VP of Operations — Aerospace & Defense Manufacturing (Machining, Composites & Complex Assembly) — $220k to $275k Base + Bonus + Equity — Santa Ana, CA / Onsite — Tier 1 Aerospace Supplier

Job Details

Lead and optimize all operations across machining, composites, and complex assembly, driving on-time, on-budget delivery while positioning the company for scalable, profitable growth.

Own daily operations at the Santa Ana site — capacity planning, production scheduling, and resource allocation.

Drive efficiency and cost competitiveness through Lean, Six Sigma, and advanced manufacturing.

Maintain quality and compliance with AS9100, ITAR, and DoD/MIL requirements, and serve as executive point of contact for key customers.

Lead modernization — digital manufacturing, automation, ERP/MES optimization — and evaluate make/buy strategy for supply chain resilience.

Build, mentor, and retain the operations leadership team; drive accountability through KPIs and develop future leaders.

Looking for:

• BS in Engineering, Manufacturing, or Operations Management; MBA or advanced degree preferred
• Director-level (or above) management in a relevant manufacturing environment; machine shop experience essential
• Proven low-volume, high-mix production leadership
• Deep knowledge of AS9100, ITAR, and DoD/MIL requirements
• Expertise in Lean/Six Sigma (A3, Takt, Kanban, 5 Whys, poka-yoke, VSM, line balancing); Green Belt a plus
• Experience in any of the following areas welcomed:
• Materials management, sourcing, inventory, and demand-flow techniques
• Build-to-print and custom systems/integration work
• Production automation
• Power generation or nuclear manufacturing
• MRP/Capacity Planning certification (APICS)

About the Role

Aerospace and defense manufacturer specializing in precision machining, composites, and complex assemblies, with a second operation in nearby Long Beach. Flight hardware has supported DoD, space, and commercial platforms for decades, and much of it has stayed on our customers' programs since day one. We run a low-volume, high-mix build-to-print model under AS9100 and ITAR, making us one of the more capable independent suppliers in the region.

Why Join Us?

• Base salary $220k–$280k + bonus + Equity
• Medical, dental, vision, matching 401(k), and other confirmed benefits
• Generous PTO, sick leave, and paid holidays
• Direct report to the President and a seat on the executive leadership team
• Long-standing customer programs and a stable, decades-deep backlog