Operations Manager

About Key Technology

Key Technology has been providing innovative solutions to the food industry since 1948. We are a global leader in the design and manufacture of food processing technology. Products range from conveying, digital sorting, and process automation technology. Our ongoing innovations provide increased control, continuous processing and longer machine life–in processed fruits and vegetables, nuts, dried fruit, fresh-cut produce and more. Here we continually strive to find and fulfill our customers’ growing needs.

As the Operations Manager you will be responsible for planning and managing day-to-day activities within the Walla Walla manufacturing facility. You will provide leadership to the Production Managers and cross‑functional team members, while ensuring quality standards and the safe productive operation of all manufacturing activities. You will lead the development and execution of strategic initiatives and tactical project plans that drive operational excellence, optimize performance, and consistently exceed customer expectations.

• Identifies and communicates key responsibilities and practices to ensure direct reports exhibit successful attitude, confidence in leadership, and teamwork to achieve business results.
• Leads the team to ensure business growth and meet or exceed customer expectations through continuous improvement of manufacturing operations.
• Develops and executes strategic operational processes, policies, procedures, and measurements to achieve financial and service objectives.
• Plans and manages business and resource requirements, including production labor and equipment, based on the shipping forecast. Ensures alignment with business goals and objectives.
• Coordinates production activities with procurement, maintenance, and engineering activities to obtain optimum production and utilization of human resources, machines, and equipment.
• Reviews manufacturing performance with regard to shipment volume, factory margin, and expense trends.
• Maintains production data, conducts meetings with stakeholders to inform current project status and shipping dates.
• Prepares, communicates and educates team on changes in policies and practices within the organization.
• Participates in design reviews for custom and standard equipment. Provides direction and feedback on product safety, manufacturability and cost‑related issues.
• Ensures workplace safety and addresses safety issues promptly and completely.
• Develops and implements operating methods and procedures designed to eliminate operating problems and improve product quality. Identifies continuous improvement opportunities.
• Provides interface between Sales and Manufacturing to determining lead‑time for orders still in negotiation.
• Manages manufacturing schedule to support improved productivity and reliability.
• Provides in house support for Field Service and Parts Sales.
• Conducts and ensures the completion of employee training, matrix completion, and performance reviews.
• Encourages employee involvement on cross‑functional teams and elicits feedback. Supports suggestions to improve costs, quality, efficiency, and service.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor's degree (B. S.) in Engineering or related field; or six to ten years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• A minimum of five years’ experience in a manufacturing environment with an emphasis on supervision is required.
• NDT certified to inspect welding.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work well in a team environment are basic requirements of this position.
• Proficient in the use of word processing and spreadsheet software, preferably Microsoft Word and Excel. Working knowledge of Microsoft AX software is also required.

• Key Technology offers a competitive benefits package for all full‑time employees, including:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) or Health Savings Accounts (HSA), when allowed by tax law
  • Paid life insurance and disability insurance, with options to purchase additional coverage
  • Paid Maternity/Paternity Leave
  • Optional…