Manufacturing Manager

Gooch & Housego•Moorpark, CA

11h•Onsite

About The Position

Gooch & Housego (G&H) is a global precision photonics manufacturer serving the industrial, aerospace & defense, life sciences, and semiconductor markets. With operations across North America, Europe, and Asia, G&H designs and manufactures advanced optical components, systems, and subsystems that enable some of the world's most demanding applications. The Manufacturing Manager reports to the Director of Operations and partners closely with cross-functional teams to oversee the day-to-day operations of the manufacturing department. This role is responsible for leading a team of technicians and operators to achieve production targets while maintaining high standards of quality, safety, and operational efficiency. The successful candidate will have a proven track record of delivering results, driving continuous improvement, and developing high-performing teams.

Requirements

Associate degree or equivalent combination of education and relevant work experience.
Minimum of five years of supervisory experience in a manufacturing environment.
Experience with optical fabrication, optical coating, and assembly processes.
Demonstrated leadership skills with the ability to motivate, develop, and engage teams.
Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
Ability to interpret manufacturing travelers and work instructions.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and other relevant business software.

Nice To Haves

Spanish language skills (verbal and written) are a plus.
Willingness to learn, adapt, and take on new challenges.
Six Sigma Green Belt certification or demonstrated experience applying Lean manufacturing methodologies preferred.

Responsibilities

Oversee the day-to-day operations of the photonics manufacturing department, including staffing, scheduling, training, and performance management.
Partner with Manufacturing Team Leads to establish priorities, monitor progress, allocate resources, and ensure production schedules are achieved.
Work closely with the Production Planner to meet or exceed production targets while maintaining quality, on-time delivery (OTD), and safety standards.
Serve as the primary liaison between production teams and management.
Evaluate operating practices and recommend process improvements.
Mentor and develop team members while identifying and implementing training plans.
Collaborate with Engineering, Quality, and other cross-functional teams to ensure products meet customer and quality requirements.
Lead and participate in Lean, 6S, and Kaizen initiatives.
Ensure manufacturing equipment is properly maintained, calibrated, and operated to maximize productivity while coordinating maintenance activities with the Facilities Manager.
Develop and implement standard operating procedures and document best practices to improve efficiency, quality, safety, and throughput across all work centers.
Promote a strong safety culture by ensuring compliance with safety regulations and best practices.