Director, Operations

Sanders Industries Holdings•Long Beach, CA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

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.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations, or related field required
10+ years of leadership experience in aerospace manufacturing
Proven experience leading operations in a complex, high-mix manufacturing environment
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

Nice To Haves

MBA or advanced degree preferred
Rubber and silicone molding or polymer-based manufacturing
Knowledge of destructive and non-destructive testing methods
Experience with facilities management and manufacturing equipment systems

Responsibilities

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
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
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
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
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
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
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