Company Background:

The Solix vision is to be the leading provider of integrated solutions and services that enable the cultivation of algae and production of algal products. Solix is currently launching its first cultivation system, a 4000 L algae growth system for R&D scale cultivation or clean inoculum development. Solix’ AGS™ is a high productivity reliable solution to industrial algae cultivation.    

Solix seeks individuals who are self-motivated, able to be a contributor in multi-discipline team of engineers and scientists, possess excellent communication skills, and have the ability to adapt to the fast paced environment of a rapidly growing company.

Solix Biosystems offers a very competitive compensation package, including an attractive benefit package (health, dental, and vision insurance, 401k, and paid time off). 

Position Summary:

We are seeking a people-oriented, hard working, high energy leader with strong technical skills to manage the ongoing operations for our algae-based biofuel pilot production facility. 

Position Location:  near Durango and Ignacio, CO on Southern Ute Reservation

Responsibilities:

·         Play a lead role in building a strong team at the pilot site facility staff:  hire, train, evaluate, develop, and retain strong performers; align team to company goals, and foster collaboration with operations in Fort Collins. 

·         Manage the performance of direct reports, including coaching and providing developmental opportunities; provide performance input on indirect reports.

·         Establish, communicate, and implement daily and monthly production plans.  Report on key performance metrics to manager on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis.

·         Assist technician/operators in daily operations. 

·         Ensure accurate reporting of all production and inventory.

·         Accurately convey operational, process and site conditions to manager and other staff in Fort Collins.

·         Perform budgeting, inventory management, procurement, including reporting responsibility and a records retention strategy to ensure manager is fully informed of site expenses.   

·         On site safety management. 

·         Ensure facility staff’s compliance with company policies, state, and federal laws.

·         Understand and ensure compliance to regulatory requirements for the facility, including environmental regulations and regulations arising from location on Native American lands.

·         Play a key role in setting the stage for expansion of this initial pilot site to commercial scale and possibly consult for additional facilities at other locations.

·         Capture knowledge gained operating the facility in the form of process documentation and recommendations for optimizing future facilities. 

·         Implement general housekeeping, cleanliness, and organization standards.  Provide tours, and provide basic office management as needed.

 Required experience and skills:

·         10+ years business and people management experience in an industrial process plant (such as gas compression, E & P, wastewater treatment).

·         Familiar with regulatory permits and compliance requirements under EPA (e.g. groundwater) and OSHA.

·         Demonstrated ability to learn new processes quickly.

·         Demonstrated initiative in continuously improving production processes and documentation.

·         Demonstrated ability to solve problems quickly, independently and make good judgment calls on when and how to facilitate team input. Demonstrated ability to effectively interface with and manage a diverse workforce in a wide variety of roles and disciplines.

·          Flexibility; e.g. willing to roll up the sleeves and assist the technicians and engineers on the crew.

·         Strong ability to train others.

·         Strong communication skills including listening, meeting planning and facilitation, proficiency in conflict resolution, engaging direct reports in idea generation and problem solving, and involving/informing key constituents.

·         Strong vendor management skills.  

·         Strong communication skills, including developing and maintaining good communication practices, both verbal and written.

·         Demonstrated proficiency in teaming with other locations, including facilitating technical discussions.

·         Demonstrated ability to work in remote environment (“Home Office”/Satellite Office structure).

·         Able to balance maintenance work, retrofits to plant, etc., with operational demands of the facility.

·         Computer skills (MS Office Suite).

·         Results focused; highly organized; open to feedback and self-development. 

·         Preferred:  familiarity with Southern Ute Tribe, TERO, and the BIA. 

Required Education:

·         BS in a technical field, preferably engineering, or biology, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Work Environment/Physical Demands: 

·         Extended distance from populated areas over primitive road conditions.

·         Hours will fluctuate and generally be higher in the summer months.

·         Some training in Fort Collins and periodic travel travel to Ft Collins. 

·         Able to safely lift 50 pounds.

·         Able to work some weekends and holidays per on call structure.

·         Physical requirements for this work includes but is not limited to climbing, bending, crouching, crawling, keyboarding, standing, kneeling, walking, sitting, and lifting.  These activities will require that the Plant Manager perform these tasks under any weather conditions and in accordance with company policies and procedures.

Plusses: 

·         Knowledge/Formal Training in Biology; experience working in multidisciplinary teams (e.g. biologists and engineers).

·         Knowledge/Experience with Native American regulations.

·         Knowledge of natural gas field operations and equipment.

·         Experience working in remote locations.

·         Background in trades (electrical, welding, automation) helpful/desirable.