Contract Operations Manager Jobs in Kent, WA (NOW HIRING)

The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. transforms the lives of people who are blind, DeafBlind, and blind with other disabilities. Through employment opportunities, we are a catalyst for empowerment. We foster self-confidence and instill a life changing affirmation that independence is possible. From our expertise in cutting-edge technology to our understanding of mobility, we help people who are blind and DeafBlind live fulfilling lives.

We believe everyone, no matter their vision abilities, deserves to experience the power of employment. Our goal for each person we reach is to ignite a fire of determination that is centered on the reality that blindness doesn’t define who you are or how you choose to live.

We are currently seeking a person who identifies strongly with our mission and core values to join our team as Aerospace Operations Manager. The ideal candidate for this role will have 7 years management experience, preferably in aerospace manufacturing, machining, and/or CNC programming,  a strong understanding of machine shop operations in an aerospace environment, as well as, knowledge of aerospace quality standards and manufacturing best practices. We are seeking a manager who places a high value employee development and has the skills necessary to train and strengthen their team.

Purpose:

The Aerospace Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing the technical and operational execution of aerospace manufacturing components and systems. This role combines oversight in Manufacturing, Engineering, and Estimating, ensuring efficiency, quality, and compliance with customer specifications and quality requirements. 

Scope of Responsibility:

This position is responsible for manufacturing, technical, and estimating support within the Aerospace Division. This role does not include production scheduling, contract administration, sales activities, or direct customer communication responsibilities.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead the day-to-day operations within the Aerospace manufacturing division.
• Manage and provide support for production supervisors who are responsible for production schedules, shop floor efficiency, staffing, and equipment and labor utilization. 
• Manage and provide support for technical teams that are responsible for creating new and optimizing existing CNC programs, manufacturing processes, and fixtures/tooling.
• Manage and provide support for estimating department that is responsible for overseeing the cost-calculation process for RFQs (Requests for Quote), ensuring competitive bids that still protect profit margins.
• Identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
• Troubleshoot manufacturing issues and implement corrective actions to improve safety, quality, delivery, and cost.
• Interpret customer drawings, specifications, and aerospace standards.
• Ensure compliance with quality management systems, aerospace requirements, and company procedures.
• Coordinate with quality, purchasing, and management teams to support production objectives.
• Maintain a safe, organized, and productive work environment.
 

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, manufacturing engineering technology, or related field or equivalent experience.
• 7 years management experience, preferably in aerospace manufacturing, machining, and/or CNC programming.
• Demonstrated ability to comprehend all aspects of engineering data and interpret requirements.
• Strong understanding of shop operations, processes, and quality requirements, preferably in sheet metal fabrication, 3-axis and 4-axis CNC machining, non-metallic parts machining, and complex assemblies.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management experience with ability to coach and teach to develop staff. 
• Knowledge of aerospace quality standards and manufacturing best practices.
• Strong problem-solving, communication, and organizational skills.
• The ability to perform all duties with quality, accuracy, and diligence.

Company benefits may include:

• 12 Paid Holidays per year
• Up to 17 days of Paid Time Off (PTO) per year
• Medical, Dental, and vision plans
• Long-term and short-term disability, AD&D
• Life Insurance
• 403(b) Retirement Plan with 6% employer match
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Team Member Referral Bonus Program
• Paid Leave for Service Animal Training
• Focus on Upward Mobility
• Inclusive and Supportive Team Environment

Please note: Under the AbilityOne Program, The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. gives hiring preference to individuals who are legally blind. Any decision to disclose a disability by an applicant related to the hiring preference is completely voluntary. Requesting such information is also a part of our affirmative action efforts. Information that is disclosed will remain confidential. Also, your decision not to disclose disability status will not have a negative impact in the hiring process.

The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, race, creed, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability, the use of a dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.