Director of Manufacturing Operations

Delta Research Corporation • Full-time • Connecticut, United States, US • 3d ago

MUST BE A U.S. CITIZEN OR HAVE PERMANENT RESIDENCY

Position Summary

The Director of Operations will have a deep technical understanding of advanced manufacturing processes—including CNC machining, grinding, and metrology—is essential. The Director must ensure precision, repeatability, and efficiency in operations while implementing best practices in process control, quality assurance, and automation.

The Director of Operations is a hands-on leader who will drive manufacturing performance, efficiency, and growth across two facilities. This role requires an energetic change agent who thrives in high-performance environments, builds strong cross-functional relationships, and leads by example to instill a culture of continuous improvement, teamwork, and accountability.

Key Responsibilities

Transformational Leadership & Change Management

Serve as a hands-on leader and change agent, setting the tone for a culture of engagement, collaboration, and operational excellence.
Inspire, coach, and mentor teams to embrace innovation, continuous improvement, and accountability at all levels.
Lead from the front, engaging directly with employees on the shop floor and in key operational initiatives.
Foster a collaborative work environment that encourages teamwork, open communication, and a shared commitment to success.

Operational Leadership & Strategy

Oversee end-to-end manufacturing operations across two facilities, ensuring alignment with business objectives.
Develop and execute Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement strategies, leveraging Hoshin Kanri and X-Matrix strategic deployment frameworks.
Implement and oversee SQDIP (Safety, Quality, Delivery, Inventory, Productivity) Daily Management Systems to drive real-time performance visibility and decision-making.
Drive cross-functional collaboration between operations, engineering, supply chain, and quality to optimize production flow and efficiency.
Champion operational problem-solving methodologies, including root cause analysis, A3 problem solving, and structured kaizen events.

Manufacturing Process & Technical Expertise

Optimize CNC machining, grinding, and metrology processes to ensure precision, repeatability, and efficiency.
Oversee and refine Computer Numerical Control (CNC) operations, multi-axis machining, and precision grinding technologies.
Champion process control methodologies, including real-time metrology, in-process inspection, and on-floor Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) integration.
Drive automation and digital manufacturing initiatives to enhance throughput and operational efficiency.
Work closely with engineering teams to refine machining tolerances, tool path optimization, and advanced programming.

Financial & Performance Optimization

Establish and track Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) that provide real-time operational insights to drive data-based decision-making.
Optimize manufacturing processes to improve cost structures, margin performance, and EBITDA contributions.
Oversee budgeting and cost control measures to maximize operational efficiency while maintaining quality and safety standards.
Develop inventory management strategies that balance working capital with production demands.

Supply Chain & Logistics Strategy

Oversee end-to-end supply chain functions, ensuring timely procurement, inventory control, and vendor management.
Develop and implement logistics strategies to optimize material flow, equipment utilization, and workforce planning.
Ensure compliance with regulatory, customer, and internal quality requirements.

Employee Engagement & Workforce Development

Drive employee engagement by creating an inclusive and motivating work environment where people feel valued and invested in company success.
Mentor and develop future leaders, ensuring robust succession planning and workforce development programs.
Implement a cross-training matrix to enhance workforce versatility and operational agility.
Lead change management initiatives, ensuring team alignment and adoption of new processes, systems, and best practices.
Foster a culture of accountability and empowerment, where employees take ownership of their roles and contribute to organizational success.

Qualifications & Experience

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, or a related field (Master’s preferred).
10+ years of progressive leadership experience in manufacturing operations, preferably within aerospace, defense, or precision machining.
Proven ability to lead large-scale operational transformations while maintaining high employee engagement and morale.
Deep technical expertise in CNC machining, grinding, and metrology, with the ability to optimize these processes for efficiency and precision.
Strong background in Lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and process improvement initiatives.
Experience in Hoshin Kanri, SQDIP daily management, and structured problem-solving methodologies.
Knowledge of supply chain, procurement, logistics, and quality management systems (AS9100, ISO9001, NADCAP).
Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certification is a plus.
Exceptional ability to drive organizational transformation and culture change.