Director of Operations

Ats - Irvine, CA

Full-time - Senior

Irvine, CA

Truck Transportation

About the position

The Director of Operations will oversee multiple departments including Supply Chain, Material Control, Sci Ops, Facilities, Project Management, Continuous Improvement, Quality & HSE, and all Assembly and Manufacturing personnel. This role is responsible for providing strategic and tactical direction to ensure effective execution of product and project activities, with a strong emphasis on safety, quality, and productivity throughout the equipment lifecycle.

Responsibilities

• Lead department leaders and supervisors to achieve operational objectives.
• Serve as part of the senior leadership team, guiding strategic and tactical business decisions.
• Manage operational P&L for a $35M yearly revenue business, focusing on safety, quality, delivery, and productivity.
• Drive continuous improvement in tools, practices, quality, and lead time across all execution processes.
• Utilize ABM (ATS Business Model) to enhance key business processes and reporting.
• Execute strategic ABM and continuous improvement activities, including Kaizen and problem-solving exercises.
• Partner with department leaders to review KPIs and implement daily visual management for improvement activities.
• Drive daily business activities to meet targets set in the annual operating plan (AOP).
• Support local and corporate leadership in resource and technology transfers, team development, and transparent communication.
• Identify and address weaknesses and issues proactively through risk management.
• Oversee CAPEX plans and resource loading, including overtime and hiring approvals.
• Maintain equipment according to PM schedules and manage facility-related activities with contractors.
• Drive recruitment efforts focused on internal promotions from technical colleges to senior management.
• Manage ISO and HSE systems, audits, and compliance, aiming for ISO9001 certification.
• Ensure 100% compliance with employee training schedules.
• Support customer dialogue in new quote production and use VoC to drive business improvements.
• Act as a technical liaison with other ATS divisions.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering, or equivalent field.
• Minimum of ten years' experience in an Operational or Site leadership role with multi-discipline reports, preferably in medical or pharmaceutical automation.
• Strong proficiency in CAD, leadership, team development, resource management, and continuous improvement.
• Proficient in computer programs such as SolidWorks, ERP systems (e.g., JD Edwards), PLM software, Windows, Excel, MS Outlook, and Pipedrive.
• Strong knowledge of fabrication and assembly machinery, including inspection tools.
• Background in lean and continuous improvement methodologies, with various certifications being a plus.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in medical or pharmaceutical automation is preferred.
• Certifications in lean and continuous improvement methodologies.

Benefits

• Health insurance
• 401k plan
• Paid holidays
• Professional development opportunities