RTO Manager (Must Have Starch Dryer Experience)
Location: Cedar Rapids, IA
Pay: $50–$70/hour
Per Diem: $178/day worked
Travel: Open to travelers

Overview
We are seeking an experienced RTO (Ready-to-Operate) Manager with direct experience supporting starch dryer systems for a large-scale industrial project in Cedar Rapids.
This role is responsible for driving operational readiness and ensuring a smooth transition from construction and commissioning into full plant operations. You will act as the key bridge between project teams and operations, ensuring systems, people, and processes are fully prepared for safe and reliable startup.

Key Responsibilities
Operational Readiness

Develop and execute the Operational Readiness (OR) plan aligned to project milestones
Define scope, deliverables, and readiness KPIs
Coordinate across engineering, construction, HSE, maintenance, and operations

Engineering & Project Coordination

Partner with engineering and commissioning teams to ensure system readiness
Ensure completion of turnover packages, as-builts, and documentation
Align vendor/OEM requirements with operational expectations

Commissioning & Startup

Support commissioning activities with a strong focus on operational needs
Define system and subsystem handover processes
Integrate operations team into testing and startup activities

Operations Preparation

Ensure readiness of:

Staffing and org structure
Training programs (OEM, classroom, field)
SOPs and emergency procedures
Maintenance plans and spare parts

Implement LOTO, permitting, and site safety processes

Asset & Maintenance Readiness

Build out CMMS/EAM systems (SAP or similar):

Asset hierarchy
Preventive maintenance plans
Spare parts/BOMs

Verify tools and critical spares are in place

HSE & Compliance

Ensure full compliance with safety and environmental standards
Support:

Risk assessments and hazard reviews
Environmental permitting
Pre-Startup Safety Reviews (PSSR)

Documentation & Handover

Ensure all O&M manuals, vendor documentation, and training records are complete
Lead development of the operations handover package
Support transition into stable, long-term operations

Stakeholder Management

Lead readiness reviews and report progress to leadership
Identify risks and drive mitigation plans
Coordinate with internal and external stakeholders

Required Qualifications
Must-Have

Direct experience with starch dryer systems (required)
10+ years of industrial project experience
5+ years in commissioning, operations, maintenance, or project leadership
Proven experience supporting plant startup or operational readiness

Technical

Strong understanding of commissioning and plant operations
Experience with CMMS/EAM systems (SAP preferred)
Knowledge of HSE, LOTO, and permitting processes
Ability to read schedules, P&IDs, and technical drawings

Leadership

Strong coordination and project leadership skills
Effective communicator with cross-functional teams

Preferred

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related field

Additional Details

Full-time, onsite in Cedar Rapids, IA
Open to both local candidates and travelers