Director of Operations, Precision Machining

Ichor Systems has an immediate opening for a Director of Manufacturing Operations, a senior leadership role responsible for driving operational excellence across our Minnesota precision machining operations. This leader will ensure on-time delivery of high-quality products while meeting financial, operational, and material performance objectives.

The Director will drive manufacturing strategy, workforce development, and continuous improvement initiatives to support business growth, optimize processes, and strengthen customer satisfaction.

Location: Sauk Rapids, Minnesota
Reports to: General Manager, Precision Machining, North America

What You’ll Do:
Operational Leadership

• Oversee daily manufacturing operations to ensure achievement of delivery, quality, and financial performance targets
• Drive accountability for operational metrics including on-time delivery, material performance, and cost management
• Ensure safe, efficient, and cost-effective manufacturing processes

Strategy & Continuous Improvement

• Develop and execute strategies to support business growth and operational scalability
• Implement manufacturing policies and procedures aligned with operational excellence principles
• Initiate and lead continuous improvement initiatives across production, quality, and workflow processes

Manufacturing & Capacity Planning

• Plan and direct equipment layout, workflow design, assembly methods, and workforce utilization
• Evaluate and recommend investments in equipment, infrastructure, and talent to support growth
• Define and monitor site metrics, ensuring clear performance targets and improvement plans

Leadership & Talent Development

• Lead, coach, and develop a leadership team of Managers and Supervisors
• Oversee hiring, onboarding, and workforce development programs
• Establish performance goals and ensure alignment across functional teams
• Manage staffing, training, and performance evaluations for a workforce of 250+ employees

Customer & Stakeholder Engagement

• Ensure overall delivery and quality of the site’s products and services
• Participate in key customer interactions to support relationships and operational alignment
• Communicate strategy, priorities, and results to employees with a consistent cadence
• Report operational performance to site leadership, executives, and customers

What We’re Looking For:

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred
• 15+ years of manufacturing experience, ideally within precision machining or related industries
• 8+ years of progressive leadership experience managing managers and supervisors
• Demonstrated experience leading large manufacturing teams (250+ employees)
• Strong background in CNC machining, complex manufacturing, or cleanroom environments
• Proven ability to drive operational improvements, productivity gains, and cost efficiencies
• Experience leading change initiatives and scaling operations
• Strong communication and leadership skills with the ability to influence at all levels

Why Join Us:

This is an opportunity to play a pivotal leadership role in a growing precision machining operation, building high-performing teams, and driving measurable operational impact. You’ll work alongside experienced leaders in a collaborative environment focused on innovation, quality, and continuous improvement.

For candidates based in Minnesota:   The anticipated base salary for this position is $125,000 - $175,000.

Our pay ranges are determined by role, level, and location. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional job-related factors, including knowledge, skills, experience, tenure, and relevant education or training. The pay scale is subject to change depending on business needs. Your recruiter can share more about the specific range for your location during the hiring process.

Ichor is committed to supporting your personal well-being and professional development. Our benefits are designed to help you maintain a healthy work-life balance, provide peace of mind, and prepare for your future. We offer medical, dental, and vision plans across all locations, allowing team members to select the coverage that best meets their healthcare needs and budget. Our benefits also include a paid time-off program and paid holidays to support your time away from work. A summary of our Benefits will be provided during the interview process.  

ITAR ONLY 
The business site where this position is located is an ITAR-compliant operation. Due to ITAR regulations, Ichor Systems is only able to employ US Persons. A US person is a lawful permanent resident (immigrant with “green card” permanent authorization to work document) or who is a protected person (a citizen, a national, a refugee, or a person granted asylum). Non-citizens with other visas are not eligible for hire at this location.

Ichor Systems Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer

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