Operations Manager - Mechanical

Mechanical Operations Manager

Our client is seeking an experienced Mechanical Operations Manager to lead daily production activities across assembly, machining, and test operations for a diverse portfolio of aerospace mechanical components, including pumps, motors, valves, and actuators. Reporting directly to the Director of Operations, this role will oversee a cross-functional production environment in a low-volume, high-mix setting—driving operational excellence, quality compliance, and team development.

The ideal candidate brings strong leadership skills, technical depth in aerospace manufacturing, and a proven track record of managing complex production schedules to meet customer and regulatory requirements. This position requires hands-on involvement with both people and processes, ensuring that manufacturing operations run safely, efficiently, and in compliance with FAA and industry standards.

Responsibilities:

• Lead, mentor, and manage production personnel across the Assembly, Machine Shop, and Test Lab, fostering a high-performance culture.
• Oversee day-to-day production schedules, capacity planning, and resource allocation to meet quality, cost, and delivery targets.
• Ensure adherence to FAA regulations, customer specifications, and internal quality systems, maintaining complete product traceability.
• Monitor and improve production workflows, implementing Lean manufacturing principles to increase efficiency and reduce waste.
• Drive problem-solving initiatives for product and process issues, collaborating cross-functionally with engineering, quality, and supply chain.
• Conduct performance evaluations, manage training programs, and address employee development needs to strengthen team capabilities.
• Promote continuous improvement by tracking and improving key performance indicators (KPIs) for safety, quality, delivery, and cost.
• Research and recommend manufacturing process changes to improve product quality, reduce cycle times, or optimize resource usage.
• Maintain compliance with ERP/MRP system processes, ensuring accurate scheduling, materials control, and reporting.
• Champion a safe and productive work environment, ensuring clear communication of expectations and operational goals.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, or related field.
• 5+ years of managerial experience in an aerospace manufacturing production environment with direct exposure to pumps, motors, valves, and actuators.
• Strong technical aptitude, with the ability to interpret blueprints, specifications, and schematics, and oversee processes such as winding, soldering, crimping, varnishing, potting, riveting, rubber-stamping, and spot welding.
• Demonstrated success in supervising teams and fostering a collaborative, accountable workplace culture.
• Solid understanding of Lean manufacturing principles and their practical application in low-volume, high-mix operations.
• Working knowledge of ERP/MRP systems (SAP, Oracle, or equivalent).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Knowledge of FAA regulations and aerospace quality standards.
• Proven ability to manage short-run production schedules involving multiple product lines simultaneously.