Manufacturing Operations Director in Oklahoma Career Overview
As a Manufacturing Operations Director, you hold a vital position within the manufacturing sector, overseeing the production processes of your organization to ensure efficiency and quality. Your role involves managing daily operations, from supply chain management to workforce coordination.
Key responsibilities typically include:
- Developing and implementing strategies to enhance productivity and operational performance.
- Monitoring manufacturing processes to ensure they align with safety and quality standards.
- Coordinating with various departments, such as engineering, sales, and logistics, to ensure a seamless workflow.
- Leading teams to meet production goals, while fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
- Analyzing performance data and manufacturing metrics to identify areas for improvement.
Your contributions are critical to maintaining competitive advantage in the manufacturing industry. By optimizing operations, you help your organization reduce costs, improve product quality, and increase customer satisfaction. Your leadership directly influences the company's ability to adapt to market changes and technological advancements, making your role essential for long-term success.
Manufacturing Operations Director Salary in Oklahoma
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become a Manufacturing Operations Director in Oklahoma
To become a Manufacturing Operations Director, you typically need a combination of formal education and specialized training. Here are the recommended degree programs:
Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and Management
- Focuses on core business principles and management strategies.
- Provides a foundation in finance, marketing, and organizational behavior.
Bachelor’s Degree in Manufacturing Engineering
- Emphasizes the design and optimization of manufacturing processes.
- Covers topics such as materials science, production methods, and quality control.
Bachelor’s Degree in Operations Management and Supervision
- Centers on managing production processes and supply chains.
- Includes courses in logistics, inventory management, and process improvement.
Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering
- Combines engineering principles with business practices.
- Teaches how to improve systems, processes, and operations efficiency.
Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Production Technologies
- Focuses on the technical aspects of production processes.
- Involves training in automation, manufacturing systems, and production planning.
In addition to these degree programs, many candidates pursue advanced degrees, such as a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) or a Master’s in Engineering Management, to further enhance their qualifications and leadership capabilities in the manufacturing sector. Professional certifications related to manufacturing and operations can also be beneficial. Experience in manufacturing environments, typically gained through internships or entry-level positions, may be essential for career progression to a director role.
Best Schools to become a Manufacturing Operations Director in Oklahoma 2024
University of Phoenix-Arizona
Southern New Hampshire University
Western Governors University
Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs
Grand Canyon University
Liberty University
- Plan, direct, or coordinate the work activities and resources necessary for manufacturing products in accordance with cost, quality, and quantity specifications.
Manufacturing Operations Director Required Skills and Competencies in Oklahoma
To excel as a Manufacturing Operations Director, you should develop and refine the following skills and competencies:
Leadership Skills
- Ability to inspire and motivate teams.
- Experience in managing cross-functional teams effectively.
- Competence in conflict resolution and fostering a collaborative environment.
Strategic Planning
- Proficiency in developing long-term manufacturing strategies that align with organizational goals.
- Capability to analyze market trends and adjust operations accordingly.
Operational Excellence
- Strong understanding of lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.
- Ability to implement operational efficiencies and reduce waste.
Financial Acumen
- Knowledge of budgeting, forecasting, and cost control techniques.
- Ability to analyze financial reports and make data-driven decisions to improve profitability.
Project Management
- Skills in planning, executing, and overseeing projects from inception to completion.
- Ability to manage resources effectively and adhere to timelines.
Technical Proficiency
- Familiarity with manufacturing technologies, tools, and equipment.
- Competence in using data analytics to drive performance improvements.
Regulatory Knowledge
- Understanding of industry regulations, safety standards, and compliance requirements.
- Ability to ensure all operations meet legal and environmental standards.
Communication Skills
- Strong verbal and written communication abilities to interact with stakeholders at all levels.
- Capability to present complex information clearly to diverse audiences.
Problem-Solving Skills
- Ability to analyze complex situations, identify root causes, and implement effective solutions.
- Proficient in utilizing both qualitative and quantitative methods for problem resolution.
Change Management
- Skills in guiding teams through transitions and managing resistance to change.
- Ability to foster a culture of adaptability and innovation.
Job Duties for Manufacturing Operations Directors
Direct or coordinate production, processing, distribution, or marketing activities of industrial organizations.
Review processing schedules or production orders to make decisions concerning inventory requirements, staffing requirements, work procedures, or duty assignments, considering budgetary limitations and time constraints.
Set and monitor product standards, examining samples of raw products or directing testing during processing, to ensure finished products are of prescribed quality.
Enterprise resource planning ERP software
- Oracle PeopleSoft
- SAP software
Industrial control software
- Schneider Electric CitectSCADA
- Supervisory control and data acquisition SCADA software
Video creation and editing software
- Adobe After Effects
- YouTube
Basic Skills
- Keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
- Talking to others
People and Technology Systems
- Figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
- Thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one
Problem Solving
- Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Job Market and Opportunities for Manufacturing Operations Director in Oklahoma
The job market for Manufacturing Operations Directors in Oklahoma is increasingly favorable, reflecting both local and national trends in the manufacturing sector. Here are key points to consider regarding the current landscape:
Demand: As companies seek to enhance operational efficiencies and improve production quality, the demand for skilled operations directors is on the rise. Industries such as aerospace, automotive, and food processing are particularly in need of seasoned professionals to lead their teams and streamline production processes.
Growth Potential: The manufacturing sector in Oklahoma has exhibited steady growth, attributed to advancements in technology and an increase in domestic and international orders. This growth translates to more opportunities for directors who can manage complex operations and implement innovative strategies.
