Director - Manufacturing, Ops & Assembly Electric Propulsion

About the role

For our client, we are seeking a Director - Manufacturing, Ops & Assembly Electric Propulsion to join the team of a leader in the Aerospace & Defense space. This leader will be responsible for shaping manufacturing outcomes for a highly technical electric propulsion product line within a fast-paced aerospace environment. The role will build and scale the production organization, guide the transition from development into sustained rate production, and strengthen the interfaces between manufacturing, quality, supply chain, and test operations. It will also drive producibility, budget discipline, safety, and quality as the team grows. The ideal candidate will bring deep operational leadership experience, hands-on production ramp expertise, and the ability to lead through ambiguity while developing both salaried professionals and technicians.

Location: Seattle, WA - US based candidates only, no visa sponsorship available

Responsibilities

• Own the strategy and priorities for manufacturing outcomes of the electric propulsion thruster line.
• Build and define the production organization, including hiring and developing leadership.
• Lead the transition from development to sustained rate production, qualifying tooling and processes.
• Drive producibility into product design, managing the evolving bill of materials.
• Establish working interfaces with quality, supply chain, and test operations.
• Manage the manufacturing operating budget and capital plan for product delivery.
• Set and maintain a safety and quality culture as the team grows.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or a technical discipline.
• 12+ years in manufacturing, production, supply chain, or operations, including 5+ years in leadership roles.
• Hands-on experience transitioning products from development to rate production.
• Experience managing production-readiness gates and cycle-time evidence.
• Proven track record of building and developing teams during significant growth.
• Ability to manage both salaried professionals and technicians.
• Demonstrated ability to operate in ambiguous situations.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance options.
• Paid parental leave and short- and long-term disability coverage.
• 401(k) with a company match of up to 5%.
• Stock options for all regular employees working at least 20 hours/week.
• Up to four weeks of paid time off and 14 company-paid holidays.
• Education Support Program for ongoing learning opportunities.

Pay

$203,165 – $284,430 annually