Find & Apply For Chief Operating Officer Jobs in Sahuarita, Arizona

Overview PowerPhotonic has an exciting opportunity for a Head of Production based in Sahuarita, Arizona. This is a key leadership role within our growing US operation, responsible for the end-to-end operational performance of the site and the successful delivery of products to customers. The role will play a critical part in developing a self-sufficient, high-performing manufacturing operation capable of supporting future growth and increasing production scale. PowerPhotonic is a global leader in the design and manufacture of precision optics and optical assemblies for high-power laser systems. Our technology supports critical applications in defence, biomedical and fusion energy, helping customers achieve performance levels that are not possible with conventional optical solutions. Our world-class design capability is supported by a highly innovative and flexible manufacturing process developed in-house. This unique combination enables us to deliver differentiated, high-performance optical solutions to customers operating at the cutting edge of technology. What is Involved The primary areas of focus will be to: Lead all production, cleanroom, maintenance and facilities activities across the US operation. Own the operational performance of the site, ensuring products are delivered safely, on time, to quality and at the appropriate cost. Ensure all products entering manufacture have successfully completed the required NPI and stage-gate review process. Work closely with Engineering to ensure products are fully proven, manufacturable and production-ready before release. Lead production planning, scheduling and execution to meet customer delivery commitments. Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, delivery, productivity and cost performance. Take ownership of equipment reliability, preventative maintenance programmes and operational capability improvement. Manage facilities, cleanroom infrastructure and site environment to support safe and efficient manufacturing operations. Establish a high-performance culture through effective leadership, accountability, visual management and daily SQDCP routines. Work closely with UK leadership to deploy best practice, standardise operational disciplines and support the continued development of a self-sufficient US operation. The PowerPhotonic Culture PowerPhotonic is at a key stage of development and growth and has a clearly defined set of values and behaviours we are looking for in candidates, such as: High levels of ownership and accountability Strong leadership capability with the ability to motivate and develop teams A structured and disciplined approach to governance, process control and operational management Excellent communication skills across manufacturing, engineering and leadership teams A proactive and solutions-focused mindset Commitment to continuous improvement and operational excellence Ability to balance strategic thinking with hands-on operational leadership Flexibility and adaptability within a growing international business Preferred Qualifications and Experience Essential Significant leadership experience within a manufacturing, engineering or operations environment Proven track record of delivering improvements in productivity, delivery, quality and cost performance Experience managing production teams and operational performance Strong understanding of NPI, stage-gate processes and manufacturing governance Experience driving continuous improvement and operational excellence initiatives Ability to lead cross-functional teams and work effectively with engineering and commercial stakeholders Strong Health & Safety awareness and commitment to compliance Desirable Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management or a related discipline Experience within precision manufacturing, optics, photonics, semiconductor or cleanroom environments Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma or equivalent operational excellence qualifications Experience scaling manufacturing operations within a growing business Experience supporting defence-related or highly regulated manufacturing environments Experience leading site-wide operational transformation projects Working With Us This role is based on-site in Sahuarita, Arizona and requires presence across manufacturing, cleanroom and operational areas. The successful candidate must be able to perform the essential duties of the role, with or without reasonable accommodation. All applicants must already hold the legal right to work in the US. Some domestic and international travel may be required to support collaboration with UK operations, training, customer engagements and business activities.

Contract Type:

Full-time Schedule:

Monday to

Friday Primary Location:

Sahuarita, Arizona Job type: On-site Join Us This is an opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of PowerPhotonic's US manufacturing operation. If you are motivated by building high-performing teams, driving operational excellence and delivering results within a technically advanced manufacturing environment, we would like to hear from you.

Job Type:

Full-time Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person