Operations Manager

Proworks Services, Inc; Brea (CA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aerospace firm in Brea, California, is looking for an Aerospace Operations Manager. This role involves directing manufacturing activities, ensuring profitability, and overseeing a team of up to 150 employees. The ideal candidate has over 5 years of management experience in engineering or manufacturing and holds a relevant BS/BA degree. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills are essential for success in this role, along with a results-oriented mindset and leadership capabilities.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of progressively responsible management experience in engineering or manufacturing, preferably aerospace or defense.
• Strong knowledge of production control and manufacturing processes.
• Ability to motivate teams and manage multiple projects effectively.

Responsibilities

• Directs and manages manufacturing operations to meet profitability and delivery targets.
• Analyzes costs and oversees capital expenditures.
• Promotes safety and compliance with regulations.

Skills

Management experience in engineering or manufacturing

Consulting and coaching skills

Problem solving

Analytical skills

Knowledge of quality standards (ISO/AS9100)

ERP systems proficiency

Strong communication skills

Flexibility

Results-oriented mindset

Education

BS/BA in Engineering, Business, or related field

Tools

ERP software

Job description

Overview

Direct Hire, Aerospace Operations Manager - Brea CA

Directs and coordinates the activities of the manufacturing/operations/production department within a business unit. Focuses on cost-effective utilization of manpower, capital equipment, and other resources to manufacture products that meet targets for profitability, on-time delivery, productivity, and quality. Coordinates with sales, inspection, purchasing, and other functions to plan and maintain optimal output, customer satisfaction, and new product production. Responsible for operating budgets, shipments, productivity, continuous improvement, manpower planning, and customer satisfaction. Engages the workforce, promotes accountability, and empowers employees to drive decision making, foster innovation, and continuous learning with ongoing feedback.

Primary Responsibilities

• Directs and manages the work activities of the manufacturing function including molding, assembly, engineering support functions, and production control for a major product group.
• Maintains production reporting, accurate inventory counts, and variance analysis to minimize yield loss, repairs, and scrap.
• Analyzes costs, expenses, operating efficiency, and losses to ensure profitability.
• Oversees the cost-effective utilization of manpower, capital equipment, and other resources to meet targets for profitability, on-time delivery, productivity, and quality.
• Reviews production orders/schedules to determine product data, quantities, specifications, and delivery dates to plan department operations.
• Monitors work in process to meet schedules or reschedule as needed.
• Plans production operations per master schedule, establishing priorities and sequences; coordinates activities to meet specifications.
• Reviews production and operating reports, resolves problems to minimize costs and delays; monitors machines and equipment for optimal performance.
• Prepares annual maintenance and capital improvements plans; recommends capital expenditures.
• Ensures tooling and materials are available for production lines and necessary jigs/tools are created or modified.
• Maintains morale, job satisfaction, and productivity; ensures adherence to company policies and procedures.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Manages subordinate supervisors/managers who supervise approximately 60–150 employees in molding, assembly, and product support departments.
• Interviews, hires, trains, assigns, directs, appraises, rewards, disciplines, and resolves employee issues.
• Supports continuous improvement/lean manufacturing programs (value stream mapping, 5S, Kaizen, Visual Controls, Pull/Kanban, standardized work, line balancing, etc.).
• Drives safety, quality, service, and cost metrics; assesses team performance against metrics.
• Prepare capital expenditure requests for possible funding based on financial analysis.
• Proactively solves problems, builds leadership capability, and challenges current practices.
• Implements performance management, attendance, staffing, and training; provides coaching and feedback.
• Promotes safe work practices and regulatory compliance (OSHA and applicable standards).

Qualifications

• 5+ years of progressively responsible management experience in engineering or manufacturing; preferably aerospace or defense.
• BS/BA in Engineering, Business, or related field.
• Knowledge of production control, manufacturing processes, and tooling within a business unit.
• Demonstrated cost management in functional areas such as assembly, manufacturing engineering, and materials.
• Strong consulting and coaching skills; ability to present ideas clearly and simply.
• ERP systems and/or other financial/operational software proficiency.
• Some travel required (<10%).
• Strong working knowledge of quality standards (ISO/AS9100).
• Results-oriented with analytical skills and track record of process improvement in large teams (Six Sigma, Lean).
• Excellent problem solving, organizational, verbal & written communication skills.
• Business acumen with a continuous improvement mindset; attention to regulatory requirements.
• Ability to motivate teams and manage multiple projects within tight timeframes.
• High energy, flexible hours, and team-oriented approach.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree and/or executive management program is desirable.
• Lean or Six Sigma certification preferred.
• 5+ years of management experience overseeing 150+ individuals.

Employment Details

• Employment type: Full-time
• Seniority level: Director