Senior Manager of Operations/Plant Manager

Elevated Materials collects and upcycles carbon fiber from local aerospace companies. We use this material to create a range of different products across many different industries.

This role is considered a leadership role and will be expected to lead entry and mid level team members as well as communicate with higher management.

Full job description

Job Summary:

The Senior Manager of Operations supervises the CNC, Composites, and Facilities Teams to ensure efficient production and quality control. Technical skills with CNC equipment, manufacturing software, and experience in Lean Manufacturing and process improvement are required. This hands-on leadership role is responsible for driving production efficiency, quality, and team performance while reducing waste and optimizing workflows.

Experience Requirements

• Multiple years of experience running a production facility, clothing, CNC, or similar
• Experience hiring technicians, managers,
• Background in CNC Operations/Programming

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Supervision

• Lead, schedule, and supervise CNC machinists and programmers.
• Lead, schedule, and supervise Composites Technicians and Pressing.
• Train and mentor team members on best practices in CNC machining, composites manufacturing, and lean principles.
• Foster a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous learning.
• Identifies needs for new hires and training opportunities. Leads the interview process and sets the training schedule.
• Quarterly review meetings with the team and upper management

Production & Process Management

• Manage shop floor workflow to meet or exceed production targets.
• Identify and eliminate production bottlenecks using Lean tools (e.g., 5S, Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping).
• Analyze operational data to implement standard work practices and drive efficiency through data analysis.
• Coordinate with department managers to create and update SOPs

Continuous Improvement & Lean Manufacturing

• Lead, contribute, and support initiatives to reduce waste, streamline cycle times, and improve product quality.
• Apply Lean Manufacturing methodologies, including 5S, SMED, Kanban, and root cause analysis (RCA).
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop and implement process improvements and cost reduction measures.
• Coordinate with department managers to create and update SOPs
• Leads training of new hires and existing employees to conform to department standards and production needs

Quality Control

• Meet all specs, tolerances, and quality standards.
• Collaborate with QA and possibly Engineering to resolve non-conformances and set corrective actions.
• Oversee inspections and improve quality systems.

Software & Systems

• Manage SOPs in Confluence
• Work within ERP/MRP systems for scheduling, inventory, and work orders.
• Track machine utilization, downtime, and performance.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, Manufacturing, related discipline, or equivalent certifications or practical experience.
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in a people management role. Leadership and accountability are a must in this role.
• Background in Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma methodologies.
• Experience working in regulated industries such as aerospace, medical devices, or automotive.

Soft Skills:

• Leadership and team-building skills.
• Effective communication and organizational abilities.
• Strong an

Schedule:

• Regular: 40-50hrs/week - 8 AM - 4:30 PM
• Training: Matches training schedule for new hires and existing employees as needed
• Availability: Regularly attends scheduled weekly team meetings. Sets meetings with the CNC and Composites Teams within working hours.

Compensation & Benefits:

• $80,000-$110,000
• Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance (100% Company paid)
• PTO
• Option to enroll in Cal Savers Retirement Savings Plan
• Leadership Advancement Opportunities

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person