Operations Manager

Title
Operations Manager


About the Organization
Applied Aerospace & Defense (Applied) is a premier provider of advanced design, engineering, and vertically integrated manufacturing solutions for leading and next-generation space and defense technology companies. Applied builds complex hardware for extreme operating environments and is focused on three core markets: Space and Launch Systems, Defense Aviation and Airborne Systems, and C5ISR and Precision Strike Systems. With decades of space and defense manufacturing heritage, Applied combines deep material science and IP-enabled process expertise with the ability to enable rapid prototyping, enhance new product development, and responsively scale production. Across its nationwide infrastructure of advanced manufacturing facilities, Applied continuously supports a balanced mix of next-generation technology and platform development, large scale production programs, and aftermarket sustainment for enduring platforms.


EOE Statement
Applied Aerospace and Defense is an equal opportunity employer.


Description

Position Summary

The Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing daily operational activities while driving continuous improvement, accountability, and operational excellence across the organization. This role ensures processes are efficient, organized, and aligned with company standards, with a strong focus on implementing and sustaining lean principles and fostering a culture of accountability, ownership, integrity, and performance. This position reports to the President.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership

• Oversee day-to-day operations to ensure productivity, quality, and safety targets are met.
• Develop and implement operational strategies that improve efficiency and reduce waste.
• Develop and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and drive actions to meet or exceed operational goals.
• Support the development and achieving of annual operating plans and budgets
• Coordinate cross-functional teams to ensure alignment between departments.

Continuous Improvement

• Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean methodologies and data-driven decision making.
• Identify operational inefficiencies/bottlenecks and implement sustainable process improvements.
• Facilitate problem-solving activities including root cause analysis and corrective action planning.
• Track and report improvement initiatives and operational performance metrics.

Accountability & Team Development

• Establish clear expectations, performance standards, and accountability across teams.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and provide constructive feedback.
• Oversee time off requests and disciplinary issues.
• Promote a culture of ownership, responsibility, collaboration and continuous improvement.

Process & Performance Management

• Standardize operational procedures and ensure adherence to company policies.
• Implement systems to track workflow, productivity, and operational performance.
• Drive initiatives that improve safety, quality, delivery, and cost performance.
• Ensure operational documentation and reporting remain organized and accurate.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Operations Management, Engineering, or related field preferred.
• 5+ years of Manager level experience in operations, manufacturing, or process management.
• Proven experience implementing Lean, Continuous Improvement, or 5S methodologies.
• Strong leadership, employee development, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience managing teams and driving accountability in a performance-driven environment.
• Experience managing manufacturing of low-volume, high mix model
• Ability to analyze data and translate insights into operational improvements.

Position Requirements

Shift
Days


Full-Time/Part-Time
Full-Time


Location
Applied Aerospace & Defense, Boylston


Category
Operations


Req Number
OPE-26-00003


Position
Operations Manager


Close Date

Post Internal Days
0


Number of Openings
1


Exempt/Non-Exempt
Exempt


Hiring Manager(s)
Paula Inglis

This position is currently accepting applications.

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