Responsibilities

• Manufacturing Program Leadership:
• Manage high-priority production lines, ensuring synchronization of workflows and quality assurance across mission-critical systems.
• Drive program execution, aligning manufacturing schedules, budgets, and milestones with overall program requirements.
• Critical Path Management:
• Identify and oversee key manufacturing processes and bottlenecks, ensuring on-time delivery of essential components and systems.
• Develop risk mitigation strategies and streamline production workflows for optimal efficiency.
• Cross-Team Collaboration:
• Collaborate closely with design engineers, systems integrators, and production teams to ensure seamless integration of manufactured components.
• Coordinate communication between suppliers, internal stakeholders, and customers to resolve production challenges and maintain alignment.
• Process Improvement:
• Implement Lean Six Sigma and other process improvement methodologies to reduce defects, improve efficiency, and optimize manufacturing throughput.
• Compliance and Quality Assurance:
• Ensure manufacturing efforts adhere to DoD standards, including MIL-STD specifications and ISO quality standards.
• Develop and enforce quality control procedures to support aerospace-grade performance and reliability requirements.
• Program Reporting and Documentation:
• Provide regular updates to stakeholders, including cost-performance metrics, risk assessments, and production status reports.
• Document manufacturing procedures, lessons learned, and key program deliverables for long-term sustainment planning.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related technical field
• 12+ years of experience in manufacturing program management or production leadership in aerospace or defense sectors.
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes related to aerospace systems, including avionics, propulsion systems, or stealth technologies.
• Proven ability to manage critical-path components and workflows while balancing cost, schedule, and quality requirements.
• Familiarity with defense manufacturing standards, including MIL-STD-810 (environmental testing) or MIL-HDBK-516C (airworthiness certification).
• Must possess an active Top Secret clearance with eligibility for SCI.

• 15+ years of experience in manufacturing program management or production leadership in aerospace or defense sectors.
• Certifications relevant to advanced manufacturing and program management:
• PMP (Project Management Professional): Demonstrates expertise in managing aerospace or defense programs.
• Lean Six Sigma Certification: Supports effective process improvement and efficiency in manufacturing workflows.
• ASQ Certified Quality Engineer (CQE): Validates expertise in quality assurance practices for aerospace manufacturing.
• Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE): Reflects proficiency in advanced manufacturing systems and processes.
• Certified Defense Production Manager: Expertise in managing production workflows and defense system delivery.
• CompTIA Security+ or CISSP: Useful for secure supply chain implementation and cybersecurity considerations.
• Familiarity with advanced aerospace technologies and production methods, including additive manufacturing (3D printing), precision machining, and composite materials.
• Understanding of program management tools (e.g., MS Project, Jira, Earned Value Management Systems) for tracking manufacturing schedules and risks.