We are seeking an experienced and results-driven Operations Manager to lead daily operations at our Military and Aerospace-approved chemical processing facility. This leadership role is responsible for overseeing production, quality, training, safety, environmental compliance, maintenance, and workforce performance while ensuring on-time delivery of precision metal finishing and specialty chemical processing services for the aerospace industry.
The ideal candidate has a strong background in manufacturing and chemical operations, chemical processing, or aerospace metal finishing, with a proven ability to lead teams, improve processes, and maintain compliance with stringent customer and regulatory requirements.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead all day-to-day manufacturing operations, including production scheduling, workflow, staffing, and resource allocation.
- Ensure compliance with aerospace quality standards, customer specifications, and regulatory requirements.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and operational excellence methodologies.
- Monitor production metrics including safety, quality, delivery, productivity, scrap, and cost performance.
- Develop and manage production plans to meet customer delivery commitments.
- Oversee chemical processing operations including anodizing, passivation, conversion coating, plating, cleaning, etching, and related finishing processes.
- Partner with Quality, Engineering, Maintenance, EH&S, and Customer Service to resolve production issues and improve performance.
- Ensure compliance with OSHA, EPA, state environmental regulations, wastewater treatment requirements, and hazardous waste management procedures.
- Lead, coach, and develop supervisors and production personnel while fostering a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
- Prepare and manage departmental budgets, labor planning, and capital improvement projects.
- Coordinate equipment maintenance and facility improvements to maximize uptime and operational efficiency.
- Participate in customer audits, NADCAP audits, environmental audits, and other regulatory inspections.
- Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and implement corrective actions as needed.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, Chemistry, Industrial Technology, or related field (or equivalent experience).
- Minimum 7–10 years of progressive manufacturing leadership experience.
- At least 3 years managing operations within an aerospace, chemical processing, metal finishing, or highly regulated manufacturing environment.
- Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies.
- Experience with production planning, scheduling, budgeting, and workforce management.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems and Microsoft Office.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with aerospace chemical processing, anodizing, plating, passivation, or specialty coatings.
- Working knowledge of NADCAP, AS9100, ISO 9001, and FAA quality requirements.
- Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification.
- Experience managing hazardous chemicals and environmental compliance programs.
- Familiarity with wastewater treatment operations and industrial environmental regulations.
Key Competencies
- Strategic Leadership
- Operational Excellence
- Safety Leadership
- Process Improvement
- Regulatory Compliance
- Customer Focus
- Financial Management
- Team Development
- Decision Making
- Continuous Improvement
Physical Requirements
- Ability to work throughout a manufacturing environment.
- Occasional lifting up to 30 pounds.
- Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Exposure to manufacturing equipment, chemicals, and varying temperatures.
Benefits
- Competitive salary
- Annual performance bonus
- Dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with company match
- Paid vacation and holidays
- Professional development and training opportunities
- Career advancement within a growing aerospace manufacturing organization
Equal Opportunity Employer
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to building a diverse workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.
Pay: $85,000.00 - $110,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
