Operations Manager - Parksville, BC

Position ID: JD344
Location: Parksville, BC
Industry: Industrial

About the Company

Our client is a growing, privately held manufacturer specializing in custom metal fabrication for a wide range of industrial applications. With a strong reputation for quality craftsmanship, safety, and innovation, the company is entering an exciting new phase of growth — making this an ideal time to join the leadership team.

The Opportunity

As Operations Manager, you’ll play a pivotal role in guiding the company’s operational growth and transformation. Initially, you’ll have direct, hands-on oversight of shop operations, engineering, procurement, and safety. Over time, as the team expands and a Production Manager joins, your focus will shift toward strategy, supply chain optimization, and organizational development.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys being both hands-on and strategic, with the opportunity to shape systems, culture, and processes as the business scales.

Stage 1 Responsibilities

  • Oversee all shop floor operations, supervising Lead Hands and production activities.
  • Mentor the drafting/engineering team to ensure accurate, timely drawings and specifications. -Manage procurement activities, ensuring cost-effective and reliable sourcing.
  • Identify and implement process improvements that enhance efficiency and communication.
  • Oversee health and safety compliance, fostering a culture of accountability and care.
  • Support HR functions such as recruitment, training, and performance management.
  • Act as the primary liaison between operations and senior leadership, reporting on production and performance.
  • Lead cross-functional initiatives to solve production challenges and drive results.
  • Monitor KPIs, analyze trends, and identify opportunities for improvement.
  • Build a culture of continuous improvement and teamwork.

Stage 2 Responsibilities (12–24 Months)

  • Transition day-to-day shop leadership to the Production Manager and move into broader operational oversight.
  • Continue to mentor the engineering team as they adopt advanced CAD and design tools.
  • Lead supply chain optimization and vendor management initiatives.
  • Drive quality assurance and cross-departmental process improvement projects.
  • Oversee HR and organizational development at a strategic level.
  • Strengthen internal communication and reporting systems.
  • Champion long-term operational strategies that align with company growth goals.

Qualifications

  • Degree or diploma in Engineering, Manufacturing, or a related field.
  • 5–10+ years of experience in manufacturing operations or supply chain management.
  • Proven leadership skills with the ability to develop and mentor teams.
  • Experience in welding, metal fabrication, CNC, or outsourced production.
  • Strong understanding of procurement, quality systems, and process improvement.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Solid grasp of workplace health and safety regulations.
  • Familiarity with production planning or CAD software is an asset.
  • Hands-on leadership style and ability to thrive in a fast-moving, growth-oriented environment.

Compensation

  • Solid base salary
  • Performance-based bonus program
  • Comprehensive benefits package
  • Opportunities for advancement as the company continues to grow

Why Apply?

This is a rare opportunity to step into a key leadership role where your ideas and initiatives will shape the company’s next stage of growth. You’ll join a team that values collaboration, innovation, and integrity, and you’ll have the autonomy to build systems, develop people, and leave a lasting impact. If you’re a driven operations leader who thrives in a hands-on environment and enjoys building structure in a growing organization, this role offers both challenge and reward.

To apply, please submit your resume in confidence to jay@otrg.ca