflow to meet customer demand and optimize plant capabilities.
• Maintain a high level of housekeeping and 5S throughout the plant.

• Partner with HR, Engineering, Project Management, Procurement, Accounting, and Transportation to support operational needs and maintain efficient processes.
• Lead plant‑level communication, ensuring alignment across teams and with company leadership.

• Direct, coach, and mentor supervisors and frontline employees; maintain accountability and develop talent within the plant.
• Conduct employee evaluations, provide training, and make recommendations regarding hiring, advancement, and performance management.
• Promote teamwork, engagement, and continuous improvement at all levels.

• Ensure compliance with company quality standards, customer specifications, and industry regulations.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean principles, root‑cause analysis, and KPI tracking.
• Review and interpret engineering/shop drawings and ensure they are executed accurately on the floor.

• Oversee plant and equipment maintenance programs to reduce downtime and extend asset life.
• Ensure inspections, repairs, and preventative maintenance schedules are executed effectively.

• Associate or bachelor’s degree strongly preferred.
• Minimum 7 years of experience in manufacturing, construction materials, or a related industrial environment.
• 3+ years of supervisory or management experience in operations, production, or plant leadership roles.

• Strong working knowledge of OSHA General Industry Standards.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering/shop drawings.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).
• Knowledge of industrial equipment, plant operations, and basic maintenance principles.
• Lean Six Sigma Management training and experience preferred.

• Excellent communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong problem‑solving, organizational, and decision‑making abilities.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple operational priorities.

• Position is located at the Harrisburg, Oregon manufacturing facility.
• Some overtime or extended hours may be required based on production needs.
• Competitive compensation and benefits available.

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
• Health Savings & Flexible Spending Accounts
• 401K with Company Match
• Profit Sharing
• 8 Paid Holidays
• Paid Time Off
• Life Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Years of Service Recognition

To be considered for this position, candidates must complete and submit an employment application at  by the posting deadline noted above. If unable to complete an application online you may print and send completed application to any Knife River NW address or stop in one of our locations to complete an application. Knife River is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status or any other protected category under applicable state/federal law.

If you are an individual with a qualified disability as defined by federal, state, or local law and require a reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the application for any reason, please contact your state employment agency or you may call  to speak with a human resources representative.

Subject to pre‑employment drug testing and background check.