Job Title: Chief Operating Officer
Location: Encinitas, CA
Company: HTF Aerospace
About Us:
HTF Aerospace is a leading provider of aerospace solutions, known for fast and dependable service in fulfilling the needs of our clients. Our team is made up of dedicated professionals to affirm the highest quality of service possible in sourcing the needs of the client. Based in Encinitas, CA, we are looking for an experienced COO to help us maintain and expand our operational efficiency.
Our team of specialists takes pride in being resourceful, quickly devising innovative solutions to overcome challenges. We are highly adaptable, adjusting to meet customer needs and making modifications when necessary. Our reliability ensures that customers can depend on us for responsive service and effective solutions. We value collaboration and communication, ensuring on-time delivery, while maintaining a strong focus on following processes and delivering exceptional quality.
Position Overview:
The COO at HTF Aerospace is a key executive responsible for overseeing an organization's daily operations and ensuring that business strategies are effectively executed. As the second-in-command to the CEO, the COO focuses on streamlining internal processes, optimizing efficiency, and driving operational excellence across departments. Their role often includes managing key functions such as finance, human resources, IT, supply chain, and production, depending on the company's industry and structure. The COO works closely with other executives to align operational goals with the overall strategic vision, ensuring sustainable growth and profitability. With a strong emphasis on leadership, problem-solving, and performance management, the COO plays a crucial role in maintaining stability while also driving innovation and change within the organization.
Key Responsibilities:
• Leadership & Team Management:
o Lead and mentor a team of operations professionals, fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement.
o Oversee scheduling, staffing, and training to ensure the team has the necessary resources and skills to meet operational goals.
o Conduct performance reviews and implement development plans for team members.
o Foster a high-performance, values-driven culture by modeling accountability, encouraging open communication, and implementing initiatives that promote employee engagement, professional growth, and a shared sense of purpose across the organization.
o Serve as the first point of escalation for the sourcing and procurement team, providing guidance, resolving issues, and removing roadblocks to ensure continuity, efficiency, and alignment with company objectives.
o Develop and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers and customers to ensure reliability, negotiate favorable terms, anticipate demand, and foster long-term partnerships that support strategic growth and operational stability.
• Process Optimization:
o Develop, implement, and continuously improve operational processes to ensure maximum efficiency and product quality.
o Identify bottlenecks and streamline workflows across departments, from production to delivery.
o Implement lean processing principles to reduce waste and improve cost management.
• Supply Chain & Inventory Management:
o Oversee inventory levels, ensuring accurate forecasting and efficient material procurement.
o Manage supplier relationships and monitor performance to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery of materials.
o Work with logistics to ensure products are delivered on time and in compliance with client specifications.
o
• Quality Control & Compliance:
o Oversee and manage the AS9120 Quality Management System, ensuring full compliance with aerospace industry standards through continuous improvement initiatives, internal audits, training, and documentation; act as liaison during external audits and certification processes.
o Ensure that all operations adhere to industry standards, regulatory requirements, and company quality standards.
o Work closely with the quality assurance team to address any product issues and implement corrective actions.
• Financial Oversight & Reporting:
o Develop and manage departmental budgets, monitor expenses, and implement cost-control measures.
o Provide regular reports to senior leadership on operational performance, key performance indicators (KPIs), and ongoing projects.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration:
o Collaborate with engineering, production, and sales teams to ensure alignment between operations and product development timelines.
o Provide operational input on new projects, ensuring the feasibility and efficiency of implementation.
o Collaborate with IT to ensure systems infrastructure supports operational efficiency, including ERP optimization, data integrity, cybersecurity, and the integration of tools that enhance automation and decision-making across departments.
Qualifications:
• Bachelor’s degree in business, Engineering, Operations Management, or related field (preferred).
• 5+ years of experience in operations management, preferably in the aerospace or manufacturing industry.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate, guide, and develop teams.
• Extensive experience with lean manufacturing and process optimization.
• Knowledge of aerospace industry regulations and quality standards (AS9120, ISO 9001, etc.).
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Proficiency with ERP software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic work environment.
Why HTF Aerospace?
• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
• A dynamic, collaborative, and innovative work environment.
• Be part of an industry leader in aerospace technology.
Compensation Range for the Position:
• ~ $185,000 based on Experience
• Bonus for meeting plan equal to 25 percent of base salary
• 3 Weeks paid vacation annually
• Health Care package
If you're passionate about operational excellence, leadership, and making an impact in the aerospace industry, we’d love to hear from you. Apply today to join our team at HTF Aerospace.
