Operations Manager – Defense Programs & Manufacturing at Systems Innovation Engineering

, , United States -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

15 Jun, 26

Salary

180000.0

Posted On

17 Mar, 26

Experience

10 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Program Management, Manufacturing Leadership, Production Planning, Schedule Management, Cost Control, DoD Contracts, ITAR Compliance, DFARS Compliance, AS9100, ISO Compliance, Lean Manufacturing, Continuous Improvement, Supply Chain Management, Configuration Control, KPI Tracking, Proposal Support

Industry

Defense & Space

Description

The Operations Manager – Defense Programs & Manufacturing is responsible for end‑to‑end execution of software and hardware programs in a classified and export‑controlled environment, overseeing production, integration, and delivery of defense systems to cost, schedule, performance and quality objectives. This role blends program management discipline with hands‑on manufacturing leadership to ensure that engineering designs are translated into repeatable, compliant, and efficient production. The Operations Manager serves as the primary interface between program management, the factory, supply chain, and quality to drive predictable performance across multiple DoD contracts and product lines. Duties and Responsibilities Lead day‑to‑day operations for assigned defense programs, including production planning, build and test execution, and delivery of systems and spares in accordance with contract requirements and internal baselines. Develop and maintain integrated master schedules and capacity plans that align manufacturing throughput, material availability, and engineering support with program milestones and customer delivery dates. Partner with Program Managers to manage cost, schedule, and program/technical performance (including EVMS where applicable), supporting internal and customer reviews (IBRs, PMRs, CDRs, FATs, DT/OT support). Oversee manufacturing operations for sensors, USVs, and related subsystems, ensuring compliance with applicable quality standards (e.g., AS9100, ISO) and defense requirements (ITAR, DFARS flow‑downs). Drive continuous improvement and lean initiatives to reduce cycle time, increase first‑pass yield, and improve on‑time delivery while maintaining configuration control and product pedigree. Work closely with Supply Chain to manage long‑lead items, obsolescence, supplier performance, and make/buy decisions that affect program execution and recurring cost. Coordinate with Engineering on new product introduction, manufacturing readiness, incorporation of engineering changes (ECPs), and resolution of non‑conformances (NRBs/MRBs). Establish, track, and act on key operational KPIs (on‑time delivery, throughput, labor efficiency, yield, rework/scrap, WIP, inventory accuracy) and present performance status to leadership. Support proposals and captures by developing manufacturing concepts, rough‑order‑of‑magnitude (ROM) estimates, BOEs, and executable production schedules for new defense opportunities. Lead, mentor, and develop production supervisors, planners, and technicians, fostering a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement aligned to mission and customer expectations. Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, or related technical field; advanced degree a plus. Significant experience (e.g., 7–10+ years) in defense/aerospace manufacturing or operations, with prior responsibility for program or project execution. Demonstrated success managing cost, schedule, and quality on DoD or other government contracts; familiarity with DoD acquisition processes and reviews is highly desired. Hands‑on experience with production planning, MRP/ERP systems, and shop‑floor execution for complex electro‑mechanical hardware (e.g., sensors, vehicles, or mission systems). Working knowledge of quality systems and configuration management in a regulated environment (AS9100/ISO, QMS, CM tools). Experience with lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, and root‑cause/corrective action methods. Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, as required by program needs. Strong communication and leadership skills, with a proven ability to collaborate across engineering, program management, supply chain, quality, and customer organizations. Clearance Requirements Some positions will require access to U.S. National Security information. Positions that require this access will be required to receive and maintain a U.S. government personnel security clearance (PCL). In order to qualify for this position, the candidate must be a US Citizen and either currently possess this National Security eligibility or be able to complete the investigation application process with a favorable determination and maintain that eligibility throughout their employment. To learn more about the security clearance process please access this link. EEOC & Know Your Rights Accelint companies are Equal Opportunity Employers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, status as a protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, and local law. We ensure that all employment decisions, including hiring, promotion, compensation, and other terms and conditions of employment, are based on merit, qualifications, and business needs. For more information about your rights, please review the "Know Your Rights" poster from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Know your Rights: English Spanish Pay Scales & Benefits The listed pay scale reflects the broad, minimum to maximum, pay scale for this position for the location for which it has been posted and is not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Other compensation considerations may include, but are not limited to, job responsibilities, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, or other applicable factors. Benefits include… Paid Time Off Paid Company Holidays Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance Optional HSA and FSA Base and Voluntary Life Insurance Short Term & Long-Term Disability Insurance 401k Matching Employee Assistance Program

Responsibilities

This role manages the end-to-end execution of defense software and hardware programs in classified environments, ensuring production, integration, and delivery meet cost, schedule, and quality objectives. Responsibilities include leading daily operations, developing integrated master schedules, partnering with Program Managers on performance tracking, and overseeing manufacturing compliance for defense systems.