Perma-Pipe in Hebron, OH is looking for an experienced Operations Specialist

The Operations Specialist supports the successful transition, launch, and day-to-day operational execution of Perma-Pipe's Hebron, Ohio facility. This role is a key on-site resource during and after plant integration by leveraging deep historical facility knowledge to help Perma-Pipe establish safe, stable, and efficient manufacturing operations while ensuring alignment to company standards for safety, quality, and productivity.

This position is highly hands-on and requires a flexible, resourceful, and solutions-oriented individual who can work across departments to remove roadblocks, document processes, assist with equipment and workflow readiness, and support operational leadership in meeting plant goals.

The role is situated in Hebron, OH and is not a remote or hybrid position.

Perma-Pipe International Holdings, Inc is a dynamic, global supplier of pipe coating solutions and factory pre-insulated piping systems serving the oil & gas, district heating and cooling, and industrial markets. With a strong focus on quality, safety, and innovation. Essential Job Functions

Plant Startup & Operational Readiness

• Support facility startup activities including site readiness, workflow setup, and operational stabilization.
• Assist with equipment onboarding, staging, and coordination with vendors and internal teams.
• Help establish plant routines, processes, and execution frameworks.

Cross-Functional Coordination

• Coordinate day-to-day activities across production, maintenance, engineering, supply chain, quality, and safety teams.
• Serve as a communication bridge between departments to prevent delays and ensure alignment.
• Track operational issues impacting safety, delivery, cost, and productivity, escalating when necessary.

Production & Execution Support

• Support production readiness including material availability, workflow sequencing, and staffing coordination.
• Act as an on-the-floor resource during ramp-up and early production phases.
• Assist leadership with workflow coordination and operational execution.

Process Development & Continuous Improvement

• Support development of SOPs, work instructions, and standard work practices.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives (6S, waste reduction, process optimization).
• Help implement visual management and process flow improvements.

Reporting & Administrative Support

• Maintain action logs, support KPI tracking, and assist with operational reporting.
• Coordinate meetings, follow-ups, and execution tracking activities.
• Document processes, training materials, and plant-specific operational guides.

Safety & Compliance

• Promote a strong safety culture and ensure adherence to safe work practices.
• Support safety training, audits, and corrective action tracking.
• Reinforce compliance with OSHA and quality standards (ISO).

Team Support & Knowledge Transfer

• Support onboarding and training of new employees.
• Share institutional knowledge related to plant operations, layout, and constraints.
• Provide flexible support across departments to ensure operational continuity.

Qualifications & Skills

• 5+ years of experience in manufacturing operations, plant support, or facility operations.
• Prior leadership or coordination experience is a plus.
• Strong understanding of shop floor operations and production workflows.
• Proven ability to work cross-functionally and drive execution.
• Experience improving processes and operational efficiency.
• Highly organized with strong task management and prioritization skills.
• Effective communication skills with the ability to influence without direct authority.
• Knowledge of OSHA safety standards and ISO quality environments.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook, Word); ERP experience is a plus.
• Comfortable working in a hands-on, industrial environment.

Physical Requirements

• Frequent standing and walking throughout the facility.
• Regular bending, reaching, climbing, and maneuvering around equipment.
• Ability to navigate production, storage, and office areas safely.
• Ability to work in elevated or confined areas when required.
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs as needed.

Equipment & Tools Used

• Standard office equipment and Microsoft Office applications.
• ERP and internal operational systems.
• Interaction with plant tools, measuring devices, and production equipment as needed.
• Occasional use or coordination around forklifts, cranes, and material handling equipment (if certified/authorized).

Work Environment

• Industrial manufacturing and fabrication facility.
• Work performed both on the production floor and in office settings.
• Exposure to noise, heat, moving equipment, and industrial conditions.
• Required use of PPE including steel-toed boots, safety glasses, gloves, and hearing protection.
• Occasional extra hours may be required to support audits, inspections, or production schedules.

Why Perma-Pipe

• Stable, well-established manufacturing organization.
• Strong focus on safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
• Opportunity to influence weld quality and shop performance daily.
• Collaborative, team-driven environment.

PERMA-PIPE International Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: PPIH) is a global leader in engineered piping solutions, specializing in insulation systems, containment, anti-corrosion coatings, custom fabrication, leak detection, engineering support, field service, and logistics. For decades, our expertise has set industry benchmarks, backed by ISO 9001, ISO 1401, and ISO 45001 certifications.

With eleven production facilities worldwide-including the U.S., Canada, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Qatar, and India-we deliver localized service with global reach, scaling efficiently to meet complex project needs of any size or location.

PERMA-PIPE is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO), providing fair employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or genetic information.