What are the responsibilities and job description for the Manufacturing Operations Manager position at PDS Defense?
PDS Defense is seeking a Manufacturing Operations Manager to work onsite In Industry CA
Location: Industry CA
Employment Type: Full-Time
Salary: up to $175,000 Annually
Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced Manufacturing Operations Manager to lead and oversee daily production operations within a fast-paced aerospace manufacturing environment. This role is responsible for ensuring production goals, quality standards, delivery schedules, and safety requirements are consistently achieved while driving continuous improvement initiatives across the manufacturing floor.
The ideal candidate will have a strong background in aerospace manufacturing operations, proven leadership experience, and the ability to optimize workflows, manage resources, and collaborate cross-functionally with engineering, quality, and supply chain teams to maximize operational efficiency.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage day-to-day manufacturing operations to ensure production targets, quality standards, and delivery commitments are achieved.
- Lead production teams, supervisors, and support staff to drive operational excellence and employee engagement.
- Monitor and improve manufacturing processes to maximize productivity, efficiency, and cost effectiveness.
- Ensure compliance with all safety regulations, company policies, and aerospace industry standards.
- Coordinate closely with Supply Chain, Engineering, Quality, and Program Management teams to address production challenges and meet customer requirements.
- Analyze production metrics, KPIs, and operational data to identify improvement opportunities and implement corrective actions.
- Develop staffing plans, resource allocation strategies, and workforce development initiatives.
- Lead continuous improvement efforts utilizing Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, or similar methodologies.
- Support new product introductions, manufacturing transitions, and process improvement projects.
- Manage equipment utilization, capacity planning, and facility resources to support business growth.
- Drive a culture of accountability, safety, quality, and continuous improvement throughout the organization.
- Ensure adherence to aerospace quality management systems and regulatory requirements.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
- 8 years of manufacturing leadership experience with at least 3 years in a management role.
- Direct experience working in an aerospace manufacturing environment is required.
- Strong understanding of manufacturing operations, production planning, and process optimization.
- Experience managing large production teams and multiple functional areas.
- Knowledge of aerospace quality standards, production controls, and regulatory requirements.
- Proven ability to drive operational improvements and meet production deadlines.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
- Excellent communication, leadership, and team-building abilities.
- Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems and manufacturing performance metrics.
Key Competencies
- Manufacturing Operations Leadership
- Aerospace Production Management
- Lean Manufacturing & Continuous Improvement
- Production Planning & Scheduling
- Workforce Development
- Quality & Regulatory Compliance
- Supply Chain Collaboration
- Process Optimization
- Strategic Planning
- Safety Management
If you are a results-driven manufacturing leader with aerospace experience and a passion for operational excellence, we encourage you to apply.