Production Lead, Sr

Production Team Sr. Lead

Aerovironment, Inc. is seeking a skilled and motivated Production Team Sr. Lead to join our (Small Unmanned Aerial Systems (sUAS) (Loitering Munition Systems (LMS)) manufacturing product lines. As a Production Team Sr. Lead, you will be responsible for overseeing the efficient operation of the manufacturing work cell, ensuring the production targets are met, and maintaining the highest level of quality standards.

Your leadership skills, technical expertise, and ability to drive continuous improvement will play a crucial role in the success of our manufacturing operations.

Position Responsibilities:

• Lead a team of manufacturing technicians and operators within the assigned work cell, providing guidance, training, and supervision to ensure the achievement of 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 the manufacturing processes, equipment, and product specifications, providing technical support and troubleshooting assistance when required.
• 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

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills & Experience):

• 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
• Lead a team of manufacturing technicians and operators within the assigned work cell, providing guidance, training, and supervision to ensure the achievement of 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 the manufacturing processes, equipment, and product specifications, providing technical support and troubleshooting assistance when required.
• 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 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
• Is committed to learning from mistakes and driven to improve and enhance…