Production Operations Manager

Anduril Industries • Santa Ana, CA

4d • Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a highly experienced and hands-on Production Operations Manager to lead the stand-up and ongoing operations of our advanced manufacturing facility in Santa Ana, CA. This is a foundational role where you will build and manage the entire production system, from team formation to day-to-day execution, ensuring the rapid and high-quality delivery of our groundbreaking maritime products. You will oversee a diverse range of processes including CNC machining, waterjet/plasma/oxy-fuel cutting, plate rolling, welding, systems integration, kitting, and general fabrication. This role is instrumental in translating cutting-edge R&D into scalable, high-volume production.

Requirements

• 10-15+ years of progressive experience in a manufacturing environment.
• 5+ years in a leadership, management, or supervisor role overseeing diverse production teams.
• Proven experience establishing and standing up manufacturing facilities or significant production lines.
• Demonstrated experience managing complex manufacturing processes including CNC machining, cutting (waterjets, plasma, oxy-fuel), metal forming (rolling), welding, systems integration, and general fabrication.
• Strong understanding and practical experience with ERP, MES, and PLM systems.
• Experience in transitioning products from R&D to full-scale production.
• A proactive, hands-on leadership style, capable of leading teammates on the floor while also driving strategic execution.
• Ability to manage diverse teams in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.
• Exceptional problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills.
• Eligible to obtain and maintain an active U.S. Secret security clearance.
• Must be a U.S. Person due to required access to U.S. export controlled information or facilities.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field.
• Certifications in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other recognized continuous improvement methodologies.
• Experience with advanced or exotic materials common in defense or aerospace (e.g., Inconel, Monel, Titanium, HY-80).
• Prior experience in the defense or aerospace industry, particularly with maritime systems.

Responsibilities

• Build & Lead High-Performing Teams: Recruit, hire, train, and manage a full operations team, including Machinists, Welders, Fabricators, Machine Operators, and manufacturing kitting personnel. Establish team leads and foster a culture of safety, excellence, and continuous improvement.
• Establish Production Systems: Architect and implement all critical manufacturing infrastructure, including tool rooms, work cells, material flow, and comprehensive shipping & receiving management.
• Develop & Optimize Processes: Design, document, and implement robust manufacturing processes and procedures from the ground up, ensuring efficiency, first-time quality, and scalability.
• Oversee Daily Operations: Manage day-to-day production activities across diverse manufacturing disciplines, ensuring production schedules are met, quality standards are upheld, and resources are optimized.
• Drive Continuous Improvement: Implement and champion continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma) to enhance operational efficiency, reduce waste, and improve product quality and delivery.
• Bridge R&D to Production: Facilitate the seamless transition of new products and technologies from research and development into full-scale, repeatable production.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner closely with Engineering, R&D, Supply Chain, Quality Assurance, and Program Management teams to ensure alignment, resolve issues, and optimize the overall product lifecycle.
• Strategic Planning: Contribute to strategic planning for capacity, equipment, and technology roadmaps to support future growth and product development.

Benefits

• Highly competitive equity grants are included in the majority of full time offers; and are considered part of Anduril's total compensation package.
• Top-tier benefits for full-time employees, including: Benefits At Anduril, we invest in our people. Our comprehensive, competitive benefits package (available at little to no cost to employees) ensures you’re supported in health, recovery, and whatever comes next.

What This Job Offers

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