Head Of Operations

Head Of Operations

Our client headquartered in Santa Fe Springs, CA, is a fast-growing manufacturer specializing in electric equipment for rolling stock and light rail vehicles. They proudly serve North American customers with advanced technologies that deliver safe, reliable, and long-lasting transportation equipment.

About The Role

Our client is seeking an experienced and driven Head of Operations to lead our railcar production facility in Carson, California (once the facility is ready). This position plays a critical role in overseeing all operational activities — including safety, production, quality, and employee development — to ensure our manufacturing teams deliver high-quality rail vehicle components that meet customer expectations and project commitments. As the Head of Operations, you'll lead a talented production team, manage day-to-day plant operations, and drive continuous improvement initiatives that enhance efficiency, safety, and performance. This is a hands-on leadership role suited for an operations professional with strong organizational, technical, and people management skills who thrive in a dynamic, project-based manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Operational Management
• Safety, Quality, and Compliance
• Leadership and Employee Development
• Performance Monitoring and Improvement
• Facility and Resource Management
• Supervisory Responsibilities

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of supervisory or management experience in manufacturing, railcar refurbishment, heavy equipment repair, or related fields.
• Experience overseeing railcar overhaul, midlife refurbishment, or new rail vehicle assembly (LRV, Metro, Commuter, Intercity, or APM sectors) strongly preferred.
• Strong understanding of railcar systems (electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, structural, interior components, propulsion, HVAC, and doors).
• Bachelor's degree in Business, Industrial Management, Engineering, or a related field preferred; equivalent experience may be considered.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and ERP/manufacturing software.
• Demonstrated ability to manage large-scale refurbishment or re-manufacturing projects, including budgets and schedules.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Performance Indicators

• Achievement of railcar refurbishment schedules and customer delivery commitments.
• Compliance with safety and quality standards specific to rail industry requirements.
• Performance within budgeted labor and material costs.
• Employee engagement, development, and retention.
• Implementation and sustainability of 5S and continuous improvement initiatives.

Working Conditions

• On-site position at the Carson facility.
• Frequent work on or around railcars, including shop, yard, pits, and platforms.
• May require extended hours or weekend work to meet customer schedules.

What We Offer

• Competitive compensation package commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid time off, holidays and retirement plan.
• Opportunity to lead a key facility in a growing, innovative rail manufacturing company.
• Collaborative, team-oriented environment focused on safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

System One, and its subsidiaries including Joulé and Mountain Ltd., are leaders in delivering outsourced services and workforce solutions across North America. We help clients get work done more efficiently and economically, without compromising quality. System One not only serves as a valued partner for our clients, but we offer eligible employees health and welfare benefits coverage options including medical, dental, vision, spending accounts, life insurance, voluntary plans, as well as participation in a 401(k) plan. System One is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, family care or medical leave status, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.