Contract Operations Strategist Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

WORK LOCATION: Ann Arbor, MI

FLSA STATUS: Exempt

SALARY RANGE: The anticipated salary range for this role is $130,300 - $217,300 annually. This range reflects a good faith estimate based on the targeted level for the role and typical compensation benchmarks across U.S. locations. Actual compensation may vary depending on the selected candidate’s qualifications, experience, geographical location, and internal alignment. 

SUMMARY

The Operations Director leads the operations of our Energy Systems manufacturing facility covering the manufacturing of solid oxide fuel cells, lithium polymer battery packs and affiliated accessories and kit assemblies. The Operations Director is responsible for overseeing all aspects of production and process improvement to ensure efficient and high-quality manufacturing operations. Your leadership, strategic planning, and operational expertise will be crucial in driving the success and growth of our operations.

RESPONSIBILITIES

The following job functions are a basic requirement but are not limited to and may be assigned to other duties.

• Lead the site safety culture by maintaining an unwavering focus on safe operations, regulatory compliance, and accountability while promoting a proactive approach to workplace safety throughout the organization.
• Develop and implement operational strategies, goals, and objectives aligned with the company's vision, business objectives, and long-term growth plans.
• Lead and manage overall manufacturing operations, including production planning, scheduling, procurement, inventory management, quality assurance, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Establish and optimize manufacturing processes and workflows to ensure efficient production, operational scalability, and timely delivery of products while maintaining the highest quality standards.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational efficiency, productivity, quality, and cost performance utilizing Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other operational excellence methodologies.
• Develop, monitor, and communicate key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure operational performance, identify opportunities for improvement, and implement corrective actions to achieve business objectives.
• Foster a results-oriented culture focused on accountability, operational excellence, customer satisfaction, and achievement of safety, quality, delivery, and financial targets.
• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including engineering, quality, supply chain, program management, and sales, to ensure alignment of priorities and successful execution of company objectives.
• Establish and maintain effective communication channels across all levels of the organization, ensuring company initiatives, operational updates, performance expectations, and feedback are communicated clearly and consistently.
• Implement and maintain strict adherence to quality standards, regulatory requirements, safety protocols, and applicable certifications throughout the manufacturing facility.
• Support on-site and corporate supply chain functions, including strategic sourcing, vendor selection, contract negotiations, supplier performance management, and relationship development.
• Develop and manage manufacturing budgets, including capital and operating expenditures, ensuring cost-effective resource allocation and achievement of financial objectives.
• Recruit, develop, coach, and mentor a high-performing operations team by providing ongoing feedback, performance management, training, succession planning, and professional development opportunities.
• Create an environment that encourages collaboration, innovation, continuous learning, adaptability, and constructive feedback while fostering employee engagement and accountability.
• Lead organizational change initiatives and effectively guide teams through business growth, process improvements, and evolving operational priorities.
• Exercise sound judgment and data-driven decision-making to solve complex operational challenges, prioritize initiatives, and achieve organizational goals.
• Stay current on industry trends, emerging technologies, manufacturing best practices, and leadership development practices, recommending and implementing improvements where appropriate.
• Partner with executive leadership to develop and execute strategic plans that support business growth, operational scalability, and long-term organizational success.
• Represent the company at industry conferences, trade shows, customer meetings, and other professional events to promote the organization's capabilities and strengthen industry relationships.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, industry standards, and certifications.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS 

The following are a non-exhaustive list of qualifications for the position:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field.
• 7-10+ years of progressive manufacturing operations experience, including at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven experience in a senior operations management role within the manufacturing industry.
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, technologies, and best practices.
• Demonstrated experience in implementing lean manufacturing principles and driving operational excellence.
• Excellent leadership and people management skills, with the ability to motivate and develop high-performing teams.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to make data-driven decisions.
• Proven track record of driving operational improvements, cost reduction, and quality enhancement.
• Excellent project management skills, with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
• Results-oriented mindset, with a focus on achieving operational targets and driving business growth.
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements and certifications relevant to manufacturing, such as FAA regulations, ISO standards, or AS9100, is desirable.
• Flexibility and adaptability to work in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and meet project deadlines.
• Ability to communicate company messages and feedback to broad array of diverse staff

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Master's degree is preferred.
• Experience in fuel cell manufacturing operations, and battery assembly.
• Familiarity with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems and other manufacturing software.

REDWIRE DEFENSE TECH BENEFITS

• Matching 401(k)
• Paid PTO
• Paid holidays
• Medical, vision, and dental insurance
• Group Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
• HSA and FSA Options
• Critical Care Plan
• Accident Care Plan
• Employee Stock Purchasing Program (ESPP)

CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS

This position may require access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). To comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants will be asked to provide specific documentation to verify a US person’s status under the ITAR and the EAR.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The work environment may involve a standard office setting while also incorporating elements of a production area. Employees will use standard office equipment, including computers, and must demonstrate stamina to sit or stand while maintaining attention to detail despite potential interruptions. The role may require occasional activities such as walking, climbing, stooping, crouching, and bending. Vision is necessary for reading printed materials and a computer screen, while hearing and speech are essential for effective communication both in person and over the telephone. Additionally, the position may necessitate travel by air or automobile. Employees may be required to use personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, safety shoes, and shop coats, to ensure safety in the production environment. Employees may be able to lift up to 30 pounds as needed.

REDWIRE DEFENSE TECH IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Redwire Defense Tech is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact Human Resources. Continued employment remains on an “At-Will” basis.