Manufacturing Operations Manager
d.light
Company Overview
d.light
San Francisco, CA, United States
2007
Employee count is not publicly disclosed, and revenue figures for 2023 or later are not available; however, d.light has raised over $20 million in early venture capital and participated in multiple funding rounds, including a $30 million Series D (source: sfgate.com).
What They Do
d.light is a for-profit social enterprise and certified B Corporation that specializes in solar-powered solutions aimed at off-grid and underserved communities. The company focuses on providing affordable and durable solar lighting, home systems, inverters, and appliances, with a strong emphasis on human-centered design. Their products include solar home systems, portable solar lanterns, and PayGo financing models, which allow customers to pay for their energy solutions in manageable daily installments of 20-50 US cents (source: dlight.com). The technology is designed to last, featuring LiFePO4 batteries that can endure over 2000 cycles, and polycrystalline solar panels ranging from 9W to 40W, making them suitable for various applications in regions lacking reliable electricity (source: dlight.com). By targeting low-income families, small businesses, health centers, and schools, d.light aims to improve the quality of life for millions while promoting sustainable energy practices.
Projects & Track Record
Since its inception, d.light has successfully distributed over 25 million solar products across 62 countries, significantly impacting the lives of approximately 173 million people. Notable projects include installations at the Gora Primary Health Care Center in Plateau State, Nigeria, where their iMAX10 inverters have facilitated critical medical interventions during power outages. Additionally, health centers in Abia State have utilized d.light's technology for phototherapy treatments (source: techxlab.org). Current efforts are focused on scaling PayGo solar home systems in regions like Mt. Kenya's Kiharu area, where they provide essential lighting and educational support, as well as in urban settings like Nairobi for business lighting solutions (source: dlight.com). The company has established partnerships with local distributors and organizations such as Acumen to enhance its reach and effectiveness in delivering solar solutions to those in need.
Recent Developments
In recent years, d.light has gained recognition for its impactful solar solutions, highlighted in the Earthshot Prize video released on October 16, 2024, which showcased how their products have powered 175 million lives across Africa and helped offset 38 million tonnes of carbon emissions (source: youtube.com). The company has also celebrated the milestone of selling 25 million products, contributing to its ambitious goal of reaching 1 billion lives by 2030 (source: techxlab.org). While there have been no major contracts or acquisitions reported for 2023-2025, d.light continues to build on its legacy of innovation and social impact, having previously won the Global LEAP Award in 2016 for its energy-efficient off-grid appliances.
Working There
d.light offers a variety of roles that likely include positions in engineering, sales, customer support, and supply chain management, reflecting its diverse operational needs across global markets. The company recruits talent for its headquarters in San Francisco as well as for field offices in Kenya, India, and China, emphasizing community engagement by hiring local sales agents (source: dlight.com). The culture at d.light is centered around human-centered design and social impact, with a commitment to empowering local communities and ensuring product durability in extreme conditions. While specific employee benefits are not detailed, the company's innovative PayGo financing models suggest a focus on aligning employee interests with customer needs and sustainable practices (source: thecharlesbronfmanprize.org).
Last updated on 2026-02-23 | Report an issue
Job Description
The Operations Manager is responsible for leading and managing product assembly lines, refurbishment operations, and value-added production activities in Kenya. The role ensures efficient, cost-effective, and high-quality production through strong operational governance, workforce leadership, process optimization, and cross-functional collaboration. The position plays a critical role in driving productivity, quality compliance, and continuous improvement across manufacturing and refurbishment operations.
Key Roles & Responsibilities
1. Assembly Line & Production Operations Management
- Lead and manage end-to-end product assembly line operations, refurbishment processes, and value-added (VA) production activities.
- Develop production plans and ensure adherence to daily, weekly, and monthly output targets.
- Monitor assembly line efficiency, cycle time, and productivity metrics.
- Ensure smooth workflow, line balancing, and capacity optimization.
- Drive improvements in throughput, yield, and operational efficiency.
- Ensure proper implementation of production layouts, material flow, and workstation ergonomics.
2. Team Leadership & Workforce Management
- Lead, train, and supervise shop floor teams to ensure high performance and accountability.
- Plan manpower allocation based on production demand and operational priorities.
- Conduct performance reviews, coaching, and skill development programs.
- Drive employee engagement, motivation, and retention.
- Foster a culture of accountability, discipline, and continuous improvement.
3. Inventory & Material Management
- Manage shop floor inventory, WIP control, and stock movement.
- Coordinate with the Supply Chain to maintain optimal inventory levels.
- Ensure accurate stock reconciliation and traceability.
- Prevent material shortages, overstocking, and obsolescence risks.
4. Process Governance & Optimization
- Develop, implement, and enforce Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and work instructions.
- Identify bottlenecks and drive process improvements using Lean and Six Sigma methodologies.
- Standardize best practices across assembly and refurbishment operations.
- Implement automation and digital tools where applicable.
5. Cost Management & Productivity Improvement
- Drive cost optimization initiatives across assembly, refurbishment, and VA operations.
- Monitor operational cost performance and implement efficiency improvement plans.
- Improve labour productivity, resource utilization, and material efficiency.
6. Continuous Improvement & Operational Excellence
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives across production and refurbishment activities.
- Develop and implement corrective and preventive action plans.
- Promote innovation and best practice sharing.
- Benchmark industry standards and implement relevant improvements.
7. Reporting & Data Analytics
- Prepare and maintain operational dashboards, production reports, and performance metrics.
- Analyze data trends to support strategic decision-making.
- Provide regular updates to senior management on performance, risks, and improvement plans.
8. Risk Management & Problem Resolution
- Identify operational risks and develop mitigation strategies.
- Lead resolution of production disruptions and escalation management.
- Develop contingency planning for supply chain, manpower, and operational challenges.
9. Health, Safety & Environmental Compliance
- Ensure adherence to workplace health, safety, and environmental regulations.
- Conduct safety audits, risk assessments, and safety training programs.
- Promote a strong safety culture across shop floor operations.
Requirements
Desired Skills & Experience
Education
- Bachelor's Degree or Higher National Diploma in Engineering, Operations Management, Manufacturing, or related field.
Experience
- 3~5 years of experience in manufacturing, assembly line operations, refurbishment, or production management.
- Experience in consumer electronics, appliances, solar products, or related industries is preferred.
- Experience in managing multi-product assembly or refurbishment operations is an advantage.
Technical & Functional Skills
- Strong knowledge of assembly line operations and manufacturing processes.
- Experience in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or Continuous Improvement methodologies.
- Strong understanding of production planning, inventory control, and quality management systems.
- Experience with ERP systems, Jira, or production tracking tools.
Behavioral Competencies
- Strong leadership and people management skills.
- High ownership, accountability, and execution capability.
- Ability to perform in fast-paced and dynamic environments.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
- Strong organizational and time management capability.
- Passion for social enterprise, sustainability, and people development.
- Proven ability to drive cross-functional change initiatives.
Benefits
- Competitive Remuneration
- Medical Cover
- Pension Scheme
Apply now
Job expired?Please let d.light know you found this job on Rejobs. This will help us grow and get more people to work on renewable energy!
Discover how you’re connected
View connectionsSee your contacts at d.light on LinkedIn to leverage your network in applying for this position.
About the role
February 20, 2026
Full Time
Company
- Nairobi, Kenya
3-5 years
UTC+03:00
Get Job Alerts
Get job alerts for opportunities in Nairobi, Kenya
Join Talent Pool
Let top clean energy employers find you
