Operations Manager

Vaupell Northeast, Agawam, MA

Vaupell designs, engineers, and produces custom, high performance engineered plastic and composite components and assemblies for demanding applications. We are the global market leader in plastic components and assemblies for aircraft interiors while also serving the broader aerospace, defense and medical device & diagnostic markets. Vaupell provides engineered solutions to top tier OEM’s, market-leading growth companies, and promising start-ups. Collaboration with our customers in all phases of the product life cycle results in the highest value solutions that reduce time to market, manage risk and control costs.

As the Operations Manager, you will oversee the day-to-day operational activities of the facility ensuring efficient execution of processes by managing staff, optimizing resource allocation, monitoring performance metrics, and identifying areas for improvement to maximize productivity and achieve organization goals. This role is a member of the site leadership team, with the production Supervisors reporting directly to the role. The Operations Manager oversees all aspects of safety, quality, delivery, and cost performance in the manufacturing areas. The role emphasizes the efficient utilization of existing and newly developed processes, applying sound management principles to drive continuous improvement, operational excellence, and optimal production performance.

Essential Duties and responsibilities

• Maintain a safe work environment while producing quality products that adhere to customer and company standards.
• Lead and actively participate in Kaizen/Lean initiatives to enhance process controls and reduce waste.
• Collaborate with committees, special project teams, and the operations management to optimize departmental performance.
• Ensure adherence to process control procedures, operating instructions, and quality standards to meet customer specifications.
• Achieve scrap acceptance levels and drive the application of SIM molding techniques across the department.
• Facilitate product development initiatives, collaborating with machining, sales, engineering, quality, and assembly departments.
• Develop expertise in polymer processing, product design, assembly and process control, integrating cutting-edge technologies into manufacturing operations.
• Monitor and ensure the attainment of targeted cycle times and budgeted product costs.
• Develop, track, and report key manufacturing performance metrics.
• Lead the development, training, and performance management of team members, setting goals and ensuring continuous improvement.
• Foster a culture of trust, cooperation, and high morale, while maintaining focus on efficiency, productivity, and quality.
• Plan, organize, and supervise shift operations to meet production schedules in a cost-effective manner.
• Ensure compliance with Vaupell quality certifications and all company policies and procedures.
• Oversee adherence to governmental safety regulations and Vaupell’s internal safety policies.
• Mentor and guide employees, both technically and professionally, fostering a learning environment across all levels.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop and implement improvements to molding operations.
• Address employee complaints and resolve conflicts in a fair and timely manner.
• Uphold and promote company policies, ensuring all employees are trained and comply with safety, quality, and operational standards.
• Maintain a focus on continuous improvement by implementing Six “S” principles.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Job Qualifications/Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in manufacturing, preferably in plastic injection molding and/or assembly.
• 5 - 7 years’ experience in a leadership position or supervisory experience within a manufacturing environment
• Experience with AS9100 and ISO 9001 is preferred.
• Proficiency in IQMS or similar process/production monitoring systems (ERP) is a plus.
• Ability to interpret and apply financial data to assess and improve operational performance.
• Strong communication, leadership, and teamwork skills with a proven ability to resolve conflicts effectively.
• High ethical standards and integrity in business practices.
• Experience in planning, directing, and evaluating employee performance.
• Ability to read and interpret technical documents, including scientific, financial, and legal materials.
• Proficiency in computer software and data entry with an advance knowledge and experience on Microsoft Office Suite.
• Excellent problem-solving skills, with the ability to analyze data, identify issues, and implement corrective actions.
• Strong background in Lean principles and/or Six Sigma.
• Candidates must be a “US Person” (i.e. US Citizen or Permanent Resident) to ensure Vaupell's compliance with ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) and EAR (Export Administration Regulations)

Competencies crucial for success in the role

• Displays professional standards
• Develops others
• Inspires and engages
• Holds people accountable
• Influences others