JOB DESCRIPTION
 

Job Title: Manufacturing Manager
Reports To: Director of Operations
Location: Moorpark, CA

ABOUT US

Gooch & Housego (G&H) is a global precision photonics manufacturer serving the industrial, aerospace & defense, life sciences, and semiconductor markets. With operations across North America, Europe, and Asia, G&H designs and manufactures advanced optical components, systems, and subsystems that enable some of the world's most demanding applications.

THE ROLE

The Manufacturing Manager reports to the Director of Operations and partners closely with cross-functional teams to oversee the day-to-day operations of the manufacturing department. This role is responsible for leading a team of technicians and operators to achieve production targets while maintaining high standards of quality, safety, and operational efficiency. The successful candidate will have a proven track record of delivering results, driving continuous improvement, and developing high-performing teams.

 RESPONSIBILITIES

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the photonics manufacturing department, including staffing, scheduling, training, and performance management.
• Partner with Manufacturing Team Leads to establish priorities, monitor progress, allocate resources, and ensure production schedules are achieved.
• Work closely with the Production Planner to meet or exceed production targets while maintaining quality, on-time delivery (OTD), and safety standards.
• Serve as the primary liaison between production teams and management.
• Evaluate operating practices and recommend process improvements.
• Mentor and develop team members while identifying and implementing training plans.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Quality, and other cross-functional teams to ensure products meet customer and quality requirements.
• Lead and participate in Lean, 6S, and Kaizen initiatives.
• Ensure manufacturing equipment is properly maintained, calibrated, and operated to maximize productivity while coordinating maintenance activities with the Facilities Manager.
• Develop and implement standard operating procedures and document best practices to improve efficiency, quality, safety, and throughput across all work centers.
• Promote a strong safety culture by ensuring compliance with safety regulations and best practices.

 SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS

• Associate degree or equivalent combination of education and relevant work experience.
• Minimum of five years of supervisory experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience with optical fabrication, optical coating, and assembly processes.
• Demonstrated leadership skills with the ability to motivate, develop, and engage teams.
• Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Spanish language skills (verbal and written) are a plus.
• Willingness to learn, adapt, and take on new challenges.
• Ability to interpret manufacturing travelers and work instructions.
• Six Sigma Green Belt certification or demonstrated experience applying Lean manufacturing methodologies preferred.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and other relevant business software.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

This job description is intended to describe the primary purpose and key responsibilities of the role. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties, and employees may be required to perform other related responsibilities as assigned.

G&H is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected characteristic protected by applicable law.

This role may involve access to items or technical data subject to U.S. Export Control Laws, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Candidates may be required to confirm eligibility to access such information in accordance with applicable regulations.