Position Summary
APS is seeking a hands-on Director of Manufacturing Operations to drive production performance and build the systems, processes, and team capabilities needed to support our next phase of growth. Reporting to senior leadership, this role owns the shop floor, from production planning to quality, safety, and workforce development. While partnering cross-functionally with engineering, supply chain, and commercial teams to deliver for our customers. This role is ideal for a proven manufacturing leader with strong technical fundamentals and a track record of implementing Lean principles in precision or custom manufacturing environments.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee all manufacturing operations across APS's fabrication, automation & controls, and field services production activities
- Drive daily production performance against schedule, quality, cost, and safety targets; establish KPI-driven operating rhythms
- Implement and sustain Lean Manufacturing initiatives: 5S, Kaizen, value stream mapping, standard work, and continuous improvement
- Lead capacity planning, production scheduling, and resource allocation to meet on-time delivery commitments
- Partner with supply chain to align material availability with production requirements and project timelines
- Collaborate with engineering and estimating on manufacturability, job costing, and smooth project execution
- Build, develop, and retain a high-performing manufacturing team; coach and lead supervisors and production leads directly
- Maintain and improve quality systems; ensure compliance with customer specs, safety standards, and applicable regulatory requirements
- Contribute to operational planning, budgeting, and capital expenditure recommendations
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Technology, or related field
- 3+ years of progressive leadership in precision, custom, or specialty manufacturing operations
- Demonstrated success implementing Lean Manufacturing across production teams and processes
- Solid understanding of fabrication, machining, welding, or assembly in a made-to-order or project-based manufacturing environment
- Proven ability to lead teams, drive accountability, and execute in a high-mix, fast-paced production environment
Preferred Experience
- Specialty plastics fabrication, process piping, industrial automation, or control panel manufacturing
- Semiconductor infrastructure, cleanroom, or highly regulated manufacturing environments
- PE-backed, high-growth, or operationally scaling business environments
- ERP-driven production management and shop floor data systems
- Field services operations or project-based manufacturing with variable scope and custom deliverables
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive base salary commensurate with experience
- Performance-based bonus tied to operational and business results
- Comprehensive benefits: health, dental, vision, PTO, and company holidays
- Direct visibility and access to ownership and executive leadership
