Operations Manager, Production

About Mach Industries

Founded in 2023, Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology company focused on developing next-generation autonomous defense platforms. At the core of our mission is the commitment to delivering scalable, decentralized defense systems that enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its allies. With a workforce of approximately 350 employees, we operate with startup agility and ambition. Our vision is to redefine the future of warfare through cutting-edge manufacturing, innovation at speed, and unwavering focus on national security. We are dedicated to solving the next generation of warfare with lethal systems that deter kinetic conflict and protect global security.

About the role

The Operations Manager, Production is responsible for overseeing day-to-day manufacturing execution, production readiness, material flow, and operational performance. This role focuses on eliminating production bottlenecks, developing scalable processes, driving accountability through KPIs, and ensuring alignment between production plans and manufacturing output. The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader with experience scaling production in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and has a strong background in production control, operational excellence, continuous improvement, and cross-functional execution.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily production operations to achieve safety, quality, delivery, and cost objectives.
• Drive execution of production schedules and ensure manufacturing output aligns with program milestones and customer commitments.
• Partner closely with Supply Chain, Materials, Engineering, and Quality teams to ensure uninterrupted production flow.
• Identify and resolve production bottlenecks, material shortages, and process constraints impacting build schedules.
• Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs), work instructions, and operational controls to support scaling production.
• Establish and monitor production KPIs, dashboards, and performance metrics to drive accountability and operational visibility.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives utilizing Lean manufacturing principles, 5S, root cause analysis, and corrective action processes.
• Manage inventory accuracy, material availability, and production readiness across manufacturing operations.
• Support introduction of new products and engineering changes, ensuring smooth transition from prototype and pilot builds into production.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing Engineering to improve workflow, capacity planning, labor utilization, and production efficiency.
• Build, mentor, and develop high-performing production and operations teams.
• Drive a culture of safety, ownership, urgency, and operational excellence.
• Support ERP/MRP system utilization and data integrity to ensure accurate production planning and execution.

Required Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in manufacturing, production control, operations, supply chain, or production management.