Production Manager

About the role

We are seeking a Production Manager with a background in scaling manufacturing operations to support our operations in Torrance, CA. This is an exciting role in an innovative, high-growth defense technology company. The Production Manager is responsible for overseeing daily manufacturing operations, ensuring production targets are met safely, efficiently, and within budget.

Responsibilities

• Plan, organize, and oversee daily production schedules to meet output, quality, and delivery targets
• Supervise, train, and develop production staff and shift supervisors
• Monitor production KPIs (output, efficiency, scrap/waste, downtime, safety, FPY) and implement corrective actions
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations
• Manage production budgets, control costs, and identify cost-saving opportunities
• Coordinate with Quality, Supply Chain, and Engineering to resolve operational issues
• Drive continuous improvement using Lean/Six Sigma methodologies
• Maintain accurate production records and prepare regular performance reports for senior management
• Troubleshoot equipment and process issues to minimize downtime
• Ensure proper staffing levels and manage shift scheduling
• Lead root-cause analysis for quality or production deviations
• Identify and resolve bottlenecks impacting throughput and delivery
• Lead or support continuous improvement initiatives across operations

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, Business, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• 4+ years of experience in manufacturing/production, with experience in a supervisory or managerial role
• Strong knowledge of production planning, lean manufacturing, and quality systems (ISO, Six Sigma a plus)
• Proven leadership and team management skills
• Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced, high-growth environment
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities
• Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems and Microsoft Office (Oracle is a plus)
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in aerospace, defense, or high-reliability industries
• Experience scaling production from prototype to volume
• Familiarity with regulatory environments (ITAR, AS9100, ISO)
• Certification in Lean, Six Sigma, or APICS (CPIM/CSCP)
• Experience with government or defense programs

Security Clearance

The ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government-issued security clearance is required. U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance.

Pay

For the state of California only, the range of starting pay for this role is: $127,700—$161,000 USD.