Descripción de la oferta
About CatalyxxObtenga más información sobre este puesto leyendo los detalles a continuación y luego envíe su solicitud para ser considerado.
We are a proven and innovative company developing biobased green chemistry to produce n-butanol, n-hexanol and an n-Octanol mixture that range from Carbon negative to Carbon neutral for a broad range of sustainable applications and markets. Our catalysts help industrial clients around the World to decarbonize their products.
At Catalyxx, we combine bio feedstock with a petrochemical process to produce identical chemicals… only better.
Catalyxx transforms bioethanol into drop-in, cost competitive, carbon-negative chemicals. We enable our customers to derisk their supply chain and reduce CO2 emissions without sacrificing profitability, existing infrastructure, or product performance.
Our Mission
Catalyxx is an innovative company whose mission is to be a global leader in catalytic chemistry that allows the replacement of petrochemical products, conventionally made of fossil materials, by the same molecules produced from renewable sources.
The Opportunity
We are looking for a Plant Manager for this rare and exciting opportunity to take the lead in one of the most strategic industrial projects in our company’s history. While our state of the art alcohol distillation facility is being built, you will be fully responsible for operating and optimizing our existing pilot plant. This phase is not just a placeholder—it is the foundation for the industrial plant’s success. The data, process improvements, and operational insights you generate will directly shape the design, commissioning, and performance of the new facility. Once construction is complete, you will transition to leading the commissioning and full-scale operations, ensuring a seamless handover from pilot to industrial production. It’s a role for a visionary leader who thrives on challenges, enjoys shaping processes from scratch, and wants to leave a legacy in the sustainable chemical industry.
If you’re motivated by projects with real impact, you’ll find that here.
What You Will Do
Lead the day to day operation of the pilot plant, ensuring performance, safety, and data collection for optimization of the industrial project.
Translate pilot plant learnings into actionable improvements for the industrial plant’s design and processes.
Work closely with the PMO and engineering team and suppliers during the construction of the industrial plant, monitoring schedules, budgets, and technical specifications.
Coordinate plant commissioning, including equipment testing, system calibration, and process validation.
Develop and implement Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and safety protocols.
Build, train, and lead the operational team for the transition from pilot to industrial plant.
Monitor production, quality, energy consumption, and efficiency KPIs.
Ensure compliance with environmental, safety, and regulatory standards applicable to the chemical sector.
Report directly to the COO, providing analysis, reports, and strategic recommendations.
What We´re Looking For
We’re seeking a leader who is as comfortable on the plant floor as in the boardroom. Someone who can roll up their sleeves to solve operational challenges, while keeping a strategic eye on the bigger picture. You are:
A hands on problem solver who thrives in dynamic, evolving environments.
A strong communicator who can align engineers, operators, and executives around a shared vision.
Resilient under pressure, with the ability to make sound decisions in high-stakes situations.
Passionate about safety, sustainability, and operational excellence.
Curious and data-driven, always looking for ways to improve processes and outcomes.
As Plant Manager, you will be the bridge between our pilot operations and our future industrial scale facility. You will ensure that every insight from the pilot plant is captured and applied to the industrial project, while also participating in the construction conception and then leading commissioning, and operational ramp up of the new plant.
Tasks and Responsibilities
Lead the daily operations of the Catalyxx’s plant, ensuring production, quality, and safety targets are met.
Implement and monitor KPIs for energy efficiency, yield, and operational costs.
Coordinate preventive and corrective maintenance plans in close collaboration with technical teams and suppliers.
Ensure compliance with environmental, industrial safety, and national/inter-national regulatory standards.
Promote continuous improvement through methodologies such as Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma.
Develop and motivate the team, fostering a culture of safety, accountability, and innovation.
Participate in strategic planning for investments and capacity expansion.
Minimum Requirements
Degree in Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, or a related field.
Proven experience (min. 10 years) in managing chemical plants, preferably in distillation, catalytic reactions and continuous processes.
Solid knowledge of process control systems (DCS/PLC) and industrial safety standards (ATEX, OSHA, SEVESO).
Strong leadership, decision-making, and multidisciplinary team management skills.
Fluency in Portuguese and technical English; Spanish is a plus.
Results-oriented profile with strategic vision and a focus on sustainable innovation.
Skills & Competencies
Technical Expertise
Advanced knowledge of alcohol distillation processes and continuous chemical operations.
Proficiency in process control systems (DCS/PLC) and automation technologies.
Strong understanding of industrial safety standards (ATEX, OSHA, SEVESO) and environmental regulations.
Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
Ability to analyze and optimize KPIs for yield, energy efficiency, and operational costs.
Leadership & Management
Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams in high pressure industrial environments.
Strategic planning and decision-making skills with a focus on operational ex-cellence.
Talent development and coaching to build high performance teams.
Strong stakeholder management, including suppliers, regulators, and corporate leadership.
Capacity to identify process bottlenecks and implement effective solutions.
Innovative mindset to drive sustainable improvements and technological upgrades.
Data driven approach to decision-making and performance monitoring.
Communication & Interpersonal Skills
Clear and persuasive communicator in both Portuguese and English (Spanish is a plus).
Ability to foster a culture of safety, accountability, and collaboration. xiphteb
Skilled in presenting technical and operational reports to diverse audiences.
