Operations Manager

Job Description

Hydro Extrusions is a world‑leading aluminium extrusion business counting around 100 production sites in 40 countries and employing 20,000 people. Through our unique combination of local expertise, global network, and unmatched R&D capabilities, we can offer everything from standards profiles to advanced development and manufacturing for most industries. Since 1905, Hydro has turned natural resources into valuable products for people and businesses with focus on a safe and good workplace for our 20,000 employees in more than 140 locations.

What we offer you

• Retirement Savings Plans with Company Match/Contributions


• Education Assistance


• Bonus Plan Eligibility


• Parental Leave

Job Summary:

The Operations Manager will have direct management responsibility for the Extrusion Department and will progressively expand their scope to include additional departments. They will work closely with the Plant Manager and lead the Extrusion Supervisors in developing and executing strategic improvement plans, while ensuring the safety, engagement, and well‑being of all employees.

In this role, the Operations Manager will also support the Plant Manager in developing, coaching, and guiding members of the plant leadership team to drive optimal plant performance. This position offers exposure to both short‑ and long‑term strategic leadership development opportunities.

Required Education/Experience:

• A minimum of 5 years’ leadership experience in unionized manufacturing settings


• A degree in Industrial Engineering or Business, or a minimum of 10 years’ related experience and training

Preferred Skills/Qualifications:

• Over 5 years of experience demonstrating practical problem‑solving skills and the ability to manage a variety of variables in environments with limited standardisation.


• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to assess a variety of production methods to support and direct improvement and training initiatives.


• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.


• Knowledge of ISO/QS standards.


• Demonstrated ability to read, analyse, and interpret business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, and governmental regulations.


• Proven ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from managers, clients, customers, and the general public, and to prepare written reports, business correspondence, and procedures.


• Proven experience working with mathematical concepts such as probability, statistical inference, and fundamentals of plane and solid geometry and trigonometry.

What you will be doing

• Contribute to the establishment of short‑ and long‑term objectives while ensuring compliance with organisational policies, procedures, and standards.


• Provide strong Health, Safety & Environment (HSE) leadership to maintain a safe, compliant, and high‑performing work environment.


• Oversee daily manufacturing operations (Manufacturing, Packing, Finishing, Production Control, Engineering, and Maintenance) in partnership with the Plant Manager.


• Be accountable for overall Extrusion Department performance, including productivity, labour costs, recovery, press results, equipment performance, and quality outcomes.


• Lead workforce planning, staffing, talent development, training, and performance management to optimise operational effectiveness.


• Collaborate closely with Sales, Production, Engineering, and Maintenance teams on production planning, customer concerns, and operational alignment.


• Oversee and contribute to Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) negotiations, ensuring alignment with organisational objectives and effective labour relations.


• Drive continuous improvement, problem‑solving initiatives, cost control, and regulatory compliance within departmental budget parameters.

Hydro in North America is an Equal Opportunity Employer where all phases of employment are based strictly upon the qualifications of the individual as related to the work requirements of the position. This policy is applied without regard to race, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, veteran status, marital status or any other category protected by law.

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About Hydro

• Hydro is a leading aluminium and renewable energy company committed to a sustainable future


• Founded: 1905


• Number of employees: 32,000


• Company presence in around 40 countries worldwide


• President and CEO: Eivind Kallevik