Operations Manager – Surface Protection

Are you a results-driven leader with a passion for the aerospace industry and surface protection? Here’s your chance to oversee the daily operations of surface protection services for aircraft in Hamburg, Germany. This pivotal role puts you at the heart of ensuring that production, quality, and compliance standards are met, setting the stage for your career growth and making a substantial impact on a top-tier aviation company. If you’re ready to lead a high-performing team and innovate quality management systems that enhance customer satisfaction, this is the perfect opportunity for you.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of 25+ employees in the Surface Protection department.
• Ensure safe and efficient operations across all activities.
• Oversee daily production planning, execution, and delivery.
• Ensure compliance with Airbus and OEM standards.
• Implement and improve Quality Management Systems (AS9100, EN9100, ISO9001).
• Coordinate annual service-level and customer audits.
• Drive compliance and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Implement performance management systems and KPIs.
• Manage employee training, mentoring, and development.
• Coordinate with cross-functional departments to align resources and priorities.
• Support the General Manager with strategic and operational initiatives.
• Promote a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
• Ensure environmental compliance, including REACH regulations.
• Develop operations, quality assurance, and control policies.
• Recruit and manage personnel to meet operational demands.
• Maintain special process qualifications by aircraft type and facility.
• Manage and coordinate disciplinary actions.
• Develop and implement a business continuity plan.
• Monitor project status to meet financial and operational objectives.
• Engage with customers to review program performance and scheduling.
• Manage internal and external audits and respond to assessments.
• Solve program issues using formal RCCA processes.
• Continuously evaluate and improve the surface protection program.
• Develop and maintain document management systems for surface protection.

Requirements

• Degree in aerospace, material science, chemistry, or a related field.
• Experience in surface/coatings technologies and corrosion protection.
• Aerospace industry experience preferred (qualification, certification, standardization).
• Knowledge of REACH regulations and Lean Manufacturing tools.
• Proficiency in MS Office and Google Workspace.
• Fluent in German and English.
• Ability to comply with company policies and procedures.
• Comprehensive health and retirement benefits package.
• Opportunity to impact aircraft safety and quality standards.
• Professional growth and development opportunities.
• Work with a dynamic team focused on safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

Why Apply Through Total Aviation Staffing?

Total Aviation Staffing connects aviation professionals with top-tier opportunities across the industry. Whether you’re looking for roles in:

• Commercial Aviation – Passenger airlines, cargo operations, and aircraft leasing
• Business & General Aviation – Corporate jets, charter services, and private aviation
• MRO & Aftermarket Services – Aircraft maintenance, repair, overhaul, and parts distribution
• Aerospace & Defense – Military aviation, space systems, and defense programs
• Aviation Technology & Manufacturing – OEMs, avionics, propulsion, and emerging technologies

Even if this role isn’t the perfect fit, applying with us gives you access to multiple career opportunities that may not be publicly advertised.

• Work with top companies in aviation and aerospace.
• Get priority access to multiple job openings.
• Receive expert career guidance from specialized aviation recruiters.

Apply today to take the next step in your aviation career.