Production Director

What you'll do:

• Manage and lead a team of manufacturing engineers, manufacturing specialists, and technicians responsible for building critical assemblies for SPARC including high precision “heat shield” tile assemblies, RF antennas, instrumentation and diagnostic systems, optical systems, and electrical cabling
• Own process stabilization and continuous improvement of one of CFS’ main production lines from initial low-volume prototypes to full-scale production
• Lead the team to build in-house products safely, quickly, and reliably to achieve company milestones
• Project manage the builds of production hardware collaboratively with a diverse team of manufacturing engineers, technicians, supply chain, design engineers, EHS, quality, and external contractors. Organize project milestones and schedule to meet strategic targets
• Develop and oversee project plans and budget including capital equipment, cost management strategies, and resource allocation
• Communicate project status, risks, and resource requirements to the team & senior leadership
• Lead the team using Lean manufacturing principles, process flow maps, work instruction standardization, and nonconformance management
• Influence make vs. buy decisions and work with external vendors to augment internal capabilities

What we’re looking for:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering field is required
• 10+ years' experience as a manufacturing engineering director or senior manager in new manufacturing production launch / new facility startups
• Experience taking products from R&D into production, including developing manufacturing techniques and commissioning equipment
• Project management experience working with internal customers and external vendors to deliver manufactured hardware within specified timelines and budgets
• Experience with ERP/MES software for manufacturing processes and inventory control
• Leadership, team-building, and mentoring skills for both engineers and technicians
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and conflict resolution skills
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Excellent time management and organizational skills and experience establishing guidelines in these areas for others
• Strong sense of personal accountability regarding decision-making and supervising department teams
• Experience working in a high-level collaborative environment and promoting a teamwork mentality
• Attention to detail
• Flexible thinking, including the ability to pivot and try new approaches when faced with challenges
• Proficiency using presentation software to explain complex information to non-technical management personnel and other stakeholders
• Ability to work on multiple projects in various stages simultaneously

Bonus points for:

• 15+ years’ experience in leadership roles for new manufacturing production line launches
• Experience with building high precision electromechanical assemblies preferred
• Experience with the application of Lean and/or Six Sigma methodologies
• Experience developing ERP/MES/testing software in manufacturing start-up environments

Must-have Requirements:

• Ability to occasionally lift up to 50 lbs
• Perform activities such as typing, standing, stooping, climbing or sitting for extended periods of time
• Willingness to travel or work required nights/weekends/on-call occasionally
• Work in a facility that contains industrial hazards including heat, cold, noise, fumes, strong magnets, lead (Pb), high voltage, high current, pressure systems, and cryogenics