Production Manager

Our client is a leading designer and manufacturer of systems for marine and underwater applications. Their products are engineered for reliability and performance in challenging environments, with a strong focus on quality, innovation, and precision. They operate in a low-volume, high-mix manufacturing environment where adaptability and problem-solving are key to success.

Position Overview

We are seeking a hands-on Production Manager to lead the electro-mechanical assembly team and ensure timely, high-quality production of our subsea thrusters and related systems. This role requires a proactive leader who can balance day-to-day operations with continuous improvement initiatives. The ideal candidate will bring strong leadership, technical expertise, and organizational skills to a dynamic environment where many products are prototypes or first-of-a-kind builds.

Key Responsibilities

Team Leadership & Management

• Supervise, mentor, and develop a team of ~7 assemblers and technicians.
• Plan, assign, and manage daily workloads to meet production schedules and delivery targets.
• Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
• Conduct regular performance check-ins and support employee development.

Production Planning & Execution

• Coordinate production priorities based on customer demand, project timelines, and resource availability.
• Ensure efficient flow of materials, tools, and documentation through all stages of assembly and test.
• Monitor and report on production metrics such as throughput, yield, and on-time delivery.

Process Development & Documentation

• Create and maintain detailed production work instructions from engineering drawings, schematics, and models.
• Develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) for assembly, integration, and testing.
• Driveprocess improvements to enhance efficiency, quality, and repeatability.

Technical Problem Solving

• Support and guide the team in troubleshooting electro-mechanical, hydraulic, and control system issues.
• Collaborate closely with Engineering to resolve design and manufacturability challenges.
• Lead root cause analysis and implement corrective/preventive actions for recurring issues.

Quality & Safety

• Uphold high standards for workmanship, safety, and documentation.
• Ensure compliance with internal quality procedures and customer requirements.
• Promote a safe and organized work environment through regular audits and training.

Required Skills & Experience

• 5 years of experience in production management or manufacturing supervision, ideally in low-volume, high-mix or prototype environments.
• Strong background in electro-mechanical assembly, including wiring, soldering, mechanical fit-up, and testing.
• Proven leadership experience with the ability to motivate, coach, and hold team members accountable.
• Excellent organizational and multitasking skills to manage diverse products and priorities simultaneously.
• Proficiency with computer tools, including ERP/MRP systems, Microsoft Office, and document control platforms.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, schematics, and BOMs.
• Experience with production planning, scheduling, and workflow optimization.
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting capabilities with a hands-on approach.
• Clear, professional communication skills for collaboration across departments (Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, etc.).

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge or experience in the subsea, marine, or defense industry.
• Experience with ISO 9001 or similar quality management systems.
• Exposure to lean manufacturing principles or continuous improvement initiatives.
• Familiarity with testing and validation of electro-mechanical systems.
• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, or related technical discipline (or equivalent experience).

You should be proficient in:

• IPC-A-610
• Leadership / People Management
• Bachelor's Degree
• Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering
• Electrical Schematics
• Mechanical Troubleshooting Skills
• Soldering
• PCB Components (Printed Circuit Board Components)
• IPC Joint Industry Standard (IPC-J-STD)
• Electrical Systems Diagnostics & Repair
• Manufacturing Instruction (MI)
• Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
• Supervisory Experience
• Electrical Troubleshooting
• Production Optimization
• Quality Control Experience
• Mechanical Testing
• Electrical / Electronic Systems
• Lean Manufacturing Principles
• Coaching and Mentoring Experience
• Mechanical Assembly Skills
• AS9100 Experience
• Root Cause Analysis
• Blueprint Reading

Machines & technologies you'll use:

• Flexible Circuits & Interconnects
• ERP Software
• Servo Motors