The Operations Manager is a critical leadership role responsible for the overall planning, direction, and coordination of all manufacturing operations related to Surface Mount Technology (SMT) and microelectronics packaging. This position ensures efficient, high-quality, and cost-effective production in a fast-paced, high-volume environment, adhering to stringent aerospace and defense industry standards (e.g., AS9100, IPC standards). The Operations Manager will lead a team driving continuous improvement, optimizing processes, and ensuring on-time delivery of products. This role is a key liaison between Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, and Program Management.

Responsibilities:

• Leadership & Team Management:

  • Lead, mentor, and develop a team including Production Managers, Engineers, Assembly Operators, and Test Technicians.

  • Manage performance, provide coaching, and conduct performance reviews.

  • Foster a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

  • Ensure adequate staffing levels and training to meet production demands.

• Production Planning & Execution:

  • Monitor production progress, identify and resolve bottlenecks, and ensure on-time delivery.

  • Manage and optimize SMT lines, including pick-and-place machines, reflow ovens, screen printers, and inspection equipment.

  • Oversee microelectronics packaging processes (e.g., wire bonding, flip chip, mold).

  • Drive efficiency improvements through lean manufacturing principles and process optimization.

• Quality & Compliance:

  • Ensure all manufacturing processes adhere to AS9100, IPC standards, and customer-specific requirements.

  • Work closely with the Quality team to investigate and resolve quality issues.

  • Implement and maintain robust process controls and documentation.

  • Manage and participate in internal and external audits.

• Cost Management:

  • Be a part of Operations budget setting and manage costs in own area.

  • Identify and implement cost reduction initiatives.

  • Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as yield, throughput, and cost per unit.

• Supply Chain Coordination: Work closely with supply chain to ensure material availability to meet production schedules and mitigate risk.

• EHS Management: Ensure a safe and compliant work environment, adhering to all environmental, health and safety regulations.

• Education: Bachelor's degree required. Master's degree preferred.

• Experience:

  • Minimum 7+ years of experience in a manufacturing environment, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.

  • Experience working in a bargaining unit environment

  • Proven experience in SMT and microelectronics packaging technologies.

  • Strong understanding of aerospace and defense industry standards (AS9100, IPC-A-610).

  • Demonstrated experience with high-volume manufacturing processes.

  • Experience with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES).

• Skills:

  • Strong leadership and team management skills.

  • Excellent problem-solving and analytical abilities.

  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

  • Proficiency in Lean Manufacturing principles.

  • Knowledge of statistical process control (SPC).

  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and specifications.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Must be able to obtain Secret security clearance.

• Experience working in a regulated aerospace and defense environment.

• Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or Black Belt).

• Project management experience.

• Experience with automated optical inspection (AOI) and X-ray inspection technologies.

• Familiarity with failure analysis techniques.

• Experience with process validation and qualification.

• Knowledge of supply chain management best practices