External Operations Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: Operations Manager

Job Description

The Operations Manager leads and optimizes all aspects of operational processes across production, supply chain, logistics, and quality assurance. This role drives efficiency, productivity, and continuous improvement by developing and executing operational strategies aligned with business objectives. The Operations Manager collaborates closely with cross-functional teams, oversees one or more value streams, and ensures consistent, high-quality operations while fostering a high-performance culture.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all aspects of operations, including production, supply chain, logistics, and quality assurance, to ensure smooth and efficient processes across the organization.
• Assume full ownership of one or more value streams, ensuring performance, quality, and continuous improvement within those areas.
• Develop and implement operational strategies, goals, and initiatives that align with overall business objectives.
• Drive continuous improvement efforts to enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and optimize the use of resources.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop, implement, and maintain standardized operating procedures and best practices to ensure consistency and quality throughout all operations.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and operational metrics to assess performance, identify issues, and implement timely corrective actions.
• Lead, inspire, and develop a team of operations professionals by providing clear direction, coaching, feedback, and growth opportunities.
• Ensure compliance with relevant regulations, industry standards, and quality requirements across all operational processes.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, including suppliers, to manage relationships, negotiate contracts, and drive operational excellence throughout the supply chain.
• Implement and oversee effective inventory management practices to optimize inventory levels, minimize obsolescence, and ensure product availability.
• Stay current with industry trends, technologies, and best practices in operations management and proactively apply this knowledge to drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Partner with manufacturing engineering and process engineering teams to optimize manufacturing processes and support process improvement projects.
• Utilize lean manufacturing, value stream mapping, and process optimization tools to streamline workflows and eliminate waste.
• Support project management activities related to operational changes, new product introductions, and process improvements.
• Maintain strong customer relations by ensuring reliable operations, consistent quality, and on-time delivery.

Essential Skills

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in operations management, preferably in a manufacturing or closely related industry.
• Proven track record of successfully leading and managing operations teams to achieve business goals and objectives.
• Strong knowledge of operations management principles, methodologies, and best practices.
• Demonstrated experience in process optimization, lean manufacturing, and continuous improvement methodologies (such as Six Sigma).
• Experience leading operations and programs within a manufacturing environment.
• Experience in the medical device industry, either contract manufacturing (CM) or original equipment manufacturer (OEM), is strongly preferred.
• Hands-on experience with continuous improvement, lean, and process optimization initiatives.
• Manufacturing engineering and process engineering experience related to operational and process improvement.
• Strong project management skills, including planning, execution, and stakeholder coordination.
• Proficiency in using operational management software and tools to drive efficiency and productivity.
• Excellent leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and inspire high performance.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a data-driven approach to decision-making.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate and influence cross-functional teams and stakeholders.
• Proven ability to build and maintain relationships with suppliers and external partners.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and manage multiple priorities simultaneously.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in operations management, business administration, or a related field.
• Advanced degree in a related discipline is preferred.
• Experience with lean manufacturing tools such as value stream mapping and lean six sigma methodologies.
• Familiarity with APICS frameworks and supply chain best practices.
• Certification in operations management (such as APICS) is a plus.
• Certification in Lean, Six Sigma, or Lean Six Sigma is a plus.
• Experience in process improvement and manufacturing process optimization within regulated industries is advantageous.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and implement standardized operating procedures and best practices.
• Strong customer relations orientation, with a focus on reliability, quality, and service.

Work Environment

This role is based in a modern, state-of-the-art facility located in Brooklyn Park, featuring advanced equipment and contemporary office space. The environment is very clean and well-maintained, supporting high-quality manufacturing and operational activities. The organization has been expanding its footprint by acquiring surrounding buildings to increase capacity and has been gaining traction in new product and process areas, offering exposure to innovative projects and evolving operations. The dress code is office casual, and standard working hours apply, providing a professional yet comfortable setting for collaboration and productivity.

This is a Permanent position based out of Minneapolis, MN.

The pay range for this position is $120000.00 - $150000.00/yr.

- Competitive salary and performance-based incentives - Health, dental, and vision insurance - Professional development and career advancement opportunities - Collaborative and innovative work environment

This is a fully onsite position in Minneapolis,MN.

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 18, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.