Job Description

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.

This critical role ensures that all engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) activities align with the Owner’s operational requirements, safety standards, and business objectives. The successful candidate will work closely with the EPCM firm, internal stakeholders, and operational teams to develop and implement an effective operational readiness strategy.

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.

If you are a strategic thinker with a passion for operational excellence and project execution, we encourage you to apply and be part of this exciting journey!

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

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