Production Operations Manager

About the role

Firestorm Labs is seeking a Production Operations Manager to join our growing team in San Diego. You will play a critical leadership role responsible for overseeing day-to-day manufacturing operations and ensuring our production runs efficiently, safely, and in full alignment with quality and delivery expectations.

Responsibilities

• Oversight of daily manufacturing operations, including production scheduling, resource allocation, and workflow management to meet delivery targets.
• Lead and manage complex build processes that incorporate integrated hardware and software steps, ensuring procedures are followed, documented, and continuously improved.
• Partner with Engineering, Quality, and Supply Chain teams to resolve technical issues, drive corrective actions, and support new product introductions.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and use data to identify trends, address gaps, and report on operational performance to senior leadership.
• Build and develop a high-performing team by setting clear expectations, providing coaching, and fostering a respectful and inclusive workplace culture.
• Ensure compliance with AS9100 and other applicable aerospace quality and regulatory standards and enforce all safety policies to maintain a safe working environment.
• Support and reinforce a culture of quality by contributing to the implementation and sustainment of 5S, Lean, and continuous improvement methodologies across the production floor.
• Partner with supply chain and procurement teams to support inventory management processes, helping maintain material availability and minimize disruptions to production.
• Exhibit problem-solving, communication, and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Lead cross-functional teams and collaborate effectively across Engineering, Quality, and Supply Chain departments.
• Communicate and present technical data and analysis to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Business, or a related field; equivalent experience will be considered.
• U.S. Citizenship required due to ITAR regulations, with the ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance.
• 5+ years of operations or manufacturing management experience, preferably in aerospace, defense, or a similarly regulated industry.
• Experience managing complex build processes involving both hardware and software components.
• Experience with Continuous Improvement (CI) methodologies and tools.
• Experience interfacing with supply chain and procurement functions to maintain material flow and support production demands.
• Experience with Microsoft Office 365 (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint).

Qualifications

• Technical aptitude related to drone or UAV systems, including familiarity with propulsion, avionics, or airframe assembly sufficient to lead and support a skilled production team.
• Experience with QMS AS9100.
• Experience with ERP systems (e.g., Costpoint) and production management tools.
• Experience with Lean, Six Sigma, ACE, CORE, 5S or equivalent CI tools and methodologies.
• Prior experience in an early-stage, high-growth tech or hardware startup environment.
• Ability to influence change and drive operational improvements as business needs and production volumes scale.
• Experience managing complex, fast-paced operations in a dynamic environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, or a related discipline.
• Experience with QMS AS9100.
• Experience with ERP systems (e.g., Costpoint) and production management tools.
• Experience with Lean, Six Sigma, ACE, CORE, 5S or equivalent CI tools and methodologies.
• Prior experience in an early-stage, high-growth tech or hardware startup environment.
• Ability to influence change and drive operational improvements as business needs and production volumes scale.
• Experience managing complex, fast-paced operations in a dynamic environment.

Benefits & Perks

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans.
• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan.
• Equity grants for new hires.
• Unlimited PTO.
• Generous Parental Leave.
• Lifestyle Spending Account.
• Free mental health resources 24/7.
• Legal and financial support services.