Operations/Engineer Manager

We are a leading Electronics Manufacturing Services (EMS) provider specializing in high-mix, low-to-medium volume Printed Circuit Board Assembly (PCBA) and complex electromechanical box-build manufacturing. Our organization supports a diverse portfolio of customers across the industrial, medical, aerospace, and defense sectors, delivering high-quality turnkey manufacturing solutions with a strong commitment to operational excellence and customer satisfaction.

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced and results-oriented Operations Manager to lead manufacturing operations at our Phoenix facility. This individual will be responsible for translating strategic objectives into operational execution, ensuring production activities are conducted safely, efficiently, and in accordance with the highest quality standards.

The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in high-mix, low-to-medium volume electronics manufacturing, with proven expertise in PCBA, turnkey manufacturing, and box-build operations. Working cross-functionally with production, engineering, quality, supply chain, and customer-facing teams, the Operations Manager will drive operational performance, enhance customer satisfaction, and support sustainable business growth.

Key Responsibilities

Production Management & Scheduling

• Develop and manage the master production schedule to ensure on-time delivery while effectively balancing labor capacity, material availability, and equipment utilization.
• Oversee daily manufacturing operations to maximize productivity, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
• Collaborate with Engineering and Production teams to support successful New Product Introduction (NPI) activities and transition products from prototype to full-scale production.
• Monitor production performance and proactively address bottlenecks to meet operational goals and customer commitments.

Quality & Regulatory Compliance

• Ensure compliance with IPC-A-610, J-STD-001, and other applicable industry workmanship standards.
• Maintain adherence to ISO 9001 quality management requirements, ESD controls, and product traceability standards.
• Lead root cause investigations and corrective action initiatives related to production defects, non-conformances, and process deviations.
• Support compliance with ISO 13485 (Medical Devices), AS9100 (Aerospace & Defense), and ITAR regulations; prior experience in these environments is highly desirable.

Operational Excellence & Continuous Improvement

• Drive Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives to reduce waste, improve productivity, and enhance product quality.
• Monitor and analyze key operational metrics, including:
  • Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE)
  • First Pass Yield (FPY)
  • Scrap and rework rates
  • Cycle times
  • On-time delivery performance
  • Quality performance indicators
• Implement process improvements that support cost reduction and operational scalability.

Team Leadership & Workforce Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop production supervisors, technicians, assemblers, and support staff.
• Foster a culture of safety, accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
• Manage workforce planning, training programs, staffing requirements, certifications, and performance evaluations.
• Partner with Human Resources and leadership teams to support hiring and organizational growth initiatives.

Materials, Inventory & Supply Chain Management

• Coordinate closely with Procurement, Planning, and Warehouse teams to ensure material availability and production readiness.
• Monitor inventory accuracy and support effective inventory control practices.
• Ensure efficient warehouse operations and maintenance programs that support production objectives.
• Identify and mitigate risks related to material shortages and supply chain disruptions.

Qualifications & Experience

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Manufacturing Management, Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, or a related technical discipline preferred.

Experience

• Minimum of 5 years of progressive operations or production management experience within an EMS, PCBA, or contract electronics manufacturing environment.
• Advanced knowledge of IPC-A-610
• Demonstrated success leading high-mix, low-to-medium volume manufacturing operations.
• Experience with turnkey manufacturing and electromechanical box-build production strongly preferred.

Technical Expertise

• Working knowledge of:
  • Surface Mount Technology (SMT) processes
  • Pick-and-place equipment
  • Reflow soldering systems
  • Automated Optical Inspection (AOI)
  • Electronic testing and manufacturing equipment
• Strong understanding of manufacturing best practices and operational performance metrics.

Quality & Compliance Knowledge

• In-depth familiarity with:
  • IPC standards
  • ESD control programs
  • ISO 9001 quality systems
• Experience with AS9100, ISO 13485, and ITAR-regulated environments is a plus.

Systems & Software

• Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems and Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES).
• Strong analytical skills with experience using data to drive operational decisions and performance improvements.

Leadership Competencies

• Proven ability to build, lead, and motivate high-performing teams.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and conflict resolution skills.
• Strategic mindset combined with a hands-on leadership approach.
• Commitment to operational excellence and customer satisfaction.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Frequent standing and walking throughout production facilities.
• Manual dexterity required for handling electronic assemblies and components.
• Ability to occasionally lift and move materials weighing up to 35 pounds.