Deputy Site Lead

FMS Aerospace • Huntsville, AL

1d

About The Position

Are you a proven aerospace leader with a passion for operational excellence, engineering innovation, and team development? We are seeking a highly motivated Deputy Site Leader to serve as the trusted second-in-command for a growing aerospace and defense operation. In this critical leadership position, you will partner directly with the Senior Vice President/General Manager to oversee site operations, drive strategic initiatives, and ensure the successful execution of engineering, manufacturing, and customer programs. This role offers a unique opportunity to influence business performance, develop high-performing teams, and prepare for future executive leadership responsibilities.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, Manufacturing, or a related technical field (or equivalent experience).
• 10+ years of progressive leadership experience within aerospace, defense, engineering, manufacturing, flight test, or related technical environments.
• Demonstrated success leading cross-functional organizations and complex customer programs.
• Strong understanding of: Engineering and product development, Aerospace operations, Program management systems and principles, Industrial manufacturing, or high-mix/low-volume manufacturing operations, Financial and resource planning, Engineering design.
• Exceptional communication, relationship-building, and decision-making skills.
• Must be U.S. citizen
• Must currently possess (or be able to obtain) a DoD security clearance (Secret level minimum)

Nice To Haves

• Master's Degree (MBA or Engineering discipline).
• Aerospace and Defense industry experience.
• Flight test operations experience.
• Experience with high-mix, low-volume manufacturing environments.
• Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma leadership experience.

Responsibilities

• Partner with the Site Leader to manage day-to-day operations across the facility.
• Align engineering, manufacturing, electrical design, program management, and support functions toward common business objectives.
• Drive operational performance, efficiency, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ensure projects are delivered on schedule, within budget, and to customer expectations.
• Provide leadership and oversight across: Mechanical and product design, Electrical design and controls, Component manufacturing, Engineering support services.
• Promote innovation, technical excellence, and sound engineering practices.
• Resolve complex technical and operational challenges affecting customer programs.
• Collaborate with Program Managers to ensure successful execution of customer contracts.
• Monitor resource allocation, project milestones, risks, and financial performance.
• Participate in customer reviews and executive-level communications.
• Support proposal development, customer visits, and business growth initiatives.
• Lead efforts to enhance safety, quality, productivity, and cost performance.
• Champion Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement principles.
• Optimize production capacity and operational effectiveness.
• Coach, mentor, and develop managers and technical leaders.
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, innovation, and employee engagement.
• Support succession planning, talent development, workforce planning, and organizational growth.
• Contribute to the development and execution of site strategy.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and drive corrective actions when necessary.
• Lead strategic initiatives and special projects that support long-term business growth.

Benefits

• Industry-competitive compensation package
• Company performance-based bonus plan
• Equity stock-based compensation package
• Employer-funded comprehensive health, vision, and dental insurance for employees and dependents
• 401k with company match
• PTO & holiday pay
• Employer-funded life and disability insurance coverages

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior