Manufacturing Manager

Aviation Specialties Unlimited•Boise, ID

3d•Onsite

About The Position

At Aviation Specialties Unlimited (ASU), we support real-world aviation missions by designing and manufacturing Night Vision Imaging System (NVIS)-compatible aircraft lighting and filtration upgrades. Our products enable pilots and aircrew to safely and effectively operate with night vision goggles (NVGs) in low-light environments. These capabilities enhance situational awareness, improve safety, and help save lives during critical operations. We are a Boise-based, mission-driven small business. Our size is our advantage: leaders are close to the work, close to the team, and close to the decisions that matter. Your craftsmanship is visible, your ideas are heard, and your leadership directly impacts customers and results. The Manufacturing Manager is a hands-on production leader responsible for daily manufacturing execution, team accountability, and production performance. This role ensures FAA-PMA and TSO-approved parts are produced in compliance with regulatory requirements, company policies, and quality standards while meeting delivery, efficiency, and cost targets. This position is ideal for someone who prefers the manufacturing floor to the office and who takes ownership of schedules, metrics, and results. The Manufacturing Manager leads through presence, clear expectations, data-driven decision-making, and consistent follow-through while developing people and strengthening production discipline in a regulated aerospace environment. The Manufacturing Manager has authority to manage approved budgets within the scope of the role and to oversee personnel in the manufacturing department.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a related field (preferred)
Minimum of 3 years of experience leading hands-on manufacturing or production teams
Proven experience using metrics to drive production performance and accountability
Strong understanding of lean manufacturing principles and process improvement
Knowledge of machinery, tools, equipment maintenance, and calibration
Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, specifications, and work instructions
Experience balancing schedule, labor, quality, and cost in a production environment
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including root cause analysis
Effective verbal and written communication skills; familiarity with aviation terminology preferred
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (especially Excel) and ERP/MRP systems
Willingness to be present on the manufacturing floor and actively engaged in daily execution
Ability to sit or stand for extended periods and navigate production areas
Occasionally, limited travel required

Responsibilities

Ensure FAA-PMA and TSO approved parts are manufactured in accordance with TSO and PMA Quality Manuals, FAA regulations, and company policies.
Lead day-to-day manufacturing and kitting of non-PMA or TSO parts per company drawings, specifications, and work instructions
Track and maintain records for PMA and TSO manufactured parts; ensure timely production and compliance with documentation requirements.
Work shoulder-to-shoulder with technicians to remove obstacles, reinforce standards, and keep quality work moving
Ensure manufacturing activities follow approved drawings, work instructions, quality manuals, and company procedures
Manage the manufacturing team to deliver quality products that meet or exceed customer expectations
Own and actively manage production metrics that drive visibility and accountability, including on-time delivery to schedule, daily and weekly output vs. plan, labor efficiency and productivity, scrap, rework, and quality escapes
Build clear, simple reporting that communicates performance to the team and leadership
Use data to identify issues, set priorities, and drive corrective actions
Hold the team accountable for meeting commitments and continuously improving results
Optimize manufacturing processes to improve flow, efficiency, and cost control
Implement and sustain lean manufacturing principles and 5S practices
Develop, update, and maintain manufacturing SOPs and work instructions
Collaborate with Engineering and Quality to resolve production challenges and implement practical improvements
Train, coach, and develop manufacturing employees with an emphasis on cross-training, engagement, and reliability
Build a strong succession plan through mentorship and skill development
Oversee selection, maintenance, and calibration of manufacturing equipment and tooling
Develop and manage departmental budgets; monitor labor hours, material usage, and expenses
Ensure a safe, organized, and professional work environment in collaboration with the Safety Committee