about operations manager jobs
Working as an operations manager in engineering takes a strong combination of engineering, business and technology skills. Taking on a similar role to that of a project manager, you will be responsible for overseeing all those involved in key projects. You will help coordinate all aspects of the project, including hiring professionals, managing timelines, coordinating tasks, and ensuring the project stays on time and budget. If you believe you have the right combination of engineering experience and business acumen, consider this as a career option. To look more into this opportunity, contact Randstad Canada today!
what operations manager jobs entail
Operations managers work in a traditional office environment. Many work more than the average 40-hour work week, especially as the project comes closer to completion. Some evening and weekend work may be required. Depending on the project, you may also be required to travel to project development sites and to meet clients and key stakeholders. Much of your work will be spent reporting on project status and keeping all those involved updated. You will report directly to the client or to a senior official within your organization.
average operations manager salaries
The average annual salary for operations managers working in the engineering industry is about $110,000 per year. One the low end of the salary scale, you can expect to make about $90,000 per year. On the high end of the salary scale, you can make up to $130,000 or more. Performance bonuses and other incentives may also be part of your compensation package.
your day to day tasks
As an engineering operations manager, your day-to-day tasks can vary greatly depending on the project on which you are working, and the project’s phase. Here are some of the tasks that will be included in your role:
- provide leadership to a team
- oversee operations of a department or project
- act as the liaison between all parties involved in a project
- keep all parties updated about project progress
- train support staff to ensure all parties are meeting expectations
- manage project costs and ensure the budget goals are met
- meet with clients
- manage key performance indicators
- establish policies and processes to support project development
- report project status and updates
where you can work
Engineering operations managers commonly work for engineering consulting firms or directly for large companies that are involved with product development. They can work in many industries including retail, manufacturing, construction, health care, and information technology. Opportunities exist across the country. The type of role depends on your area of specialization. Many engineering operations managers find work in Toronto, GTA, Ottawa, Vancouver, Edmonton, and Calgary.
what you bring to the table
Successful engineering operations managers have a strong business sense with a specialization in engineering. You have a diverse skill set that allows you to manage and coordinate all aspects of a building, design, or product development project. Here are some of the skills hiring companies are seeking:
- exceptional leadership skills
- strong business and technology acumen
- excellent communication skills
- strong strategic planning and time management abilities
- a team player
- exceptional problem solver
- strong finance, accounting, and budgeting skills
- ability to sell and market new ideas to clients and stakeholders
training and certifications
Hiring companies are seeking candidates with a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in engineering along with a number of years of experience in a related role. Many are seeking candidates with a master’s degree, such as an MBA, or related business experience. Engineering or business certification related to operations management is an asset.
where your career is headed
To work as an operations manager in engineering, you are required to have extensive experience. Those working in operations management roles tend to remain in this role long term. Many move on to work with other companies or choose to specialize in a particular area of operations management. There are also opportunities to move into other engineering management roles.
Do you work in operations management? Are you an engineer ready to make a career move? Randstad Canada can help you find operations management roles in engineering that meet your job search criteria. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you take the next step in your career.