Director, Operations & Lean Transformation

Watlow-Electric-Manufacturin; Columbia Township (MO); On-site; USD 160,000 - 210,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual Incentive Program

401(k) plan with company match

Wellness incentives

Employee Personal Assistance Program

Medical, dental, vision insurance

Job summary

Watlow in Columbia, Missouri seeks a Director of Operations to lead the Manufacturing Center of Excellence. You will provide strategic direction and hands-on leadership across production, quality, safety, supply chain, and engineering to deliver world-class products and drive operational excellence.

This role reports to the Senior Director of Operations and partners with Business Units and executive leadership.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of progressive leadership in manufacturing operations.
• Demonstrated success implementing Lean principles at scale with hands-on transformation.
• Semiconductor/high-precision manufacturing environment experience.
• Experience with New Product Introduction (NPI/NPD) in a manufacturing setting.
• Strong analytical and communication skills, with a data-driven approach to performance management.

Responsibilities

• Lead all manufacturing operations to achieve safety, quality, delivery, and cost objectives for the Columbia facility.
• Develop and coach a high-performing team; promote safety and continuous improvement.
• Drive Lean transformation to streamline processes and improve throughput and OEE.
• Collaborate with Business Units and NPD to integrate new products into production.
• Establish and monitor KPIs to drive performance and Lean progress.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory, environmental, and industry standards and champion quality.
• Manage budgets, resources, and capital investments with focus on efficiency and cost-reduction.
• Evaluate and introduce new technologies and methods to strengthen production capabilities.
• Lead site-level engagement initiatives aligning with Watlow’s strategy and values.

Skills

Lean principles

Analytical skills

Communication skills

NPI/NPD experience

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Business

Job description

Watlow in Columbia, Missouri seeks a Director of Operations to lead the Manufacturing Center of Excellence. You will provide strategic direction and hands-on leadership across production, quality, safety, supply chain, and engineering to deliver world-class products and drive operational excellence.

This role reports to the Senior Director of Operations and partners with Business Units and executive leadership.