Director of Manufacturing Operations

RAE Corporation•Pryor Creek, OK

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Director of Manufacturing Operations is responsible for the overall leadership, performance, and strategic direction of plant operations. This role drives operational excellence across safety, quality, delivery, cost, and people by translating company strategy into disciplined execution on the production floor. This position provides senior-level leadership to plant management, supervisors, and production teams, ensuring predictable throughput, high-quality output, and continuous improvement aligned with RAE Corporation’s standards and long-term business objectives. The Director partners closely with Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, Maintenance, and EHS to remove constraints, develop leaders, and scale sustainable manufacturing systems.

Requirements

Progressive leadership experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment with demonstrated responsibility for production, safety, quality, and people leadership.
Proven experience leading supervisors and frontline leaders, driving operational performance, and implementing continuous improvement initiatives.
Experience partnering cross-functionally with Maintenance, Quality, Engineering, Supply Chain, and EHS teams.
Strong operational and business acumen with the ability to translate strategic objectives into disciplined execution.
Effective leadership, coaching, and performance management skills.
Clear and professional written and verbal communication skills across all levels of the organization.
Ability to analyze production data, schedules, and performance metrics to drive decisions.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and manufacturing systems (ERP/MRP experience preferred).
Strong organizational, prioritization, and problem-solving abilities.

Nice To Haves

OSHA 10-hour certification preferred (or ability to obtain).
Formal leadership or supervisory training preferred.

Responsibilities

Direct and manage plant production operations while partnering with Maintenance, Quality, and Supply Chain leadership.
Ensure on-time production of finished goods in alignment with RAE Corporation standards and efficiency expectations.
Maintain clear visibility of production schedules; keep teams productive and minimize downtime or wasted time.
Read, understand, and enforce manufacturing instructions to ensure build-to-spec execution.
Read and understand engineering drawings and bills of material to support accurate production.
Lead by example in enforcing safety programs and safe work practices; coach and correct unsafe behaviors.
Identify and correct safety hazards; respond to employee safety concerns promptly.
Ensure compliance with OSHA requirements and applicable CFR 1910 regulations.
Report workplace injuries timely and partner with EHS to address hazards, coordinate time off, and support transitional duty.
Comply with all government regulations, company policies, and procedures.
Provide leadership, direction, and development to Production Supervisors and Lead Operators.
Conduct performance reviews and provide ongoing coaching, feedback, and corrective action as needed.
Discipline employees fairly and consistently; document performance and behavioral actions.
Resolve employee issues promptly and equitably while maintaining proper documentation.
Set a positive example through professionalism, accountability, and optimism.
Interview candidates and advise leadership on hiring and selection decisions.
Oversee onboarding and training programs to ensure new hires are equipped to succeed.
Support continuous learning by attending and encouraging leadership and safety training.
Clearly communicate company goals, operational plans, and expectations to employees.
Reinforce the importance of individual contributions to departmental and company success.
Ensure consistent understanding and enforcement of company policies across the workforce.
Maintain regular attendance in accordance with the Employee Handbook.
Complete additional duties as assigned by the Vice President of Operations.