Job Description
Our client is seeking an experienced Senior Manager, Optical Laboratory - Manufacturing to lead and optimize operations at our Northern California Optical Manufacturing Lab located in Richmond, CA. This position oversees a large-scale manufacturing operation of 110+ full-time employees and 5 direct reports , producing more than 450,000 eyeglass orders per year .
The ideal candidate is a strategic and hands-on manufacturing leader who thrives in a fast-paced, highly regulated environment, ensuring superior product quality, operational efficiency, and team engagement.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead all aspects of daily and long-term operations for the Richmond Optical Manufacturing Lab.
- Manage and mentor a team of 110+ FTEs to achieve production, quality, and satisfaction goals.
- Drive key performance metrics including Turnaround Time (TAT) , First Pass Yield , and Customer Satisfaction .
- Oversee budgeting, financial planning, and cost optimization initiatives for the lab.
- Ensure strict compliance with federal, state, and safety regulations (OSHA, FDA, ANSI, ISO).
- Champion continuous improvement through Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies.
- Lead strategic asset and inventory management programs ensuring optimal use of resources.
- Develop and implement a comprehensive safety program fostering a culture of workplace safety.
- Direct procurement and maintenance of optical lab equipment, ensuring proper calibration and uptime.
- Design and deliver ongoing training and professional development programs for staff.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with leadership and stakeholders to align lab operations with business goals.
- Promote employee engagement and uphold organizational values within a Labor Management Partnership environment.
Requirements
Minimum Requirements :
Bachelor's degree in Business Management, Business Administration, Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) or a related field.Minimum 8 years of experience in an optical lab or directly related manufacturing environment , OR minimum 11 years of relevant experience without a degree.At least 7 years of leadership experience managing teams and operational budgets.Minimum 5 years of experience in optical manufacturing, computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), eyewear fabrication , or related field.Preferred Qualifications :
Optician Certification from the American Board of Opticianry (ABO) .Six Sigma Green Belt Certification .Background in Supply Chain Management or Manufacturing Process Optimization .Key Skills & Competencies
Optical Manufacturing & Laboratory OperationsBudget Management & Financial AcumenLean Six Sigma & Continuous ImprovementSafety & Regulatory Compliance (OSHA, FDA, ANSI, ISO)Team Leadership & Talent DevelopmentStrategic Planning & ExecutionOptical Equipment Maintenance & ProcurementQuality Assurance & Customer SatisfactionWhy Join
This is an exceptional opportunity to lead a high-performing optical manufacturing team that delivers premium eyewear products to Northern California members. You'll have the autonomy to innovate, optimize, and shape the operational excellence of a major healthcare optical lab.