Logistics Manager

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