Head of Production, Rocket Motor Systems

About the role

The Head of Production is a pivotal role within Anduril Industries' Rocket Motor Systems (RMS) division. Based at our McHenry, Mississippi facility, this position is responsible for leading the transition from New Product Introduction (NPI) to sustained high-rate manufacturing, ensuring operational excellence, scalability, and strict adherence to rigorous quality and safety standards.

Responsibilities

• Lead End-to-End Production & Scale RMS: Own all production outcomes for Rocket Motor Systems, guiding the full lifecycle from New Product Introduction (NPI) to high-volume manufacturing.
• Architect, build, and optimize critical functions including Planning, Supply Chain, Manufacturing Engineering, Operations, and Quality to support rapid growth and complex RMS operations.
• Drive high-rate production, implementing the systems, processes, and infrastructure necessary to achieve ambitious delivery targets for current and future contracts.
• Lead, mentor, and expand a high-performing team across multiple sites, fostering a culture of ownership and excellence.
• Serve as Site Leader for McHenry, MS: Be the primary leader for our McHenry facility, overseeing all site operations, resources, and strategic development.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with local stakeholders, community partners, and county officials.
• Strategize & Execute Facilities Growth: Lead the expansion of existing production facilities and the development of new sites, from initial planning and permitting to construction and operational readiness.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to develop and execute long-term growth strategies for RMS, ensuring infrastructure keeps pace with demand.
• Champion Operational Excellence & Innovation: Develop and refine manufacturing processes and operational playbooks to ensure efficient, scalable, and repeatable production.
• Drive the adoption of advanced manufacturing technologies (PLM, ERP, MES, QMS) for optimized efficiency and data-driven decision-making.
• Establish and manage to critical KPIs for quality, delivery, financial performance, and safety, continuously driving improvement.
• Maintain a strong physical presence on the production floor at McHenry, engaging directly with teams to ensure operational excellence and foster a culture of safety and collaboration.
• Manage significant production budgets and drive financial discipline across all activities to support long-term business growth.

Requirements

• 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in a high-volume manufacturing/production environment within a highly technical, hardware-focused industry (e.g., aerospace, defense, automotive, energy).
• Proven track record of architecting, building, and scaling production operations from NPI to sustained high-rate manufacturing (e.g., 1000s of units/year).
• Experience establishing new facilities or significantly expanding existing ones is highly valued.
• Direct, hands-on leadership and success across end-to-end supply chain, procurement, and warehousing functions critical for scaled manufacturing.
• Experience managing and inspiring large, diverse teams across various functions (e.g., quality, supply chain, manufacturing engineering, operations) and successfully leading a significant production site.
• A leader who thrives on the production floor, with the ability to be on-site at the McHenry, MS facility five days a week to provide direct, hands-on leadership and support.
• Ability to develop a long-term strategic vision for production while also diving into tactical execution to overcome immediate challenges.
• Exceptional collaborator, proven to partner effectively with engineering, program management, and other technical teams to optimize manufacturing processes for complex hardware systems.
• Skilled in building and maintaining positive relationships with local stakeholders, and deep understanding of safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements (especially for energetics/propulsion).
• Strong analytical skills with a data-driven approach to continuous improvement and operational excellence.
• Familiarity with the manufacturing of energetics or propulsion systems is a significant advantage.
• Bachelor of Science or higher degree in a technical discipline (Engineering, Manufacturing, Supply Chain) preferred; equivalent practical experience with a proven track record will be considered.
• Security Clearance: Eligible to obtain and maintain an active U.S. Secret security clearance.

Benefits

Anduril offers a highly competitive salary range of $225,000—$397,000 USD, along with a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Comprehensive health, recovery, and wellness programs
• Top-tier benefits for full-time employees
• Highly competitive equity grants

For more information about our benefits, please explore our benefits page.