Job Description
We are seeking a highly experienced and strategic Senior Operations Manager to lead the production operations of a manufacturing facility focused on generator enclosures, encompassing metal fabrication, welding, industrial painting, and final assembly. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in industrial manufacturing, demonstrated leadership in high-mix, low-to-medium volume production environments, and a passion for operational excellence, safety, and team development.
Operational Leadership
- Oversee daily plant operations across all departments: fabrication, welding, painting, and final assembly.
- Ensure production targets, quality standards, and delivery schedules are met or exceeded.
- Monitor workflow and production schedules to optimize efficiency and minimize downtime.
- Coordinate with planning and procurement to ensure material availability and inventory control.
Team Management
- Lead, coach, and develop a cross-functional team including supervisors, welders, fabricators, painters, assemblers and support staff.
- Establish clear performance expectations and promote a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
- Ensure workforce training and cross-training to maintain operational flexibility.
Quality Assurance & Compliance
- Partner with Quality and Engineering teams to maintain high-quality standards through all phases of production.
- Enforce compliance with internal procedures and external regulatory requirements
- Implement corrective actions and preventive measures to address quality and process issues.
Process Improvement
- Identify and implement opportunities for streamlining and process optimization.
- Lead or support initiatives to reduce waste, improve cycle times, and enhance safety.
- Support or lead CAPEX projects related to equipment upgrades or layout improvements.
Health & Safety
- Champion a safe working environment through effective safety programs and continuous education.
- Ensure regular safety audits, training, and compliance with site safety procedures and regulations.
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Operations Management, or related field.
- (MBA or related master’s degree is a plus.)
- 7–10 years of experience in a manufacturing leadership role, with hands-on knowledge of metal fabrication, welding, industrial painting and mechanical assembly.
- Proven ability to lead teams in a make-to-order or engineer-to-order environment.
- Strong knowledge of lean manufacturing principles, root cause analysis, and continuous improvement methodologies.
- Experience working with ERP systems for job cost based production
- Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Familiarity with welding certifications, paint/coating standards and assembly best practices.
- Experience in fabrication of custom or heavy-duty enclosures for power generation or industrial equipment.