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Job Description
Who are we looking for?
We are seeking a proactive and hands-on Assistant Production Manager who is passionate about operational excellence in a specialty chemical manufacturing environment. This individual will support day‑to‑day plant operations, ensure production targets are met safely and efficiently, and act as a key liaison between Production, Quality, EHS, Engineering, and Supply Chain teams. The ideal candidate thrives in a dynamic environment, demonstrates strong leadership presence on the shop floor, and brings a continuous improvement mindset.
What will you be doing?
Production Operations & Execution
- Support the Production Manager in executing the daily/weekly production plan to meet volume, quality, and cost targets.
- Supervise shift operations and ensure adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs), safety protocols, and regulatory requirements.
- Monitor production equipment performance and collaborate with Maintenance/Engineering to minimize downtime.
- Manage raw material usage, batch execution, process controls, and documentation accuracy.
People Leadership & Workforce Management
- Lead, guide, and support production operators/technicians; provide coaching, performance feedback, and daily direction.
- Ensure adequate shift staffing, training, and skill development in alignment with operational needs.
- Promote a strong safety culture through daily interactions, toolbox talks, and visible leadership on the production floor.
Quality, EHS & Compliance
- Partner with Quality and EHS teams to investigate deviations, non‑conformances, and safety incidents, and implement corrective/preventive actions.
- Maintain full compliance with company policies, local regulations, and industry standards for chemical handling and manufacturing.
- Ensure batch and process records meet internal and regulatory documentation standards.
Continuous Improvement & Optimization
- Participate in and lead improvement initiatives including process optimization, waste reduction, and cycle time improvements.
- Use Lean, Six Sigma, or other operational excellence tools to drive measurable improvements.
- Support new product introductions, trials, and scale-up activities in collaboration with R&D and Technical teams.
Who are You?
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Chemistry, or a related technical field.
Experience
- 3–6 years of experience in production, process operations, or manufacturing supervision; experience in specialty chemicals, chemicals, or related industries strongly preferred.
- Prior experience leading shift teams or supervising daily operations in a manufacturing setting.
- Exposure to process safety management (PSM) or similar high‑hazard manufacturing environments is an advantage.
Technical Qualifications
- Strong understanding of batch or continuous chemical manufacturing processes.
- Working knowledge of EHS standards, regulatory requirements, and quality systems (ISO, GMP, or equivalent).
- Proficiency in production reporting systems, SAP or similar ERP systems, and MS Office applications.
What competencies will you need?
Leadership & People Management
- Ability to guide and motivate frontline operators, build trust, and drive accountability.
- Strong communication skills to align diverse teams and ensure clarity in daily operations.
Operational Excellence
- Problem-solving mindset with the ability to analyze data, identify root causes, and implement improvements.
- Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methodologies.
Safety & Quality Mindset
- Demonstrates strong commitment to safety, compliance, and quality in every aspect of production.
- Able to foster a culture of safe behaviors and procedural discipline.
Execution & Decision-Making
- Comfortable making timely decisions in a fast-paced production environment.
- Strong organizational skills to prioritize tasks and manage multiple operational demands.
Collaboration & Stakeholder Management
- Works effectively with cross-functional teams such as Engineering, Maintenance, Supply Chain, QC, and EHS.
- Clear communicator with the ability to convey technical information to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
We are Offering...
As part of our team here, as well as receiving a competitive base salary, you will also participate in a generous performance related bonus scheme. In addition, you will also be covered under our corporate medical insurance plan and annual leaves.
Teamwork
At ESI, you will be part of a highly collaborative culture that promotes continuous improvement through cross-functional partnerships to achieve our mission. We do this through a strong and unified culture and transparent management which has empowered us to create high performing global teams that achieve superior solutions for our customers.