Operations Manager - Assembly

De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited; Sidney; On-site; CAD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

De Havilland Aircraft of Canada is seeking an Operations Manager – Assembly for their Victoria location. The ideal candidate will lead the production teams to achieve operational goals while ensuring compliance with safety regulations and quality standards. This role involves strategic planning, performance management, and fostering a safe workplace culture. Candidates should have a proven track record in managing operations within an aerospace or manufacturing setting.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in managing production teams and operations.
• Strong knowledge of health and safety regulations.
• Experience in aerospace or manufacturing environment is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Oversee assembly production operations to ensure timely delivery.
• Align production with business objectives and KPIs.
• Promote and manage health and safety best practices.

Skills

Leadership

Operational Compliance

Continuous Improvement

Project Management

Safety Management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field

Job description

De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited (DHC) is a storied name in the aerospace industry, recognized worldwide for its pioneering contributions to aviation and its unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and reliability. Headquartered in Calgary, AB, DHC currently has approximately 1,400 employees across British Columbia, Alberta and Ontario, as well as in markets and distribution hubs world-wide.

Established in 1928, De Havilland Canada has a rich history marked by the development of some of the most iconic and versatile aircraft ever built. These aircraft have served a variety of roles—from bush flying to commercial aviation—and are celebrated for their rugged durability, operational versatility, and excellence in performance.

Over the decades, De Havilland Canada has evolved to meet the changing needs of the aviation industry. Today, we are more than just an aircraft manufacturer; we are a comprehensive aerospace company with capabilities that span design, production, maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services. Our operations are supported by a team of skilled engineers, technicians, and industry professionals who are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of craftsmanship and innovation.

Position Summary

The Operations Manager – Assembly is accountable for overseeing the full spectrum of assembly production operations in DHC Victoria. This role is responsible for the on time delivery of manufactured and assembled products through Victoria - Hangar 2, to internal and external customers, while also aligning with broader operational strategies. The Operations Manager – Assembly will collaborate across engineering, methods, supply chain, planning and leadership teams to ensure project goals are met efficiently and safely.

Duties & Responsibilities

Leadership & Planning

• Lead, manage and coach the production teams to achieve daily, weekly, and monthly operational goals.
• Align production operations with short- and mid-term business objectives through executable action plans with clear understood KPIs and timelines.
• Ensure a positive, respectful, and transparent work environment.
• Promote a strong safety culture, ensuring all health and safety policies, audits, investigations, and best practices are followed.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives, risk mitigation, and resolution of operational challenges.
  
  
  

Operational Compliance & Execution

• Ensure compliance with internal quality systems and applicable regulations (e.g., Transport Canada, AS9100).
• Oversee day-to-day execution of assembly, maintenance, and troubleshooting to meet production needs.
• Coordinate and Improve site processes, workloads and resources to meet business needs.
• Ensure appropriate staffing and resources are in place and monitor progress regularly.
• Escalate operational risks and delays to senior leadership.
  
  
  

Performance & Development

• Ensure the site accurately displays the right KPIs supported by executable action plans to support business goals.
• Manage individual performance and identify training and development needs for team members from entry-level through to management.
• Foster a strong team culture and maintain awareness of team engagement and morale.
• Support succession planning for production cells and broader operations roles.
  
  
  

Reporting & Continuous Improvement

• Provide routine and ad hoc updates on progress against plans, including risk assessments and mitigation strategies.
• Develop and manage budgets for operations and support cost-effective solutions.
• Recommend and implement process improvements to enhance operational efficiency and effectiveness.
• Drive innovation in manufacturing and assembly techniques using best practice and technology.
  
  
  

Additional Accountabilities

• Support site operational improvement projects.
• Coordinate efficient site-wide movement of goods and resources related to operations.
• Develop annual workforce planning and resourcing strategies.
• Maintain awareness of industry trends, market data, and best practices that impact operations.
  
  
  

At De Havilland Aircraft of Canada (DHC), we are committed to protecting our people, customers, shareholders and the public through Health & Safety Excellence. As such, it is expected that all employees maintain strict adherence to Health & Safety Policies and to perform key physical tasks of the position described in the job description and interview process. This may include but is not limited to the ability to work in a variety of environmental conditions including temperature extremes, confined spaces, working at heights and with or around chemicals. Employees are expected to adhere to the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) when at work which must include but is not limited to the ability to maintain a positive fit test when mask use is required.

At De Havilland Canada, we aim to be inclusive and diverse and provide equal opportunity for employment. All qualified applicants, regardless of gender, age, race, religion, sexual orientation, and disability, are encouraged to apply. De Havilland will accommodate the needs of applicants with disabilities throughout all stages of the selection process. If you need accommodation during the recruitment process, please advise your Talent Acquisition representative. Information relating to the need for accommodation and accommodation measures will be addressed confidentially.

Any offer of employment is conditional on the completion of positive and satisfactory background checks, which may include, proof that you are legally entitled to work in Canada, professional references, verification of employment history, verification of educational background and criminal background checks.