Manufacturing Operations Manager, Blue Castings

Overview

Application close date:
Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the requisition is closed.

At Blue Origin, we envision millions of people living and working in space for the benefit of Earth. We’re working to develop reusable, safe, and low-cost space vehicles and systems within a culture of safety, collaboration, and inclusion. Join our team of problem solvers as we add new chapters to the history of spaceflight!

This role is part of Blue Origin Operations, which is comprised of Integrated Supply Chain, Test Operations, Safety, Quality, and Mission Assurance. This includes Manufacturing and Supply Chain support across all Blue Origin facilities. We are Innovators accelerating and perfecting world-class castings, paving the road to space. This position will require your commitment and detailed attention towards safe and repeatable operations lowering the cost of access to space and enabling Blue Origin’s vision of millions of people living and working in space to benefit Earth.

As part of a hardworking, passionate, and accomplished team, you will be responsible for leading the Manufacturing Operations team at Blue Castings in Arlington Washington. You will manage project execution, ensuring scrappy and cost-effective execution while maintaining a tight grip on all project deliverables needed to meet company objectives and delivery requirements.

This is a hands-on position that requires the ability to communicate the vision, strategy and tactical actions required to rapidly increase production rate and thruput while simultaneously leveraging cost-effective strategies to achieve key deliverables. This role will have the opportunity to build and scale a team and implement a robust management operating system driving business results.

You will report directly to the Director of Operations site leader.

We are looking for someone to apply their leadership skills, technical expertise, implementing our Blue Origin Production system, Lean manufacturing principles and demonstrating commitment to safety and quality to positively impact safe human spaceflight. Passion for our mission and vision is required!

• Lead the Operations teams
• Lead the development and implementation of operational strategies that support business goals
• Establish and mature weekly/monthly/quarterly reviews, KPIs/dashboards, status reporting, risk/issue management
• Analyze existing business processes and workflows to identify opportunities for improvement and efficiency
• Track performance metrics, and prepare regular reports for leadership
• Coordinate cross-functional projects and initiatives to drive operational excellence
• Proactively remove roadblocks and escalate risks to maintain and increase deliverable quality while improving overall performance.
• Develop and maintain standard operating procedures and best practices
• Collaborate with department heads to ensure alignment of operational activities with business objectives
• Oversee facility management and logistics operations as needed
• Identify and implement technological solutions to enhance operational performance
• Lead and develop a team of operations staff, providing mentorship and guidance
• Hire, onboard, coach, and mentor a team; set clear goals and cultivate a safety-first, high-ownership culture.

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, Operations Management, or related field
• 5+ years of experience in operations management or similar role with a record of process improvement and efficiency
• Proven track record of implementing process improvements and driving operational efficiency
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with data-driven decision-making abilities
• Excellent project management skills and ability to manage multiple priorities
• Experience with operational management software and ERP systems
• Knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma, or other process improvement methodologies
• Exceptional written and verbal communication; ability to build trust across levels and functions.

• Experience in aerospace, advanced manufacturing, or complex hardware production.
• Demonstrated change management experience
• New…