Director of Manufacturing Operations

Job Opportunity: Director of Manufacturing Operations – Electro-Optical Systems

We are actively seeking a Director of Manufacturing Operations to lead our dynamic team in Irvine, focusing on System and Module Manufacturing and Test. This strategic role is centered on managing high-performance electro-optical and opto-mechanical assemblies and laser systems production.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and manage budgets and forecasts, ensuring fiscal discipline and performance alignment with the company’s financial objectives.
• Drive strategic initiatives to enhance gross margins and reduce operational costs through integration efforts across sites, capability optimization, and competitive positioning.
• Champion the technical aspects of optical assembly and light source integration, leveraging specialized knowledge in metrology and system testing.
• Oversee comprehensive capacity planning, coordinating closely with Sales and Finance to align capital expenditures, tooling, and staffing with market demands and profitability goals.
• Implement and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to track and improve on-time delivery, production efficiency, and quality metrics.
• Direct material management strategies, optimizing inventory turnover and procurement processes to achieve cost efficiencies.
• Manage the end-to-end order configuration process, ensuring precise production standards and effective resource utilization.
• Lead the manufacturing department, establishing protocols for prototype and production operations to streamline processes and enhance material flow.
• Foster cross-functional team collaboration and maintain high engagement levels with internal stakeholders and external customers to drive program success.

Requirements

Qualifications:

• A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, preferably in optical design or physics, with over 10 years of experience in optics manufacturing operations management.
• Extensive knowledge of optical assembly techniques and ISO9000 quality systems.
• Proven expertise in advanced manufacturing practices including JIT, SPC, Lean Manufacturing, and Six Sigma.
• Exceptional leadership and communication skills, adept at building teams, problem-solving, and driving change.
• Proficiency in MS Office and experience with enterprise management software like SAP.

Preferred Skills:

• Health and Safety management experience in a plant setting.
• Certification in Six Sigma (Black or Green Belt).
• Demonstrated ability in leading continuous process improvement initiatives and mentoring teams.
• Strong change leadership capabilities with a focus on coaching and cross-organizational collaboration.
• A global mindset with a track record of innovation and urgency.

This position does not support work visa sponsorship. MKS is proud to be an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. Join us in shaping the future of technology by applying today!