Operational Readiness Manager

At Peter Lucas (located within Treaty 6 Territory and Homeland of the Metis), we offer a variety of work, professional development, and learning opportunities that come from working on diverse projects in the mining, energy, and heavy industrial sectors. Our dynamic environment, filled with high-achieving professionals, enables our staff to take on incredible opportunities, gain mentorship from a diverse group of colleagues, and succeed in their careers.

Peter Lucas Project Management invests in people, community, and cutting-edge technology to provide gold standard project delivery. We are currently looking for a highly experienced Operational Readiness Manager to lead the transition from engineering to operations for our lithium project.

**Key Responsibilities**:
**Operational Readiness Strategy & Execution**:

- Develop and implement a comprehensive Operational Readiness Plan to ensure a seamless transition from project execution to steady-state operations.
- Define key readiness milestones, deliverables, and KPIs to track project progress.
- Collaborate with EPCM and internal teams to establish commissioning, start-up, and ramp-up plans.

**Oversight of EPCM Deliverables**:

- Review and assess the EPCM’s engineering, procurement, and construction planning to confirm adherence to the Owner’s operational, safety, and reliability requirements.
- Ensure operational inputs are integrated into design, equipment selection, and construction methodologies.
- Provide guidance on operability, maintainability, and long-term asset management best practices.

**Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration**:

- Act as the liaison between EPCM, Operations, and Executive Leadership, ensuring alignment across all phases of project execution.
- Work with cross-functional teams including maintenance, HSE, supply chain, and workforce planning to ensure all aspects of the operation are considered during project development.
- Engage with regulatory bodies and ensure compliance with local, state, and federal mining and environmental regulations.

**Commissioning & Startup Readiness**:

- Lead the development of commissioning and handover strategies, ensuring a structured transition from construction to operations.
- Coordinate the recruitment, training, and onboarding of operational personnel to ensure workforce readiness.
- Oversee the development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), emergency response plans, and operational control frameworks.

**Risk Management & Continuous Improvement**:

- Identify and mitigate operational risks associated with the transition from project to operations.
- Establish best practices for continuous improvement and operational excellence.
- Conduct lessons-learned sessions post-ramp-up to optimize future projects.

**Why Join Us?**
- Be at the forefront of a high-growth lithium project in a rapidly expanding industry.
- Work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment with a collaborative and results-driven team.
- Opportunity to shape the future of lithium operations and drive sustainable resource development.

We appreciate all applicants' interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Wages are negotiable based on experience and qualifications.

Global reference checks may be conducted after the interview process.
- Note: Peter Lucas Project Management is an equal-opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees._

**Requirements**:

- **10+ years of experience** in operational readiness, project management, or operations leadership in the **mining, mineral processing, chemical, or lithium industry**.
- Strong background in **commissioning, startup, and ramp-up** of large-scale industrial facilities.
- Experience working with **EPCM firms** and overseeing complex engineering and construction projects.
- Deep understanding of **lithium processing technologies, hydrometallurgy, and mineral processing** is highly desirable.
- Strong knowledge of **operational best practices, safety management systems, and regulatory requirements** in the mining or chemical processing industry.
- Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive alignment between engineering and operations.
- Excellent problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills.
- International travel on an as needed basis

**Preferred Qualifications**:

- Bachelor’s degree in **Engineering, Mining, Metallurgy, or a related field**.
- PMP, Six Sigma, or Asset Management certifications are a plus.
- Experience with **SAP, CMMS, and other operational readiness tools**.

**Benefits**
- Health and dental benefits
- Employer Matched Pension Plan
- Employee Events