Sr. Operations Improvement Manager - Aerospace (Contract)

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Job Description:

Airbus U.S. Manufacturing Facility in Mobile, AL is seeking a highly experienced and results-driven Senior Operations Improvement Manager (Contract) to lead continuous improvement initiatives to support the Ramp Up of the A320 Family in our Final Assembly & Completions Business.

Meet the Team:

On ‘Airbus Way’ you will find the Airbus U.S. Manufacturing Facility for commercial aircraft. Opened at the Mobile Aeroplex at Brookley in 2015, the facility produces A320 Family aircraft and added a second product line for the A220 in 2019. The facility, which strengthens the U.S. aerospace industry, is part of Airbus’ strategy to enhance its global competitiveness by meeting the growing needs of its customers in the United States and beyond.

Your Working Environment:

The successful candidate will be a strategic leader, responsible for driving operational excellence, implementing lean manufacturing principles, and optimizing processes to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve quality. This role requires a deep understanding of the aerospace industry, a strong background in operational leadership, and a proven track record of successfully implementing large-scale improvement projects.

Your Boarding Pass:

• Process Optimization: Identify, analyze, and implement opportunities for process improvements. Utilize a wide range of Lean tools and methodologies such as Value Stream Mapping, the 5S System, Kaizen events, Kanban, Total Productive Maintenance (TPM), and Single-Minute Exchange of Die (SMED).

• Coaching and Development: Act as a coach and mentor for team members and a change agent for the organization. Foster a culture of continuous improvement by training and empowering employees at all levels to identify and solve problems.

• Data Analysis & Reporting: Use data-driven approaches to diagnose root causes of operational inefficiencies. Develop and maintain metrics to track the effectiveness of improvement initiatives and report progress to senior leadership.

• Project Management: Oversee and manage multiple improvement projects simultaneously, ensuring projects are completed on time, within budget, and deliver the intended results.

• Cost & Quality Improvement: Drive significant reductions in operational costs, lead times, and waste, while simultaneously improving product quality, on-time delivery, and customer satisfaction.

• Safety & Compliance: Ensure all improvement projects and new processes adhere to strict aerospace industry regulations (e.g., AS9100, FAA) and company safety protocols.

Education Required: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Aerospace, Industrial), Business Administration, or a related field.

Preferred Education - Masters degree preferred.

Required Experience:

• Minimum of 15 years of experience in an operations management or continuous improvement role within the aerospace or a highly regulated, complex manufacturing industry.

• Demonstrated expertise in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement methodologies. Six Sigma Black Belt preferred.

• Excellent project management skills with a history of managing complex, large-scale projects from conception to completion.

• In-depth knowledge of aerospace quality standards (e.g., AS9100) and regulatory requirements (e.g., FAA).

• Proficiency in relevant software (e.g., ERP systems, project management tools, statistical software).

• Experience with a variety of manufacturing processes, including composite manufacturing, machining, and precision assembly.