Operations Manager

The Operations Manager is responsible for the daily operation and performance of a small-scale wood-fired biomass power plant. This role combines leadership and hands‑on operational oversight to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient generation of renewable energy. The Operations Manager works closely with the Plant Manager, Maintenance team, and fuel suppliers to manage plant performance, optimize fuel usage, and maintain compliance with environmental and safety standards.

• Oversee day‑to‑day operation of the plant and operation personnel including control room operators and steam plant operators.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for shift operators, providing direction and technical support.
• Monitor plant performance metrics and troubleshoot operational issues to minimize downtime.
• Manage fuel receiving, handling, and inventory to ensure consistent wood supply and quality.
• Adjust operating parameters to maintain efficiency, output, and environmental compliance.

• Work alongside operators as needed to support startup, shutdown, and maintenance activities.
• Train and develop operators in safe work practices and plant procedures.
• Support cross‑training and scheduling of the 5‑shift rotation of operations manpower to ensure coverage of employees' PTO usage.
• Foster a collaborative work environment emphasizing safety, accountability, and teamwork.

• Partner with the Maintenance Supervisor to schedule preventive maintenance and repairs.
• Participate in troubleshooting equipment issues and coordinate vendor support when necessary.
• Maintain accurate records in the plant’s CMMS for work orders, inspections, and operational logs.
• Assist with planning and execution of annual outages and improvement projects.

• Enforce plant safety procedures and ensure compliance with OSHA and Vermont environmental regulations.
• Conduct safety meetings, drills, and incident reviews.
• Maintain records for environmental permits, emissions, and water quality reporting.

• Contribute to fuel cost tracking, operating budget inputs, and inventory management.
• Support preparation of operational and regulatory reports for management and agencies.
• Recommend process and equipment improvements to enhance efficiency and reliability.