Operations Manager - Electronics Manufacturing (PCBA)

Company Overview

We are a leading contract Electronics Manufacturing Services (EMS) provider specializing in high-mix, low-to-medium volume Printed Circuit Board Assembly (PCBA) and complex electromechanical box-builds. We serve a diverse client base across industrial, medical, defense, and aerospace sectors.

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced and data-driven Operations Manager to lead operations. The ideal candidate will bridge strategic planning and day-to-day execution, ensuring our production runs safely, efficiently, and to the highest quality standards. The Operations Manager aligns back-end workflows with front-end user interactions. They orchestrate cross-departmental logistics, fulfillment, and service delivery to ensure contracts are consistently met, directly driving customer loyalty and retention. Proven experience in high-mix, low-to-medium volume manufacturing environments, with a solid understanding of full turnkey and box-build execution is highley recommended.

Key Responsibilities

1. Production Management & Scheduling

• Develop and execute the master production schedule to ensure on-time delivery while balancing labor capacity, material availability, and equipment constraints, with input from key senior management.
• Oversee daily production activities to optimize efficiency and end-to-end customer satisfaction.
• Ensure smooth New Product Introduction (NPI) by collaborating with Senior Production Management and process engineering to transition prototypes into scalable production.

2. Quality & Compliance

• Maintain rigorous adherence to industry standards including IPC-A-610 and J-STD soldering standards.
• Ensure strict compliance with ISO 9000/9001 quality management systems, ESD (Electrostatic Discharge) controls, and traceability requirements.
• Monitor and resolve assembly defects, driving root-cause analysis and implementing corrective actions.
• Knowledge of compliance with ISO 13485 (Medical) and AS9100 (Aerospace & Defense) quality systems, including maintaining ITAR compliance and robust traceability protocols considered an advantage.

3. Operational Efficiency & Continuous Improvement

• Apply continuous improvement methodologies to eliminate waste, improve first-pass yield, and reduce cost-per-unit.
• Track and analyze operational Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) such as Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), scrap rates, and cycle times, on-time delivery and quality.

4. Team Leadership & Resource Planning

• Recruit, train, and mentor production supervisors, assemblers, and technicians.
• Foster a proactive, safety-first work environment, managing shift schedules, staffing certifications, and performance reviews.
• Assist with staffing as needed.

5. Materials & Supply Chain Oversight

• Coordinate with procurement and planning to ensure kitting readiness and reduce material shortages.
• Oversee warehouse efficiency, inventory accuracy, and preventive maintenance.

Qualifications & Skills

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Manufacturing Management, or a related technical field is preferred.
• Experience: 5+ years of senior operational or production management experience within the EMS or contract electronics manufacturing industry.
• Technical Acumen: Hands-on experience with SMT pick-and-place machines, reflow ovens, automated optical inspection (AOI), and electronic testing equipment.
• Standards Knowledge: In-depth familiarity with IPC workmanship standards, ESD protocols, and ISO 9001 ( certifications.
• Systems: Proficiency in ERP/MRP ( software and manufacturing execution systems.
• Leadership: Strong team-building skills, conflict resolution expertise, and a production-first mindset.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in a dynamic manufacturing environment and stand/walk for extended periods.
• Manual dexterity for handling small electronic components and parts.
• Ability to occasionally lift/move up to 35 lbs.