Operations Manager - Switchgear

At IEM, we’re not just building innovative electrical distribution systems, we’re shaping the future. IEM is dedicated to delivering world-class solutions for complex power needs. After 75 years, we continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible. Whether you’re an experienced professional or just starting out, you’ll have the opportunity to contribute, grow, and make a lasting impact on industries that power the world’s most dynamic markets.

IEM is currently seeking Operations Managers for our switchgear team in Surrey, B.C. location and will report into the Director of Operations . The Operations Manager is responsible for end-to-end ownership of the production value stream, driving operational performance, efficiency, and continuous improvement while ensuring alignment with strategic objectives and customer expectations.

This role is accountable for meeting key performance indicators (KPIs) related to safety, quality, delivery, cost, and efficiency while fostering a data-driven, bottom-up problem-solving culture. They will lead a cross-functional production team, ensuring that workflow optimization, resource utilization, and Lean manufacturing principles are effectively applied to drive operational excellence.

This position collaborates closely with Planning, Materials, Quality, Engineering, and Maintenance to optimize processes, resolve bottlenecks, and implement continuous improvement initiatives that support long-term business growth.

Please note: This position requires 100% in-office presence in our Surrey, B.C.   offices and does not offer remote work.  This is a day shift position. 

Essential Functions:

• KPI Ownership & Performance Management: Own, monitor, and drive improvement in key performance indicators (KPIs) including on-time delivery (OTD), first-pass yield (FPY), defects per unit (DPU), safety incidents, and cost efficiency within the value stream.
• Lead Daily Operations: Oversee daily production activities, ensuring work is executed safely, efficiently, and in alignment with production schedules, quality standards, and operational goals.
• Team Leadership & Accountability: Manage and develop a cross-functional team including production, quality, materials, and maintenance. Set expectations, provide coaching, and ensure accountability at all levels.
• Production Scheduling & Efficiency: Partner with Production Planning and Materials teams to align demand with capacity, ensuring a balanced workflow, efficient material usage, and optimized labor deployment.
• Data-Driven Problem Solving: Lead root cause analysis and corrective actions for operational issues, using tools such as Pareto analysis, A3 problem-solving, and process mapping to drive improvements.
• Continuous Improvement & Lean Implementation: Champion Lean manufacturing principles, eliminating waste and driving efficiency through 5S, Kaizen, Standard Work, and Value Stream Mapping (VSM) initiatives.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with Engineering, Quality, and Maintenance teams to identify and resolve design, process, or equipment issues affecting production.
• Compliance & Safety: Ensure adherence to safety policies, quality standards, and regulatory requirements. Champion a culture of zero injuries and high-quality production.
• The candidate will be expected to perform  additional duties as assigned to support the team and organization.

Qualifications:

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Business, Industrial Technology, or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in manufacturing or operations environments
• 5+ years in a supervisory or managerial role (Operations Manager, Production Manager, Production Supervisor Manufacturing Manager, Value Stream Leadership roles.
• Proven track record of improving KPIs (e.g., cycle time reduction, FPY improvements, DPU reductions, or cost-saving initiatives).
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt (or higher) preferred.
• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is a plus.
• APICS, CPIM, or other supply chain-related certification is a plus for materials-heavy value streams.
• Leadership & Team Development: Proven ability to develop, coach, and manage cross-functional teams, ensuring accountability and engagement.
• Data-Driven Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and critical thinking skills with experience in using KPIs, root cause analysis, and Lean tools to drive decision-making.
• Process Optimization: Hands-on experience in Lean manufacturing, value stream mapping, waste elimination, and production workflow optimization.
• Communication & Stakeholder Engagement: Ability to communicate effectively with shop floor teams, peers, and senior leadership, ensuring alignment across the organization.
• Time Management & Prioritization: Strong ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and drive results in a fast-paced environment.
• Technical Proficiency: Experience with ERP/MRP systems (INFOR/Syteline a plus), Tableau, and Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word) for reporting and data analysis.
• Demonstrated career ambition with  a track record of growth and increasing responsibility; highly promotable with the potential to take on broader leadership roles within a fast-paced, high-growth organization.

Compensation actually offered for this role will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate's geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. A bonus and/or long-term incentive units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to the full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered.

[Compensation Range: CAD 123,000 - 152,000] 

Why Join IEM

At IEM, you’ll join a team that powers some of the world’s most ambitious projects. We’re engineers, makers, and problem-solvers who thrive on tackling complex challenges and delivering solutions that keep industries moving forward. If you’re driven, collaborative, and ready to make an impact, we’d love to hear from you. Your creativity and passion can help us achieve great things—come be part of the journey.

Learn more about IEM at

We offer comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support our employees' well-being, growth, and long-term success. View a snapshot of our benefits at

Recruiting Scams

Beware of recruiting scams. IEM never charges candidates fees, and all recruiter emails come from an @iemfg.com address. If you suspect fraudulent activity, do not share personal information and report it to us at  iemfg.com/contact

Non-Discrimination Statement

IEM does not discriminate against any applicant based on any characteristic protected by law.

Privacy

Information collected and processed as part of your IEM Careers profile, and any job applications you choose to submit is subject to IEM's Workforce Member Privacy Policy.