Director of Operations
Rocket Lab - Petaluma
Work at Rocket Lab
Overview
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Overview
Worker Type Regular Job Description Job Summary The Director of Operations reports solid line to the Global Fulfillment organization and dotted line to the Product Line General Manager (PLGM) for assignments. Works closely with Engineering Program Managers and other members of the PLGM leadership team. The Operations Director maintains responsibility for all manufacturing operations and the business unit alignment of globally deployed purchasing, planning, integrated test operations, and quality resources to ensure timely execution of order fulfillment. The main responsibilities include ensuring all commitments are met for customers while maintaining quality assurance and safety standards compliant with applicable regulatory requirements. This position ensures all SUAS products are manufactured, assembled, and tested by AeroVironment or its strategic partners, meeting quality, safety, performance, cost, and delivery requirements for commercial and military customers. Position Responsibilities Manufacturing / Fulfillment Leads the planning and tactical execution for Operations. Works closely with the Program Managers throughout the SIOP process to ensure feasibility and execution. Builds and leads a diverse and engaged operations team focused on customer satisfaction and continuous improvement. Ensures that manufacturing, assembly, and testing of products meet master plans within required contract schedules, budgets, and quality requirements. Supports the development and implementation of policies, standards, or procedures for SUAS operations, ensuring ongoing compliance with AeroVironment (AV) commercial and DOD standards. Engages with Global SCM and Quality Mission Assurance to formulate and execute planning, sourcing, and certification of suppliers. Works closely with the leadership team to establish strategic KPIs. Collaborates with buyer/planner and master scheduler to ensure plans and schedules support customer contract needs. Maintains compliance with AV corporate policies. Other duties as assigned. Basic Qualifications (Required Skills & Experience) Bachelor's degree in Operations, Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience is required. 15+ years of directly related operations management experience required; aerospace industry experience is desirable. 8+ years of managing a multi-functional organization. APICS CPIM Certification desirable. Experience developing, executing, and managing global operations preferred. Demonstrated experience in operations planning, staffing, budgeting, and managing multiple priorities. Expert leadership and negotiation skills to influence outcomes and resolve issues. Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, operations and supplier management, logistics, and quality assurance. Experience managing product quality improvements, cost reduction, and process control initiatives. Demonstrated experience obtaining and maintaining relevant quality certifications for commercial and DOD customers. Travel required to support US and international Operations locations. Other Qualifications & Desired Competencies Advanced degree is preferred. FAA production certification experience preferred. Strong communication (verbal and written) skills. Effectively communicates the Operations strategy and long-term goals. Uses vision to think beyond immediate situations and adapts decision-making style. Inspires and empowers AV team members to meet operational commitments. Champions the process of change and promotes a culture of quick adaptation. Demonstrates the ability to develop and maintain internal and external trusting relationships. Assesses risk and opportunity in plans or actions and takes appropriate action. Salary Range : $148,891 - $211,365 AeroVironment considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to location, role responsibilities, work experience, education/training, and key skills. ITAR Requirement: This position requires access to information subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under ITAR and EAR definitions. Any job offer requiring approval of an export license will be conditional on AeroVironment’s ability to obtain an export license in a timely manner. Benefits : AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule, and a paid holiday shutdown. For more information about our company benefit offerings please visit: . Principals only need apply. NO agencies please. Who We Are Based in California, AeroVironment (AVAV) is a global leader in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and tactical missile systems, founded in 1971 by physicist and engineer Dr. Paul MacCready. Join us in developing the next generation of small UAS and tactical missile systems. What We Do AeroVironment designs, develops, produces, and supports an advanced portfolio of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and tactical missile systems for the U.S. Department of Defense and allied military services. We are proud to be an EEO/AA Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans. Qualified applicants will receive fair consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic data, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other legally protected status. ITAR : U.S. Citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident (Green Card holder), or a person approved for an export license from the appropriate governing agency. #J-18808-Ljbffr