Director of Operations

About the role

Sanmina Corporation (Nasdaq: SANM) is a leading integrated manufacturing solutions provider serving the fastest-growing segments of the global Electronics Manufacturing Services (EMS) market. Recognized as a technology leader, Sanmina provides end-to-end manufacturing solutions, delivering superior quality and support to Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) primarily in the communications networks, defense and aerospace, industrial and semiconductor systems, medical, multimedia, computing and storage, automotive and clean technology sectors. Located in Silicon Valley, Sanmina Fremont offers a unique, single-location end-to-end mechanical systems manufacturing service, specializing in low-to-mid volume production, New Product Introduction (NPI), and Design for Manufacturability (DFM). As we expand our cutting-edge manufacturing capabilities, we are looking for a motivated Fabrication Operations Director who wants to build a meaningful career and join our dynamic team in Fremont. The Fabrication Operations Director is responsible for the direct management of all manufacturing and production activities for complex fabricated sheet metal, tubular frames, final assembly & test of a variety technical components & products. This role focuses on optimizing shop floor processes, ensuring product quality, meeting production schedules, and maintaining a safe working environment, directly supporting the strategic goals set by the Plant Manager.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily execution of production schedules across multiple departments (e.g., sheet metal fabrication, welding, powder coat painting, final assembly, testing) to ensure on-time delivery (OTD) targets are met.
• Drive the implementation and application of Lean Manufacturing principles and Continuous Improvement initiatives (e.g., 5S, Standard Work, Waste Reduction) to enhance operational efficiency and reduce manufacturing cycle time.
• Monitor key operational metrics, including Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), scrap rate, and labor utilization, taking corrective action as necessary.
• Coordinate with the Engineering department to manage the introduction of new products (NPI) smoothly into production and resolve complex manufacturing issues.
• Champion a rigorous Safety (HSE) program on the shop floor, ensuring all employees adhere to strict safety protocols and environmental compliance standards.
• Work closely with the Quality team to maintain high product quality, ensure compliance with the ISO 9001 standard, and manage in-process quality control gates.
• Lead and support teams in performing Root Cause Analysis (RCA) for production defects and implementing sustainable corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).
• Directly supervise Production Supervisors, leading, mentoring, and developing the manufacturing workforce.
• Manage labor planning, scheduling, and capacity requirements to match demand fluctuations.
• Collaborate with Materials Planning, Purchasing and Logistics teams to optimize inventory levels and ensure the timely flow of components to the production line.

Requirements

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Operations Management, or a related technical field or equivalent years experience in fabrication.
• Experience: Minimum of 10+ years of experience in a manufacturing fabrication environment, with at least 8 years in a management or senior supervisory role overseeing production operations.
• Industry Knowledge: Hands-on experience in the sheet metal fabrication or custom metal manufacturing sector is highly preferred as is familiarity with core fabrication processes (e.g. punching, press brake bending, welding and surface finishing).
• Citizenship: This is an ITAR facility and applicant must be a US Citizen or a lawful permanent resident.

Skills

• Technical Skills: Proven expertise in Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement methodologies. Strong working knowledge of manufacturing ERP/MRP systems and production scheduling tools.
• Leadership: Exceptional problem-solving skills, decisiveness, and proven ability to manage and motivate a large, diverse manufacturing workforce in a fast-paced environment.

Benefits

• Tuition Reimbursement program.
• Health insurance coverage.
• Life and disability insurance.
• Savings plan.
• Company paid holidays.
• Paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business