Director of Operations

CZ-USA•Kansas City, KS

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Director of Operations is responsible for end-to-end execution of manufacturing operations, with a strong emphasis on manual assembly, Lean manufacturing, and 5S discipline. This leader will be the leader of setting up our KC manufacturing operations; designing assembly stations, production processes and procedures, scalability for future growth, and continuously improve production systems that are efficient, repeatable, and quality driven. This role requires a hands-on operations leader who understands how work actually happens on the floor, how to design assembly lines, balance labor, build quality into the process, and use KPIs to drive predictable outcomes. The ideal candidate will have true hands-on experience setting up, running, and improving production assembly processes.

Requirements

15+ years of progressive operations leadership experience in manufacturing
Strong background in manual assembly environments
Demonstrated success implementing and sustaining: Lean manufacturing, 5S, Standard work and visual management
Deep working knowledge of: Quality systems and QA fundamentals, Supply chain and production planning, Manufacturing engineering collaboration, Work orders, BOMs, and routers
Proven ability to design and optimize production lines
Strong analytical skills with experience defining and managing KPIs
Hands-on leadership style with strong shop floor presence
Maintains proficiency in information technology systems, with the ability to leverage digital tools and platforms to support operational efficiency and data driven decision making
Experienced in leading and developing high-performing teams
Strong interpersonal skills; friendly, approachable, motivated, with a strong work ethic and integrity
Demonstrated ability to effectively manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines
Detail oriented with strong critical thinking and problem solving skills
Excellent computer skills including proficiency in Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel and PowerPoint
Effective use of electronic communication tools (email, phone systems, etc.)
Fluent in spoken and written English
Demonstrate flexibility by supporting critical operations during extended hours, special projects, and peak periods as needed
Must be at least 18 years old
Ability to legally possess firearms under applicable laws
Must know basic firearms safety
Ability to pass a criminal background test and drug test

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations, or related field (or equivalent experience)
Lean certification (Lean, Six Sigma, TPS based training)
Experience scaling production or stabilizing underperforming operations
ERP/MRP system experience
Firearms experience, training, and safety protocols

Responsibilities

Setup, lead, and optimize manual assembly operations with a focus on safety, quality, throughput, and labor efficiency
Design and implement production lines optimized for: Takt time and line balance, Ergonomics and operator efficiency, Visual flow and minimal WIP
Establish and maintain standard work for all assembly processes
Build productions teams, to include assembly, customer repairs, quality assurance, and manufacturing engineering
Design and build continuously improve layouts, fixtures, tooling, and workflows for production
Setup and maintain test range facility, safety procedures, and daily operations
Lead deployment and sustainment of Lean manufacturing principles
Setup parts flow, two bin replenishment
Setup data collection for assembly and repair, for data collection and live real-time dashboard reporting
Own and enforce 5S standards across operations: Visual management, Workplace organization, Sustainment through audits and leader standard work
Responsible for driving continuous improvement through: Process improvement, daily management prioritization, and implementation; Waste identification (motion, waiting, defects, overprocessing, etc.); Kaizen events and daily improvement; Root cause problem solving (A3, 5 Why, Fishbone)
Ensure quality is designed into the process, not inspected in at the end
Support and oversee quality assurance and ensure: Robust control plans, Error proofing (poka yoke) where applicable, Clear inspection and acceptance criteria
Partner with Quality to reduce defects, rework, and escapes
Lead corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) and drive systemic fixes
Define, track, and act on operational KPIs, including but not limited to: Safety, Quality (FPY, defect rates), Delivery / schedule adherence, Productivity and labor efficiency, Scrap and rework
Build visual dashboards and operating rhythms
Use data to drive decisions, prioritize improvements, and hold teams accountable
Manage supply chain to ensure material availability supports production plans
Ensure effective use and accuracy of: Work orders, Bills of Materials (BOMs), Routers / routings
Improve material flow, kitting, and point of use delivery
Reduce shortages, expedites, and production disruptions
Building and managing a manufacturing engineering department to support: Process development and validation, Line design and capacity planning, Cycle time reduction, New product introductions (NPI)
Ensure manufacturability, repeatability, and scalability of processes
Build, lead, and develop high performing operations teams
Establish clear expectations, accountability, and ownership
Coach leaders and supervisors in Lean thinking and problem solving
Foster a culture of safety, continuous improvement, and respect
Support department colleagues as needed
Complete assigned tasks and required paperwork accurately and on time
Ensure regular and timely attendance to maintain workflow continuity
Maintain a clean and organized work area
Complete other tasks assigned by supervisor or management
Adhere to all company policies and procedures