Job Description
Job DescriptionDescription:
KLa Systems, an Integrated Water Services (IWS) company, supplies innovative jet aeration and jet mixing systems for industry, water utilities, and municipalities around the world. KLa Systems has the most experienced team of oxygen transfer professionals in the industry and over the past 35 years, our team has successfully completed more than 1,700 jet aeration/mixing projects in 38 different countries.
IWS has been at the forefront of transforming water challenges into sustainable solutions for over 20 years. Our team of passionate innovators designs and builds cutting-edge water and wastewater treatment systems that protect communities and the environment. From bustling cities to remote regions, we are making a real, positive impact on the world.
Position Summary
The Operations Manager is responsible for ensuring the smooth and efficient flow of customer orders from receipt through engineering, production, field service inspections, startup and testing. This role drives productivity, quality and profitability by implementing effective methods and strategies, leveraging all company resources — including Sales, Engineering, Accounting, Administration, Management, and external partners — under the direction of corporate leadership.
Key Responsibilities
Pre-Order
- Maintain and update the sales cost-estimate database for accurate project cost estimation by Sales.
- Maintain and update General Engineering Standards to support Sales in material take-offs and equipment standards.
- Coordinate the Sales-to-Engineering order handoff, ensuring Engineering receives all necessary specifications, proposals, communications, and order details for submittals, fabrication, and field service commitments.
Engineering
- Develop, maintain, and distribute detailed Engineering Standards (rule of thumb specifications).
- Schedule and review engineering submittal packages and production releases to manufacturing, ensuring compliance with best practices, specifications, and customer requirements.
- Coordinate customer delivery requests with Engineering, Production, and Field Service teams.
- Maintain a real-time production schedule tracking all active projects from Letter of Intent to completion.
- Compare completed job costs against sales estimates to improve estimating, engineering, and purchasing techniques.
Production
- Ensure suppliers and vendors receive accurate, detailed purchase orders, including quality control, inspection, and shipping requirements, as well as any relevant equipment specifications.
- Monitor project status with suppliers and vendors, expediting as needed.
- Ensure suppliers and vendors maintain appropriate insurance coverage per company requirements.
- Obtain material certifications and fabrication photos when required.
- Develop and maintain strong supplier and vendor relationships, focusing on best pricing, product quality, delivery reliability, and risk management. Maintain at least two qualified suppliers for critical items where possible.
- Manage company inventory and maintain molds and tools for production.
Field Service
- Develop and maintain field service standards, updating as needed.
- Coordinate field service visits with customers, Engineering, and Field Service Engineers, clarifying responsibilities and cost allocation (warranty, goodwill, customer charge).
- Track field service budgets versus proposed and actual costs.
- Issue official reports to customers as applicable.
R&D and Testing
- Oversee and coordinate R&D and testing activities in alignment with corporate goals and directives.
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, or a related discipline (preferred).
- Demonstrated experience in operations management within manufacturing or engineering environments.
- Strong organizational, leadership, and communication skills.
- Proficiency with project management and ERP systems, with the ability to leverage data for operational decision-making.
- Strong analytical skills with a proven ability to evaluate processes and implement improvements.
- High level of initiative with the ability to work independently and drive results.
Benefits:
- Competitive wages
- Comprehensive benefits package (medical, dental, vision, STD, LTD)
- Paid time off (PTO) to recharge and explore
- 401(k) retirement plan to secure your future
Plus, an opportunity to grow your skills and advance your career!
IWS is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based on marital status, race, color, creed, gender, sex, religion, national origin, gender identity, age, veteran status, union affiliation, physical or mental disability, citizenship status, or sexual orientation.