Pilot Production Manager

Sila•Alameda, CA

2d•$165,000 - $208,000•Onsite

About The Position

We are Sila, a next-generation battery materials company. Our mission is to power the world’s transition to clean energy. To create this future, our team is building a better lithium-ion battery from the inside out today. We engineer and manufacture ground-breaking battery materials that significantly increase the energy density of batteries, while reducing their size and weight. The result? Smaller more powerful batteries that can unlock innovation in consumer devices and accelerate the mass adoption of electric cars to eliminate our dependence on fossil fuels. We're tackling one of the biggest challenges of our time every day, and together we're redefining what's possible. Are you ready to be a part of a team committed to changing the world? As a Pilot Production Manager you will be responsible for the execution, and reporting of manufacturing operations of our innovative Silicon Anode production lines. You will drive operational improvements and support the growth of the people, processes, and systems at the facility, ensuring on time delivery of Sila’s material to high profile customers. The role will be based in Alameda, CA.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a technical discipline (engineering preferred) or equivalent direct operations leadership experience.
Minimum 7 years of industrial work experience (including management of non-exempt personnel).
Strong background in chemical or materials manufacturing, with a solid grasp of industrial manufacturing operations.
Deep understanding of Lean Manufacturing principles and a proven track record of applying them to production processes.
Strong mentoring, coaching, and training skills focused on empowering individuals, developing talent, and driving safe operating behaviors.
Hands-on, solution-oriented approach to diagnosing issues and resolving operational challenges directly on the line.
Strong communication, listening, and influencing abilities, with strong initiative in leading meetings and driving organizational alignment.

Responsibilities

Lead and optimize Alameda manufacturing operations, driving discipline, and strategic initiatives.
Directly oversee projects like Lean implementation and continuous improvement with material flow to align with company goals.
Act as the plant asset owner, managing MOC processes and partnering with engineering and maintenance to maximize equipment reliability and rapid incident recovery.
Build a safe, high-performing team through structured hiring, training, transparent feedback, and a strong culture of safety, quality, and empowerment.
Streamline workstreams, troubleshooting methodologies, and operational systems to establish an efficient, scalable, and highly effective production environment.
Partner with supply planning to further develop production planning systems.
Collaborate with Finance to minimize manufacturing variances, report COGS, and monitor/report out on inventory levels.
Set clear expectations, allocate responsibilities, track progress against key metrics, and support direct reports in navigating operational roadblocks.