Operations Specialist AWS first shift

Woodward; Fort Collins (CO); On-site; USD 43,000 - 56,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

401(k) match

Stock contribution

Tuition reimbursement and training

12 paid holidays

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Paid time off

Parental leave

Adoption assistance

Employee assistance program

Life insurance and AD&D

Referral bonus

Flexible Spending

Other voluntary benefits

Job summary

Woodward's Fort Collins operations are seeking an Operations Specialist II to support daily manufacturing, drive continuous improvement, and resolve complex production issues. You will apply advanced manufacturing methods and quality standards to deliver safe, high-quality output.

The role emphasizes technical execution, problem solving, and collaboration across teams, with a strong focus on safety and efficient production systems.

Qualifications

• Advanced knowledge of manufacturing methods, quality standards, and production systems.
• Ability to execute technical processes and ensure safe, high-quality output.

Responsibilities

• Execute technical processes to ensure efficient daily operations across multiple areas.
• Drive continuous improvement and apply effective approaches to new assignments.
• Perform root-cause analysis and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
• Resolve complex operational issues using a systematic problem-solving approach.
• Support safety protocols and maintain a safe working environment.

Skills

CNC machining

Precision assembly

Test equipment

AS9100/ISO 9001

GD&T blueprints

Process mapping

Root cause analysis

Lean/continuous improvement

Problem solving

Communication

Tools

Measuring tools

CMM knowledge

Quality systems

Job description

Woodward is committed to creating a great workplace for all team members. Our company and its members are committed to acting with integrity, being respectful and accountable to one another, and staying humble and driven, while maintaining the highest professional and ethical standards.

We are steadfastly committed to attracting the best talent across our communities, creating a rewarding workplace. Together we are fulfilling our purpose to design and deliver energy control solutions our partners count on to power a clean future.

Woodward supports our members' wellbeing and regularly benchmarks with other companies in our industry to offer an extensive Total Reward package for this position. Salary will be determined by the applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data.

Operations Specialist II

Woodward's Industrial Product Division in Fort Collins, Colorado is seeking an Operations Specialist to join their team. The Operations Specialist supports daily manufacturing operations by executing technical processes, resolving complex production issues, and driving continuous improvement across multiple areas. This role uses advanced knowledge of manufacturing methods, quality standards, and production systems to support efficient, safe, and high-quality output.

Level 2: Estimated hourly base rate: $31.25-$40.38

Benefits

• All members included in annual cash bonus opportunity.
• 401(k) match (4.5%)
• Annual Woodward stock contribution (5%)
• Tuition reimbursement and Training/Professional Development opportunities for all members
• 12 paid holidays
• Industry leading medical, dental, and vision Insurance upon date of hire
• Vacation / Sick Time / Vacation Buy-up / Short Term Disability / Bereavement leave.
• Paid parental leave.
• Adoption Assistance
• Employee Assistance Program, including mental health benefits.
• Member Life & AD&D / Long Term Disability / Member Optional Life
• Member referral bonus
• Spouse / Child Optional Life / Optional AD&D / Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending
• Voluntary benefits, including: Home / Auto Insurance discounts
• Whole Life Insurance / Critical Illness Insurance / Legal Assistance / Military Leave

Key Responsibilities

• Execute Technical Processes: Implements and maintains technical procedures to ensure efficient daily operations in multiple areas/processes.
• Continuous Improvement: Determines and applies appropriate approaches for new assignments and enhances existing methodologies to improve effectiveness.
• Quality: Timely disposition and applies complex root cause analysis for production problems. Implements corrective actions across similar processes to prevent recurrence.
• Resolve Complex Issues: Utilizes a common systematic approach in problem solving to provide solutions for atypical or infrequent operational problems based on established guidelines.
• Safety Mindset: Adheres to, actively supports, and implements improvements to established safety protocols, procedures, and regulatory requirements; maintains mindfulness of self and surrounding work area to promote a safe working environment.

Key Skills

• Technical Knowledge: Advanced understanding of complex manufacturing processes (e.g., CNC machining, precision assembly, or test equipment). Knowledge of AS9100 or ISO 9001 quality standards. Utilizes advanced blueprint and GD&T understanding to suggest improvements to engineering drawings, BOMs, and specifications.
• Analytical Skills: Expertise in applying analytical methodologies to operational processes. Experience with process mapping, value stream analysis, and root cause tools (5 Whys, Fishbone diagrams). Supports continuous improvement initiatives.
• Mechanical Aptitude: Utilize advanced understanding of manufacturing processes (mechanical disassembly/reassembly, CNC machine operations, testing) to support and mentor operations members. Advanced skill with mechanical tools and measurement instruments and mechanical components. Understanding how tooling impacts repeatability, precision, and cycle time. Advanced knowledge of mechanical techniques and processes.
• Communication: Communicates actively with all key stakeholders to support workflow and drive resolution to immediate issues. Clearly conveys (verbal and written) advanced technical information and ideas effectively across teams and departments throughout the organization. Demonstrates Woodward's Core Values
• Time Management: Prioritizes tasks effectively to meet deadlines and manage workload efficiently. Manages multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring timely completion and alignment with objectives.
• Lean Mindset: Identifies opportunities to enhance operational workflows and implements effective solutions. Participation in improvement projects to solve complex manufacturing issues. Ability to quantify impact (e.g., cost savings, productivity gains, quality improvements).
• Production Systems: Champions standardized work and provides timely support