Geographical Hotspots: Certain areas in Oklahoma are more dynamic in manufacturing than others. Key cities include:
- Tulsa: Known for its strong aerospace and energy sectors, Tulsa has numerous manufacturing firms that demand proficient leadership in operations.
- Oklahoma City: With a diverse manufacturing base, including machinery and fabrication, the state's capital offers various opportunities for career advancement.
- Broken Arrow: This area has seen growth in sectors such as electronics and consumer products, creating additional positions for operations directors.
Industry Collaboration: Oklahoma is home to several organizations and initiatives aimed at promoting manufacturing, which contribute to job creation and networking opportunities for professionals in this field. Engaging with these resources can enhance your job prospects.
Workforce Development: There is ongoing investment in workforce training and development focused on enhancing manufacturing skills. Such initiatives will likely create a larger pool of talent, which may increase the demand for experienced operations directors to guide teams and drive processes.
In summary, the job market for Manufacturing Operations Directors in Oklahoma is characterized by robust demand, strong growth potential, and concentrated manufacturing hubs. Engaging with local industry trends and networks will further enhance your opportunities in this expanding field.
Top Related Careers to Manufacturing Operations Director 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become a Manufacturing Operations Director in Oklahoma
National Association of Manufacturers (NAM)
- A key organization representing manufacturers in the U.S.
- Offers resources on industry trends, policy advocacy, and networking opportunities.
- NAM Website
Manufacturing Institute
- Provides workforce development resources and initiatives for manufacturing.
- Focuses on skills training and education in the manufacturing sector.
- Manufacturing Institute Website
American Society for Quality (ASQ)
- Offers training, certifications, and resources focused on quality management and improvement.
- Provides tools and frameworks beneficial for operational excellence in manufacturing.
- ASQ Website
Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME)
- This organization supports the advancement of manufacturing through education, training, and certification.
- Offers resources such as webinars, publications, and networking events.
- SME Website
IEEE Industrial Electronics Society
- Focuses on the application of electronics, controls, and computer engineering in the manufacturing process.
- Provides access to publications, conferences, and technical resources.
- IEEE Industrial Electronics Society
Oklahoma Manufacturing Alliance
- A state-specific organization that collaborates with manufacturers to improve competitiveness and profitability.
- Offers training, consulting, and resources tailored to Oklahoma manufacturers.
- Oklahoma Manufacturing Alliance Website
LinkedIn Learning
- Provides a wide range of online courses on manufacturing operations, leadership, project management, and lean manufacturing principles.
- Great for skill enhancement and professional development.
- LinkedIn Learning
Project Management Institute (PMI)
- Offers resources and certifications that are beneficial for enhancing project management skills in manufacturing operations.
- Provides access to knowledge, tools, and networking opportunities.
- PMI Website
Books
- "The Lean Six Sigma Pocket Toolbook" by Michael L. George
- "Operations Management for Dummies" by Mary Ann Anderson, et al.
- "The Goal: A Process of Ongoing Improvement" by Eliyahu M. Goldratt
Manufacturing Resource Center (MRC)
- Provides information and resources for manufacturers looking to implement best practices in operations management.
- Offers consulting services and reference materials tailored for operational improvements.
- MRC Website
Utilizing these resources can help you stay informed about best practices, trends, and professional development opportunities within the manufacturing operations sector.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Manufacturing Operations Director in Oklahoma
What are the primary responsibilities of a Manufacturing Operations Director?
As a Manufacturing Operations Director, you are responsible for overseeing the manufacturing process, ensuring operational efficiency, managing budgets, developing production schedules, and leading teams. You will also implement strategies to improve productivity and quality while ensuring compliance with safety standards and regulations.What qualifications are required for this position?
Typically, a bachelor's degree in engineering, manufacturing, business administration, or a related field is required. Many employers prefer candidates with a master's degree or MBA. Additionally, relevant certifications (such as Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing) and several years of experience in manufacturing management are highly beneficial.What skills are essential for a Manufacturing Operations Director?
Key skills include strong leadership, excellent communication, problem-solving abilities, project management, and in-depth knowledge of manufacturing processes and techniques. Proficiency in data analysis and familiarity with quality control systems are also important.What is the typical salary range for Manufacturing Operations Directors in Oklahoma?
The salary for a Manufacturing Operations Director in Oklahoma can vary, but it generally ranges from $90,000 to $150,000 annually, depending on the size of the company and the director's level of experience.What industries commonly employ Manufacturing Operations Directors?
Manufacturing Operations Directors are employed across various industries, including automotive, aerospace, electronics, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods.What is the career progression for someone in this role?
Typically, you may start in positions such as Production Manager or Operations Manager before advancing to the role of Manufacturing Operations Director. With sufficient experience and demonstrated success, you may eventually progress to higher executive roles such as Vice President of Operations or Chief Operations Officer.How can I advance my career as a Manufacturing Operations Director?
To advance your career, focus on gaining experience in various manufacturing processes, enhancing your leadership skills, and continuing your education through certifications or advanced degrees. Networking within the industry and seeking mentorship can also be beneficial.What challenges do Manufacturing Operations Directors face?
Common challenges include managing labor shortages, addressing supply chain disruptions, maintaining production quality, and implementing new technology. Adapting to changes in regulations and market demand can also present significant challenges.What are the job outlook and growth prospects for this career?
The job outlook for Manufacturing Operations Directors is generally positive, as the manufacturing sector continues to evolve with new technologies and processes. There is a growing focus on efficiency and sustainability, which drives demand for skilled leaders in this field.How important is technology in the role of a Manufacturing Operations Director?
Technology plays a critical role in modern manufacturing operations. As a Manufacturing Operations Director, you will need to understand how to leverage new technologies, such as automation and data analytics, to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance production quality.