Operational Excellence Lead

Hera Technologies is a premier contract manufacturer specializing in high-precision metallic and non-metallic solutions for the Aerospace, Defense, and Space sectors. Our commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction has positioned us as an industry leader in the design, manufacturing and maintenance of thermal support systems. Our team is driven by excellence, integrity, and a passion for advancing aerospace technology.Take the next step in your career with a company committed to excellence, where your contributions are recognized, and your potential is realized.Hera Technologies is seeking a hands-on Operational Excellence Lead to drive factory flow optimization across our production floor. This role will focus on improving end-to-end material flow, implementing ERP-driven manufacturing processes, and enhancing operational efficiency in a fast-paced aerospace manufacturing environment.The ideal candidate brings a strong blend of lean manufacturing, systems thinking, and shop floor execution, with the ability to translate data into actionable improvements that impact throughput, cost, and on-time delivery.Key ResponsibilitiesLead factory flow optimization initiatives, including material movement, work-in-process (WIP) reduction, and production sequencingSupport ERP system deployment and adoption on the shop floor, ensuring accurate routing, labor tracking, and transaction flowAnalyze current-state workflows and develop future-state value stream maps to improve throughput and eliminate wasteDesign and implement facility layouts, cell configurations, and line balancing to maximize efficiency and capacity utilizationDevelop and optimize manufacturing methods, tooling, and equipment to support scalable productionEstablish and enhance visual factory systems (kanban, production boards, standard work) to improve visibility and controlPartner cross-functionally with Production, Quality, Supply Chain, and Engineering to resolve bottlenecks and process inefficienciesDrive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean principles (5S, Kaizen, root cause analysis, etc.)Create and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs), work instructions, and routing documentationSupport quality and compliance efforts, ensuring processes meet aerospace standards and internal specificationsMonitor and drive performance against KPIs such as on-time delivery, WIP levels, cycle time, schedule adherence, and cost reductionRequired QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field3–7+ years of experience in manufacturing or industrial engineering, preferably within aerospace, defense, or complex manufacturing environmentsHands-on experience with ERP systems (implementation, optimization, or shop floor integration)Strong knowledge of lean manufacturing principles, value stream mapping, and visual management systemsExperience with factory layout design, process flow optimization, and line balancingAbility to interpret technical drawings, production data, and cost metrics to drive decisionsProficiency with CAD software (SolidWorks or similar) for layout and process designProven problem-solving skills with the ability to identify root causes and implement sustainable solutionsStrong communication and project management skills with a high level of ownership and accountability Preferred QualificationsExperience in a high-mix, low-to-medium volume aerospace or defense manufacturing environmentExposure to PE-backed or rapidly scaling organizations, with the ability to build and standardize processes in a growth settingFamiliarity with AS9100 quality standards and regulated manufacturing environmentsLean Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or higher)Salary Range: $80,000 - $140,000 a yearJob DetailsJob Type: Fulltime, SalariedLocation: 100% onsite Ontario, CAReports to: Director of OperationsSchedule: Core business hours, Monday to FridayTravel: NoneYour actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.Total compensation will also include a comprehensive set of benefits including but not limited to: Company paid employee medical, dental and vision insurance. Retirement plan participation (eligibility required), paid sick leave, paid vacation, paid holidays and discretionary bonuses.EXPORT CONTROL REQUIREMENTS:To conform to US Government export regulations, the applicant must be a (i) US Citizen, (ii) lawful permanent resident of the U.S. (aka green card holder), (iii) protected individual as defined by U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or (iv) eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.Canopy A&D is an Equal Opportunity Employer, employment with Canopy A&D is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.