Director of Operations

Redwire Defense Tech • Huntsville, AL

20d • $152,500 - $231,800 • Onsite

About The Position

The Director of Operations oversees all aspects of production, ensuring efficient processes, high-quality output, and adherence to safety and AS9100 quality management standards. The role includes strategic planning, resource management, and collaboration with cross-functional teams to optimize production performance and meet business objectives in a fast-paced environment. The ideal candidate has significant operations leadership experience in aerospace, defense, advanced technology, or another highly regulated manufacturing industry, with a record of scaling operations, improving performance, and supporting complex product development and production environments.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Operations Management, Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive operations leadership experience in aerospace, defense, advanced technology, electronics, precision manufacturing, or another highly regulated manufacturing environment.
• Strong knowledge of aerospace manufacturing principles, AS9100 quality management systems, quality control processes, regulatory compliance, and safety regulations.
• Demonstrated experience operating within an AS9100-certified manufacturing environment.
• Excellent leadership and team-building skills, with the ability to motivate and inspire staff at all levels.
• Proficiency in data analysis and performance metrics, with experience using ERP and production management software.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to make data-driven decisions.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including effective collaboration with cross-functional teams and stakeholders.
• Experience with Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Ability to meet applicable ITAR and/or EAR requirements, including providing documentation to verify U.S. person status if requested.
• Ability to travel by air or automobile as needed.
• Ability to perform occasional walking, climbing, stooping, crouching, and bending; maintain attention to detail while sitting or standing; and lift up to 30 pounds as needed.
• Ability to use required personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, safety shoes, and shop coats.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree preferred.
• Experience leading complex manufacturing operations supporting government and commercial customers is strongly preferred.
• Proven track record of successfully managing production processes and driving operational excellence.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement operational strategies aligned with company goals, focusing on production efficiency and cost reduction.
• Manage production scheduling, resource allocation, and workflow to support timely delivery while maintaining quality standards.
• Establish and uphold quality assurance protocols that meet AS9100 standards, customer requirements, regulatory obligations, and internal quality management system requirements.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the operations team; foster continuous improvement and accountability; conduct performance evaluations and provide feedback.
• Identify operational improvement opportunities and implement best practices, Lean or Six Sigma methodologies, and technologies to improve productivity.
• Promote quality, operational excellence, accountability, and customer satisfaction throughout the manufacturing organization.
• Coordinate with supply chain, engineering, quality assurance, and sales teams on production schedules, inventory management, and customer requirements.
• Develop and manage the operations budget, allocate resources effectively, minimize waste, and control costs.
• Promote workplace safety by ensuring compliance with safety regulations and protocols, conducting training, and addressing safety concerns.
• Establish KPIs for production efficiency, quality, and safety; analyze data and prepare reports for senior management.
• Work with suppliers and vendors to ensure timely material and component delivery, negotiating contracts and terms to optimize cost and quality.
• Develop contingency plans for production disruptions, including equipment failures, supply chain delays, and workforce shortages.
• Perform other responsibilities as assigned.

Benefits

• Matching 401(k)
• Paid PTO
• Paid holidays
• Medical, vision, and dental insurance
• Group short-term and long-term disability
• HSA and FSA options
• Critical Care Plan
• Accident Care Plan
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director