Production Team Senior Lead

About the Role

AeroVironment, Inc. is seeking a skilled and motivated Production Team Sr. Lead to join our Small Unmanned Aerial Systems (sUAS) and Loitering Munition Systems (LMS) manufacturing product lines. This role involves overseeing the efficient operation of the manufacturing work cell, ensuring production targets are met, and maintaining high quality standards.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of manufacturing technicians and operators, providing guidance, training, and supervision to achieve production goals and quality targets.
• Plan, organize, and prioritize daily work schedules to optimize productivity and meet customer demand.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineering, supply chain, and quality assurance, to ensure seamless coordination and efficient manufacturing processes.
• Monitor and analyze production metrics, identify bottlenecks or inefficiencies, and implement process improvements to enhance productivity and reduce costs.
• Ensure compliance with safety protocols, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and regulatory requirements to maintain a safe and compliant work environment.
• Perform regular inspections and audits to identify equipment issues or maintenance needs and coordinate with maintenance personnel to address them promptly.
• Act as a subject matter expert in manufacturing processes, equipment, and product specifications, providing technical support and troubleshooting assistance.
• Maintain accurate documentation of production activities, including production reports, work instructions, and quality records.
• Support the implementation of lean manufacturing principles and participate in continuous improvement initiatives to optimize workflow and eliminate waste.
• Foster a culture of teamwork, collaboration, and employee engagement, promoting a positive work environment and motivating the team to achieve operational excellence.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High School diploma or GED equivalent.
• Minimum of 6+ years of experience in a manufacturing or production environment in either electronics or electro-mechanical assembly and test, or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

Qualifications & Desired Competencies

• Experience working with Oracle ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems is highly desired.
• Lean Six Sigma certification or familiarity with lean manufacturing principles.
• Knowledge of aerospace industry regulations and quality management systems (e.g., AS9100, ISO 9001).
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Flexibility to adapt to shifting priorities and business needs.
• Ability to thrive in a collaborative team environment while also being self-directed and proactive.
• Passion for unmanned systems and aerospace technology.
• Able to excel in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment where small teams share a broad variety of duties.
• Displays strong initiative and drive to accomplish goals and meet company objectives.
• Takes ownership and responsibility for current and past work products.
• Committed to learning from mistakes and driven to improve performance of oneself, others, and the company.
• Focuses on teamwork and puts the success of the team above one's own interests.

Training & Travel

This position requires initial travel to Simi Valley, CA for training. Travel, lodging, meals, and ground transportation will be provided. Occasionally may be required to travel within the Continental U.S.

Physical Demands

• Ability to work in a factory or office environment (constant).
• Required to sit and stand for long periods; talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer and telephone keyboard (frequent).

Special Requirements

• U.S. Citizenship required.
• This position requires access to information subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under ITAR and EAR definitions.

Pay

The salary range for this role is $24 - $36 per hour. AeroVironment considers several factors when extending an offer, including location, role and responsibilities, work experience, education/training, and key skills.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 401K with company matching.
• 9/80 work schedule.
• Paid holiday shutdown.

About AV

AeroVironment (AV) is the premier autonomous systems company in the U.S., delivering breakthrough capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber. Founded by legendary innovator Dr. Paul MacCready, AV has spent over 50 years pushing the boundaries of what unmanned systems can do. Our heritage includes seven platforms in the Smithsonian, but we’re focused on building what’s next. AV hires the curious, the relentless, and the mission-obsessed to develop technology that redefines what’s possible in defense and beyond.