What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Operations position at Confidential?
About the Role
We are seeking a Director of Operations to lead and optimize our aerospace and defense manufacturing operations. This individual will be responsible for driving operational excellence, lean manufacturing initiatives, and performance across our CNC machining, sheet metal fabrication, and special processing operations. The ideal candidate will bring deep experience in regulated manufacturing environments and be well-versed in NADCAP, AS9100, and ISO9001 compliance standards.
This is a critical leadership role reporting directly to the executive team with responsibility for achieving operational targets, building high-performing teams, and ensuring customer satisfaction through quality, delivery, and cost improvements.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead daily operations across machining, assembly, and special process departments to ensure on-time delivery and top-tier quality.
- Implement and sustain Lean Manufacturing principles, continuous improvement initiatives, and cost-reduction strategies.
- Oversee and ensure compliance with NADCAP, AS9100, and ISO9001 certifications and audits.
- Act as a turnaround specialist, identifying bottlenecks, streamlining workflows, and driving measurable improvements in cycle time and throughput.
- Partner with Quality, Engineering, and Supply Chain teams to improve end-to-end performance.
- Develop, mentor, and grow operational leaders while fostering a culture of accountability, safety, and excellence.
- Drive strategic investments in automation, CNC machining optimization, and advanced manufacturing technologies.
- Provide executive-level reporting on KPIs, operational risks, and opportunities for improvement.
- Collaborate with Program Management and Business Development to ensure customer requirements are met and exceeded.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, or related field (Master’s preferred).
- 10 years of progressive leadership experience in aerospace & defense manufacturing, with direct oversight of CNC machining and/or special processing operations.
- Strong knowledge of NADCAP, AS9100, and ISO9001 compliance frameworks.
- Proven success in lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and turnaround/change management.
- Hands-on experience improving operational metrics: lead time, scrap, rework, OTD, and cost of quality.
- Executive presence with strong communication, leadership, and decision-making skills.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, customer-driven environment.
Why Join Us
- Play a pivotal role in shaping the future of an elite aerospace & defense manufacturer.
- Lead high-impact turnaround initiatives and deliver results that matter to the industry and our customers.
- Be part of a culture that values excellence, accountability, and innovation.
Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Employee discount
- Flexible schedule
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Referral program
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- What are your salary expectations for this role?
- How many years have you been a Director of Operations or above for an elite CNC Manufactuing shop focused on aerospace and defense production (please explain)?
- How many years of experience do you have overseeing NADCAP, AS9100, and ISO9001 (please explain)?
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Fullerton, CA 92835
