Job Description
Logistics Manager (Ethanol / Chemical Plant Operations)
Location: Sauget, IL, Onsite
About the Role
We are seeking a Logistics Manager to lead and optimize material flow for a high-volume ethanol and chemical manufacturing facility. This is not a traditional logistics role—this position sits at the intersection of plant operations, bulk material logistics, and supply chain coordination.
You will play a critical role in ensuring uninterrupted production by managing inbound raw materials, outbound shipments, storage capacity, and vendor coordination, while also helping launch and scale rail logistics operations.
This is an opportunity to join a growing, innovative operation with a strong long-term expansion plan and proprietary technology.
Key Responsibilities
Outbound Logistics
Coordinate shipment of ethanol and co-products from the facility
Manage third-party logistics vendors (trucking and future rail)
Optimize freight costs and improve operational efficiency
Transition logistics operations from customer-managed pickup to company-managed shipping
Rail Logistics (New Implementation)
Support the setup and ongoing management of rail shipping operations
Coordinate railcar scheduling, loading, and turnaround cycles
Assist with railcar leasing and vendor relationships
Ensure compliance with applicable DOT and transportation regulations
Inbound Logistics
Oversee delivery and unloading of raw materials, including:
Corn (50–60 truckloads per day)
Bulk chemicals
Coordinate with plant operations to ensure timely unloading and storage
Manage vendor communication and delivery schedules
Inventory & Production Coordination
Monitor and manage bulk storage tanks and silo capacity
Align inbound deliveries and outbound shipments with production schedules
Execute just-in-time (JIT) inventory strategies
Adjust logistics plans based on production changes, delays, or external factors (e.g., weather)
Team Leadership
Supervise a team of ~4 employees (growing with operations)
Provide guidance in a highly automated but people-supported environment
Partner with control room and plant operations teams in a 24/7 facility
Required Qualifications
Experience in ethanol production, chemical manufacturing, or bulk processing environments
Proven background in high-volume, bulk logistics (liquids, commodities, or chemicals)
Experience managing inbound and outbound material flow in a production setting
Strong understanding of supply chain coordination within continuous operations
Experience working with third-party vendors (carriers, suppliers, etc.)
Preferred Qualifications
Direct experience in an ethanol plant
Exposure to rail logistics and transportation
Familiarity with DOT regulations related to bulk or rail shipping
Experience with contract negotiation or vendor rate management
Background in startup or rapidly scaling operations
What This Role Is NOT
This is not a traditional:
Warehouse logistics role (pick/pack/ship)
Trucking dispatch position
Small SKU distribution environment
Candidates must have experience in bulk, high-volume production environments.
Compensation & Benefits
Competitive salary (based on experience and market alignment)
Medical, dental, and vision coverage
401(k) with company match
Opportunity for future performance-based incentives
Why Join Us?
Be part of a growing operation with a strong 5-year expansion plan
Work with innovative, proprietary technology in the chemical space
Opportunity to help build and scale logistics systems, including rail operations
| Location | Illinois |