Director, Operations

Watlow ControlsColumbia, MO

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Overview

Schedule

Full-time

Education

Engineering (PE)

Career level

Executive

Remote

On-site

Benefits

Career Development

Job Description

At Watlow's Manufacturing Center of Excellence in Columbia, Missouri, we combine precision manufacturing with forward-thinking innovation. Part of a global thermal solutions leader founded in 1922, our Columbia facility is a critical hub for high-performance manufacturing, engineering, and operational excellence. #PoweredByPossibility We are hiring a: Director, Operations Columbia, Missouri (On-Site) Watlow is seeking a Director of Operations to lead our Manufacturing Center of Excellence in Columbia, Missouri. Reporting to the Senior Director of Operations, you will provide both strategic direction and hands-on leadership across production, quality, safety, supply chain, and engineering to deliver world-class products and drive operational excellence. As a key member of the Operations Leadership Team, you will partner closely with Business Units, New Product Development, and executive leadership to align operational capabilities with business objectives. This is a high-impact opportunity for an experienced operations leader who thrives in complex, high-tech manufacturing environments, is passionate about Lean transformation, and has the vision to build and develop high-performing teams. If you are a hands-on leader who drives accountability and continuous improvement from the shop floor to the executive table, we would love to connect with you. What You'll Do: Manufacturing Leadership: Lead all manufacturing operations to consistently achieve safety, quality, delivery, and cost objectives across the Columbia facility. Team Development: Build, coach, and develop a high-performing team, fostering a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement at every level of the organization. Lean Transformation: Drive the application of Lean principles to streamline processes, improve throughput, and enhance overall equipment effectiveness - embedding behaviors, not just tools. Cross-Functional Partnership: Collaborate with Business Units and New Product Development to ensure seamless integration of new products into production, aligning operational capabilities with innovation priorities. Performance Management: Establish and monitor KPIs to track performance, productivity, and Lean progress, using data to drive informed decisions and continuous improvement. Compliance & Quality: Ensure compliance with all regulatory, environmental, and industry standards, and champion quality through robust control measures and a culture of excellence. Financial Stewardship: Manage budgets, resources, and capital investments with a focus on efficiency and return, identifying and pursuing cost-reduction opportunities across products, processes, and projects. Technology & Innovation: Evaluate and introduce new technologies, systems, and methods to strengthen production capabilities and competitive positioning. Engagement & Culture: Lead site-level engagement initiatives that align with Watlow's purpose, vision, and strategy, promoting collaboration, trust, and open communication across leadership, teams, and stakeholders. Watlow Business System: Represent the site within the Watlow Business System (WBS) framework, ensuring consistent adoption of best practices across the organization. What you'll need to succeed? Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Business 10+ years of progressive leadership in manufacturing operations, with direct oversight of production, supply chain, engineering, and quality Demonstrated success implementing Lean principles at scale with hands-on transformation experience, not just knowledge Semiconductor industry or similarly complex, high-precision manufacturing environment experience Proven project management track record delivering on-time, on-budget initiatives Experience with New Product Introduction (NPI/NPD) in a manufacturing setting Strong analytical and communication skills, with a data-driven approach to performance management and decision-making Ability to travel domestically and internationally as needed (

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FAQs About Director, Operations Jobs at Watlow Controls

What is the work location for this position at Watlow Controls?

This job at Watlow Controls is located in Columbia, MO, according to the details provided by the employer. Some roles may also include multiple work locations depending on the requirement.

What pay range can candidates expect for this role at Watlow Controls?

Employer has not shared pay details for this role.

What employment applies to this position at Watlow Controls?

Watlow Controls lists this role as a Full-time position.

What experience level is required for this role at Watlow Controls?

Watlow Controls is looking for a candidate with "Executive" experience level.

What education level is required for this job?

The education requirement for this position is Engineering (PE). Candidates with relevant qualifications or equivalent experience may also be considered.

What benefits are offered by Watlow Controls for this role?

Watlow Controls offers Career Development for this position. Actual benefits may vary depending on the employer's policies and employment terms.

What is the process to apply for this position at Watlow Controls?

You can apply for this role at Watlow Controls either through Sonara's automated application system, which helps you submit applications 10X faster with minimal effort, or by applying manually using the direct link on the job page.