Production Director
$130,000–$150,000 year
On-siteFountain Valley, California, United States
Job Summary
Direct day-to-day final assembly operations across California and Texas manufacturing facilities, developing production plans and enforcing standardized operating procedures. Lead, mentor, and develop production managers while partnering with HR to recruit and retain top manufacturing talent. Own product quality outcomes by resolving non-conformances and driving root cause analysis, implementing Lean and Six Sigma initiatives to reduce cycle time. Collaborate with Supply Chain and Engineering to manage material availability and support New Product Introduction activities. Develop and manage production operating budgets, monitor cost-of-quality metrics, and execute capital investment proposals. Serve as the primary operations liaison to senior leadership, providing performance briefings and representing operations in customer meetings and audits. Requires approximately 50% travel between sites, a valid driver's license, and the ability to fly domestically.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, Industrial Technology, or a related field
- Minimum 10 years of progressive manufacturing leadership experience
- At least 5 years in a director-level or equivalent role
- Demonstrated experience managing final assembly operations in an electronics, electromechanical, or advanced technology manufacturing environment
- Proven track record overseeing multi-site production operations
- Experience with California and/or Texas facilities
- Background in high-mix, low-to-medium volume manufacturing environments
- Deep knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, 5S, Kaizen, and Six Sigma methodologies
- Green Belt or Black Belt certification
- Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems (SAP, Oracle, NetSuite, or equivalent) for production planning and scheduling
- Strong understanding of electronics assembly processes, IPC standards, and PCB or electromechanical integration
- Familiarity with ISO 9001, UL, CE, or other relevant quality management standards
- Exceptional leadership presence with the ability to inspire and align distributed teams around shared goals
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; data-driven approach to decision-making
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Comfortable presenting to C-suite and Board-level stakeholders
- High degree of adaptability and effectiveness in ambiguous, fast-moving environments
- Approximately 50% travel between sites
- Valid driver's license
- Ability to fly domestically
- Some international travel may be required based on supply chain needs
- Must be able to stand for extended periods
- Must be able to navigate assembly areas safely
- Must wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) as required by site safety policies
Desired Qualifications
- Master's Degree (MBA or MS in Engineering/Operations)
- Experience with California and/or Texas facilities
- Background in high-mix, low-to-medium volume manufacturing environments
- Green Belt or Black Belt certification
- SAP, Oracle, NetSuite, or equivalent ERP/MRP systems
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