Operations Manager - Mulch & Compost

Operations Manager - Mulch & Compost Confidential Arnold, MO 63010

Full-time Full-time Job Title:

Operations Manager - Mulch & Compost Facility Position Summary The Operations Manager oversees all daily activities of a mulch and compost production facilities, including grinding, screening, composting, and material logistics. This role is responsible for managing personnel, equipment, production flow, and site conditions to ensure safe, efficient operations and high-quality finished products. Key Responsibilities Operations & Production Manage daily operations including inbound material receiving, grinding, stockpiling, composting, screening, coloring (if applicable), and loadout Coordinate production schedules for mulch, soil and compost products based on demand and inventory levels Monitor feedstock (brush, logs, yard waste, organics) and ensure proper blending and processing Oversee tub grinders, horizontal grinders, trommel screens, and stacking/loading operations Maintain clean, organized yard layout for efficient material flow Team Leadership Supervise operators, laborers, and drivers Assign daily workloads and manage shift schedules Train staff on equipment operation, safety procedures, and production standards Hold team accountable for productivity, housekeeping, and safety Equipment & Maintenance Coordinate preventative maintenance and repairs for grinders, screeners, loaders, and support equipment Work closely with mechanics to minimize downtime Ensure operators perform daily inspections, basic maintenance, cleaning and housekeeping Environmental Compliance Maintain compliance with local, state, and federal regulations related to composting and wood waste processing Manage stormwater, leachate, dust, and odor control measures Ensure proper stockpile management to prevent fire risks and runoff issues Maintain required logs and documentation Work with Safety & Compliance Department on inspections and reporting Health & Safety Enforce safety policies and OSHA compliance Lead safety meetings and conduct site inspections Investigate incidents and implement corrective actions Quality Control Monitor compost process (temperature, moisture, turning frequency) Ensure mulch sizing, grind consistency, and finished product quality meet specifications Adjust processes based on weather, feedstock, and production goals Logistics & Customer Coordination Coordinate inbound deliveries and outbound shipments Work with dispatch, customers, and haulers to ensure smooth scheduling Manage inventory levels of raw materials and finished products

Qualifications Required:

3+ years of operations or site management experience Experience managing crews and heavy equipment operations Strong understanding of heavy equipment and material handling Knowledge of safety practices and regulatory compliance Ability to work well with customers and deal with customer concerns

Preferred:

Experience with tub or horizontal grinders and trommel/star screens Familiarity with composting processes and biology Experience managing large outdoor industrial yards Key Skills Leadership in a hands-on, outdoor environment Strong operational planning and problem-solving Mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting Ability to manage multiple production streams (mulch, soil and compost) Communication and team coordination Work Environment Outdoor, year-round operation in varying weather conditions Exposure to dust, noise, and heavy equipment Fast-paced production environment with seasonal demand swings Compensation & Benefits Competitive salary + performance bonus (production/efficiency-based) Company vehicle or allowance Health, dental, vision 401(k)

PTO Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching AD&D insurance Dental insurance Disability insurance Employee discount Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Professional development assistance Retirement plan Safety equipment provided Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person