Director of Plant Operations

About the Role Ascentec Engineering is hiring a Director of Plant Operations for our Tualatin headquarters. We are a leader in innovative high‑tech contract manufacturing and precision machining, specializing in aerospace, semiconductor, and high‑tech OEM industries. Our commitment to excellence and continuous improvement drives our success and client satisfaction. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in manufacturing, leadership experience, and a passion for optimizing processes to achieve operational excellence. The selected candidate will be responsible for ensuring production efficiency, quality compliance, and safety while leading a diverse manufacturing team. Key Responsibilities Operations Management: Oversee all aspects of plant operations, including production planning, scheduling, machining, deburr, quality inspection, shipping/receiving, and resource allocation to ensure timely delivery of high‑quality products. Team Leadership: Lead, mentor, and develop a high‑performing team, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Quality Assurance: Ensure compliance with industry standards and customer specifications, implementing quality control processes and monitoring performance metrics to drive improvement. Safety Compliance: Promote a strong safety culture by ensuring adherence to safety regulations and best practices, conducting regular safety audits, and implementing training programs. Process Improvement: Identify opportunities for process optimization and cost reduction using Lean and Six Sigma methodologies, and drive initiatives to enhance efficiency and productivity. Supply Chain Management: Collaborate with procurement and logistics teams to ensure timely availability of materials and components while maintaining inventory levels. Budget Management: Develop and manage the plant budget, ensuring effective cost control and resource allocation to meet operational goals. Customer Engagement: Maintain strong relationships with key customers, addressing concerns and ensuring satisfaction with product quality and delivery. Reporting: Prepare and present regular reports on plant performance, key metrics, and improvement initiatives to senior management. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, or a related field; a Master’s degree or relevant certifications (e.g., PMP, Lean Six Sigma) and semiconductor manufacturing experience are strong pluses. 7+ years of experience in manufacturing management, with a focus on high‑tech precision machining. Proven track record of managing plant operations, including production planning, quality assurance, and safety compliance. Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and develop a diverse workforce. In‑depth knowledge of manufacturing industry standards, regulations, and best practices. Excellent problem‑solving and analytical skills, with a data‑driven approach to decision‑making. Strong communication and interpersonal skills, capable of building relationships at all levels of the organization and with customers. Proficiency in ERP systems and manufacturing software. Epicor Kinetics ERP experience is a plus. Compensation & Benefits $125 k – $200 k base pay + bonus Medical, dental, and vision 401(k) with company match up to 4% Short‑term and long‑term disability insurance Tuition assistance or reimbursement Life insurance Paid time off and holidays Employee assistance programs Applicant must be able to pass a drug screen and criminal background check prior to employment. ITAR Requirements: To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here. We believe in investing in our people and fostering a culture of innovation and excellence. We offer competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for professional growth and development. Equal Opportunity Employer ; employment with Ascentec Engineering is governed on the basis of merit, competence, and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status. #J-18808-Ljbffr