Director, Operations

About Sparton

Sparton, based in DeLeon Springs, Florida, is a distinguished defense contractor with origins tracing back to 1900. The company excels in manufacturing high-quality sonobuoys essential for the United States' undersea defense capabilities. Beyond manufacturing, Sparton's team of engineers and specialists engage in solving complex challenges related to defense technologies including advanced research systems, maritime solutions, sensor technologies, and payload delivery.

Job Summary

The Operations Director will be responsible for overseeing all manufacturing activities and providing hands-on guidance on the production floor. The role ensures that products are made safely, efficiently, and in full alignment with company, customer, and regulatory standards. Candidates must have substantial, direct experience managing production lines or manufacturing operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct daily production operations, managing line performance, workforce, quality, and throughput.
• Establish and enforce manufacturing policies, standards, and best practices focusing on cost control, waste minimization, safety, quality, and timely deliveries.
• Lead Lean manufacturing initiatives including Kaizens, Standard Work, 5S, TPM, and root cause analysis with corrective action plans.
• Recruit, train, and develop productive teams, enhancing employee engagement and collaboration.
• Ensure adherence to all relevant regulations including state, federal, OSHA, EPA, ITAR, and customer-specific mandates.
• Oversee capacity planning, scheduling, and materials management within the company’s quality and management frameworks.
• Manage the operations budget and foster cross-departmental cooperation with Finance, HR, Supply Chain, Business Development, and IT.
• Drive continuous improvement, foster problem-solving culture, and promote accountability.
• Perform other assigned tasks as required.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or business required; master's degree preferred.
• At least 12 years of progressive experience in operations leadership with direct production line management.
• Demonstrated achievement in leading production teams, budgeting, quality system implementation, and enforcing environmental, health, and safety standards.
• Expertise in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and process improvement especially within high-mix, low-volume manufacturing contexts.
• Preferably experience with electronics contract manufacturing, NASA standards, CQE certification, or Six Sigma credentials.
• Exceptional communication, leadership, and analytical capabilities.
• Ability to interpret technical documents, complex requirements, and performance metrics.
• Familiarity with GMP, OSHA, EPA regulations and compliance.
• Experience collaborating with diverse departments such as Finance, HR, Supply Chain, Business Development, and IT to optimize operational management.
• Proven success managing Lean and Six Sigma/Black Belt projects in high-volume manufacturing environments.
• Mechanical engineering background considered an advantage.
• Must be a United States citizen.

Travel and Physical Requirements

• Minimal travel required.
• Work conditions include professional office and manufacturing environments with exposure to fumes, airborne particles, moving machinery, vibration, loud noise, and occasional extreme conditions.
• Reasonable accommodation will be provided to individuals with disabilities.
• Physical duties include sitting, standing, talking, communicating, using hands and fingers, reaching, lifting up to 20 pounds, bending, and stooping.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and disability insurance coverage.
• Access to healthcare concierge services and virtual health programs for therapy, menopause, and diabetes.
• Company-paid Basic Life Insurance with options for additional Life and AD&D coverage.
• On-site wellness clinic.
• Competitive pay and 401(k) retirement plan with 75% match up to 8% plus 1% employer contribution.
• Paid time off including vacation, sick leave, paid parental leave, adoption assistance, and fertility/family building support.
• Flexible work schedule options such as 9/80, 5/8, 4/10, and 3/12 hour formats.
• Lifestyle spending account, employee referral program, tuition reimbursement, and voluntary benefits including long-term care, legal, identity theft, and pet insurance.

Additional Information

Sparton is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. The company is an equal opportunity employer welcoming veterans and disabled applicants. This job description is subject to change and is not a contract of employment. The successful candidate will be expected to carry out other duties as assigned by supervisors or management.