Director, Operations at Sanders Industries Holdings

Long Beach, California, United States -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

19 Jun, 26

Salary

220000.0

Posted On

21 Mar, 26

Experience

10 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Aerospace Manufacturing, Operations Management, Lean Manufacturing, Kaizen, Standard Work, Kanban, Capacity Planning, EHS Strategy, OEE Targets, CAPEX Planning, OPEX Planning, Data Analysis, Stakeholder Management, Process Development, Six Sigma, Blueprint Interpretation

Industry

Industrial Machinery Manufacturing

Description

Rubbercraft is seeking a Director of Operations with strong aerospace manufacturing experience, ideally in high‑mix, low‑ to mid‑volume build‑to‑spec and build‑to‑print engineered polymer components. The ideal candidate is dynamic, data‑driven, and able to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced, growing organization that relies on Teams and Salesforce for collaboration. Rubber and silicone molded seal experience is preferred but not required. The Director of Operations oversees all company operations across all shifts, ensuring steady financial performance by implementing structured processes that improve labor and material efficiency, meeting or exceeding revenue targets, and maintaining safety, in‑process quality, and compliance. This role ensures on‑time delivery, accurate work‑order data, and effective materials flow. The position also leads planning and execution of CaPEX and OPEX initiatives and champions our ACE values—Accountability, Collaboration, and Empowerment—to drive GST (Get Stuff Done), Dream Big, and Have Fun. About Rubbercraft: Rubbercraft is a trusted leader in engineered elastomer solutions serving aerospace, defense, and industrial markets. Our team designs and manufactures precision-molded seals, gaskets, and custom rubber components that perform in the most demanding environments. We take pride in craftsmanship, collaboration, and a culture built on innovation and reliability. Reporting Structure: * Reports to: VP/GM * Direct Reports: Value Stream Managers (4), 2nd Shift Production Manager (1), Sr. Facilities & Maintenance Manager (1), Industrial Engineer, Sr. Manufacturing Engineering Manager * Peers: VP of Quality, VP of Engineering, Director of Supply Chain, VP of Business Development, Commercial Director, HR Business Partner/Director, Business Unit Controller KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: OPERATIONAL LEADERSHIP & STRATEGY * Lead all manufacturing operations across shifts, ensuring safety, quality, delivery, and cost targets are achieved * Develop and execute operational strategies to meet revenue, EBITDA, and growth objectives * Own production and capacity planning, aligning with sales forecasts and business goals * Establish labor and headcount plans; monitor productivity and cost performance CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT & LEAN TRANSFORMATION * Drive lean manufacturing initiatives including Kaizen, standard work, one-piece flow, cellular manufacturing, and Kanban systems * Lead site transformation roadmap and operational excellence initiatives * Implement visual management systems and KPI dashboards to improve performance tracking and decision-making * Promote a culture of built-in quality in partnership with Quality leadership SAFETY, QUALITY & COMPLIANCE * Lead EHS strategy and ensure compliance with OSHA and environmental standards * Maintain safe working conditions and ensure adherence to PPE and regulatory requirements * Ensure compliance with aerospace specifications, quality standards, and FOD/5S programs ENGINEERING, MAINTENANCE & EQUIPMENT PERFORMANCE * Partner with engineering to support process development, automation, and scalability * Drive equipment reliability and achievement of OEE targets * Support implementation of automation, PLC systems, and advanced manufacturing technologies FINANCIAL & CAPITAL PLANNING * Develop and manage operational budgets, including labor and material cost targets * Lead CAPEX and OPEX planning and execution to support growth and efficiency * Ensure accurate work order data and effective materials flow across operations LEADERSHIP & TALENT DEVELOPMENT * Provide strategic leadership to a cross-functional operations team * Set clear performance expectations, coach and develop leaders, and drive accountability * Lead hiring, performance management, and employee relations for operations teams * Foster a culture aligned with ACE values: Accountability, Collaboration, and Empowerment CROSS-FUNCTIONAL COLLABORATION * Partner with Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, HR, Finance, and Commercial teams to ensure alignment with customer requirements * Communicate effectively across all levels of the organization and with external stakeholders JOB QUALIFICATIONS: EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE * Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations, or related field required * MBA or advanced degree preferred * 10+ years of leadership experience in aerospace manufacturing * Proven experience leading operations in a complex, high-mix manufacturing environment TECHNICAL & FUNCTIONAL EXPERTISE * Strong knowledge of lean manufacturing principles (Kaizen, VSM, Standard Work, Kanban, Mixed-Model production, EPEI) * Experience with quality systems (SPC, Control Plans) and structured problem solving (8D, Six Sigma, A3) * Ability to interpret aerospace blueprints and technical specifications (Boeing, Lockheed, Northrop, Airbus) * Experience with ERP systems, data analysis (Excel), and business tools (PowerPoint, dashboards) * Familiarity with automation, PLCs, and manufacturing technologies PREFERRED EXPERIENCE * Rubber and silicone molding or polymer-based manufacturing * Knowledge of destructive and non-destructive testing methods * Experience with facilities management and manufacturing equipment systems LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES * Strong strategic thinking and analytical skills * Proven ability to lead change and drive measurable business results * Excellent communication, influencing, and stakeholder management skills * Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment * High level of accountability, professionalism, and sound judgment WORKING CONDITIONS * Onsite role in Long Beach, CA * Regular presence during standard operating hours; flexibility to support off-shift or weekend operations as needed * ~15% travel to suppliers and customer sites * Exposure to manufacturing environments including noise, temperature variation, and required PPE * Physical requirements include standing (approx. 60%), sitting (30%), and occasional lifting up to 20 lbs Benefits: At Rubbercraft, we recognize how important your career and benefits are to you and your family. We offer a full suite of benefits, including medical, dental, vision, short and long-term disability coverage, accident insurance, critical illness insurance, basic and supplemental life insurance, employee assistance plan, retirement savings and matching, and other developmental opportunities. We are committed to supporting the way you live and work. RCC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to complete the application process may contact Human Resources. This position requires access to information subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Employment is contingent upon the applicant being a “U.S. person” as defined by ITAR (22 CFR §120.15), which includes U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, or asylees, as required by U.S. export control laws.

Responsibilities

The Director of Operations oversees all company operations across all shifts, focusing on steady financial performance by improving labor and material efficiency, meeting revenue targets, and maintaining safety, quality, and compliance. This role ensures on-time delivery, accurate work-order data, and effective materials flow while leading CAPEX and OPEX initiatives.