Manufacturing Lead

Manufacturing Operations Lead

We are seeking an experienced Manufacturing Operations Lead to oversee production activities within a fast-paced aerospace manufacturing environment. This individual will be responsible for driving operational performance, supporting team development, maintaining quality standards, and ensuring production goals are achieved safely and efficiently. The ideal candidate brings strong leadership skills, a continuous improvement mindset, and experience managing manufacturing processes from planning through execution.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and coordinate daily manufacturing activities across production, machining, assembly, processing, and material flow operations.
• Monitor workflow, staffing, and resources to ensure schedules, production targets, and customer commitments are consistently achieved.
• Evaluate production requirements, engineering specifications, and demand forecasts to develop effective operational plans.
• Lead daily production discussions, communicate priorities, and address operational challenges that impact performance.
• Track productivity, efficiency, quality, and delivery metrics while identifying opportunities for improvement.
• Analyze operational data and reporting to resolve bottlenecks, reduce waste, and improve overall throughput.
• Establish, update, and maintain manufacturing procedures, work instructions, and process controls.
• Build and manage training programs that support employee development, skill advancement, and onboarding initiatives.
• Promote workforce flexibility through cross-functional training and collaboration between departments.
• Coach team members through performance management, career development, and ongoing skills improvement.
• Foster accountability and engagement through clear expectations, measurable goals, and regular feedback.
• Support a culture of innovation by encouraging employees to identify and implement process improvements.
• Conduct employee evaluations and participate in hiring, disciplinary actions, performance improvement plans, and recognition initiatives.
• Collaborate with engineering, quality, and operations teams to review customer requirements and manufacturing specifications.
• Champion Lean Manufacturing, continuous improvement, and operational excellence projects while measuring project results.
• Ensure compliance with company quality standards, regulatory requirements, and documented procedures.
• Promote a strong safety-first culture and maintain compliance with all workplace safety policies and regulations.

Required Qualifications

• Experience leading teams within a manufacturing, production, machining, processing, or industrial environment.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing operations, production flow, and process optimization.
• Proven ability to supervise, motivate, and develop production personnel.
• Experience scheduling production and balancing workload priorities to meet customer demand.
• Ability to interpret work orders, manufacturing documentation, production schedules, and operational reports.
• Proficiency using performance metrics and KPIs to monitor productivity and drive continuous improvement.
• Hands-on experience with Lean Manufacturing, process improvement, Kaizen, or operational excellence initiatives.
• Strong commitment to workplace safety, product quality, and operational efficiency.
• Experience creating standardized work processes, procedures, and training documentation.
• Ability to deliver coaching, mentorship, and employee development programs.
• Strong communication skills with experience conducting performance discussions and evaluations.
• Familiarity with quality management systems and manufacturing compliance requirements.

Preferred Experience

• Aerospace, aviation, defense, or other highly regulated manufacturing industry experience.
• Background in mechanical manufacturing, fabrication, machining, or industrial operations.
• Experience working alongside engineering and quality teams to support process development and compliance initiatives.
• Exposure to customer specifications, technical documentation, and manufacturing process controls.
• Demonstrated success leading cross-functional teams and driving organizational change.
• Experience facilitating production meetings and communicating operational results to leadership teams.
• Proven record of implementing sustainable process improvements that improve safety, quality, cost, or delivery performance.

What We Offer

This is a direct-hire opportunity with a company committed to operational excellence, employee development, and long-term growth. You'll join a team that values collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement while providing opportunities to influence meaningful operational decisions. Employees are empowered to share ideas, lead improvements, and develop professionally through training, mentorship, and advancement opportunities.

Work Setting

This position is based at an aerospace manufacturing facility in Auburn, Washington. The role operates primarily within a production environment and involves regular interaction with manufacturing personnel, equipment, quality systems, and operational leadership. Success in this role requires a hands-on leadership approach, strong communication skills, and a commitment to maintaining a safe, productive, and quality-focused workplace.

Job Type & Location: This is a Permanent position based out of Auburn, WA.

Pay and Benefits: The pay range for this position is $79040.00 - $83200.00/yr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

WHY CHOOSE SONACA NORTH AMERICA? We take care of our people. 401(k) retirement savings plan with a percentage company-match contribution Competitive wages Paid holidays Paid time off Medical, dental, vision, life, and accidental insurance Short-term disability Long-term disability Employee assistance plan for access to counseling, consulting, and other community resources Wellness program Tuition assistance Subject to eligibility, terms, and conditions

Workplace Type: This is a fully onsite position in Auburn,WA.

Application Deadline: This position is anticipated to close on Sep 11, 2026.