Director of Operations – Manufacturing

Compensation: 125000.

-140000. / Annually

Our client, a global leader in precision engineered solutions and hardware, has an immediate need for an experienced Director of Operations
, to join their winning team in Rochester.

Our candidate of choice will oversee the end-to-end manufacturing, supply chain, and quality operations for high-reliability power electronics and control systems. You will be responsible for delivering mission-critical products to highly regulated industries, including semiconductor equipment, medical devices, and aerospace/defense, where precision, compliance, and reliability are paramount. You will act as a “player-coach,” blending high-level strategic oversight with hands‑on operational management to drive efficiency, mitigate risks, and foster a culture of continuous improvement.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Oversee daily operations of electronics assembly, final box build, functional testing, and burn-in processes to ensure 100% reliability of power electronics and control units built to IPC standards (e.g., IPC-A-610 and J-STD-001).
• Manage the value‑add engineering panel and sub‑assembly shop, translating custom engineering requirements into high‑quality products while optimizing labor, equipment, and resource utilization to handle fluctuating demand across market sectors.
• Develop and implement production schedules, strategies, and process improvements to meet targets, reduce cycle times, and eliminate waste in a high‑mix, low‑to‑medium volume environment.
• Lead the Quality Management System (QMS), including internal audits, Corrective and Preventive Actions (CAPA), and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Serve as the primary lead for maintaining and renewing ISO 9001:2015, ISO 13485, and/or AS9100 certifications, ensuring audit readiness and representation during external registrar or customer audits.
• Enforce cascading requirements, such as “Copy Exact!” (CE!) protocols for semiconductor clients, flow‑downs of contractual terms, and adherence to industry standards like FDA, NADCAP, and customer‑specific regulations.
• Manage strategic relationships with Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers, including identification, auditing, and oversight for critical components, PCBA fabrication, and services.
• Direct all materials management, including procurement, shipping/receiving, kitting, inventory control (e.g., cycle counting and warehouse organization), and alignment with production schedules to prevent bottlenecks.
• Develop risk mitigation strategies for long lead times, component obsolescence, and supply chain disruptions common in the power electronics industry.
• Lead multi‑disciplinary teams across production, engineering, logistics, procurement, and quality functions, fostering collaboration and professional development.
• Champion Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other initiatives to enhance competitive positioning, profitability, and customer satisfaction while maintaining safety and regulatory compliance.
• Manage budgets, analyze manufacturing execution issues, and implement solutions to ensure consistent product delivery and operational excellence.

KEY REQUIREMENTS:

• 8+ years in operations or manufacturing management within the electronics industry, with a proven track record in power electronics, industrial controls, or similar high‑reliability products.
• Deep technical knowledge of power electronics (high voltage/current), control systems, electronic test methodologies, and standards like IPC‑A‑610.
• Experience in highly regulated industries such as semiconductor (Copy Exact), medical (FDA/ISO 13485), or aerospace/defense (AS9100/NADCAP).
• Direct experience managing ISO certifications, rigorous change control, and QMS oversight.
• Demonstrated leadership in managing cross‑functional teams and proficiency in ERP/MRP systems (e.g., MS Dynamics, SAP, Oracle, or Net Suite).
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Supply Chain Management, or a related technical field; advanced degree (e.g., MBA) preferred.
• Lean Six Sigma Green or Black Belt certification preferred.
• Strong understanding of soldering and inspection standards (e.g., J‑STD‑001) preferred.
• Familiarity with advanced manufacturing technologies and strategies for scaling operations in electronics manufacturing preferred.
• This role involves a combination of office‑based strategic planning and hands‑on oversight on the manufacturing floor, which may include exposure to noise, chemicals, and machinery requiring personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Occasional lifting or handling of equipment up to 50 lbs may be required, along with standing or walking for extended periods.
• Travel (up to 20%) may be necessary for supplier audits, customer meetings, or industry conferences.
• The position is primarily onsite to support operational needs, with potential for limited hybrid flexibility depending on business requirements.