Production Operations Manager

Firestorm•San Diego, CA

1d•$130,000 - $160,000•Onsite

About The Position

Firestorm Labs is seeking a Production Operations Manager to join our growing team in San Diego. At Firestorm Labs, we are building the future of distributed, mission-adaptive airpower for the modern warfighter. You will play a critical leadership role responsible for overseeing day-to-day manufacturing operations and ensuring our production runs efficiently, safely, and in full alignment with quality and delivery expectations. You will also be a hands-on leader who thrives in a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and technical excellence, with the ability to manage complex build processes that integrate both hardware and software steps. You will collaborate closely with Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, and New Product Introduction teams to ensure that production capabilities align with evolving technical requirements and volume goals. Your work will directly influence Firestorm's ability to scale efficiently, maintain product reliability, and ensure mission readiness across all platforms.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Business, or a related field; equivalent experience will be considered.
U.S. Citizenship required due to ITAR regulations, with the ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance.
5+ years of operations or manufacturing management experience, preferably in aerospace, defense, or a similarly regulated industry.
Experience managing complex build processes involving both hardware and software components. (i.e. cables, PCBA assemblies and electromechanical parts)
Experience with QMS AS9100
Experience with Continuous Improvement (CI) methodologies and tools
Experience interfacing with supply chain and procurement functions to maintain material flow and support production demands.
Experience with Microsoft Office 365 (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint)

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, or a related discipline.
Technical aptitude related to drone or UAV systems, including familiarity with propulsion, avionics, or airframe assembly sufficient to lead and support a skilled production team.
Experience with ERP systems (e.g., Costpoint) and production management tools.
Experience with Lean, Six Sigma, ACE, CORE, 5S or equivalent CI tools and methodologies
Prior experience in an early-stage, high-growth tech or hardware startup environment.
Ability to influence change and drive operational improvements as business needs and production volumes scale.
Experience managing complex, fast-paced operations in a dynamic environment

Responsibilities

Oversee daily manufacturing operations, including production scheduling, resource allocation, and workflow management to meet delivery targets.
Lead and manage complex build processes that incorporate integrated hardware and software steps, ensuring procedures are followed, documented, and continuously improved.
Partner with Engineering, Quality, and Supply Chain teams to resolve technical issues, drive corrective actions, and support new product introductions.
Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and use data to identify trends, address gaps, and report on operational performance to senior leadership.
Build and develop a high-performing team by setting clear expectations, providing coaching, and fostering a respectful and inclusive workplace culture.
Ensure compliance with AS9100 and other applicable aerospace quality and regulatory standards and enforce all safety policies to maintain a safe working environment.
Support and reinforce a culture of quality by contributing to the implementation and sustainment of 5S, Lean, and continuous improvement methodologies across the production floor.
Partner with supply chain and procurement teams to support inventory management processes, helping maintain material availability and minimize disruptions to production.
Exhibit problem-solving, communication, and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Lead cross-functional teams and collaborate effectively across Engineering, Quality, and Supply Chain departments.
Communicate and present technical data and analysis to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
Perform other duties as needed

Benefits

Comprehensive medical, dental, and visions plans
401(k) Retirement Savings Plan
Equity grants for new hires
Unlimited PTO
Extremely generous company holiday calendar, including a holiday hiatus in July & December.
Generous Parental Leave
Lifestyle Spending Account
FSA
DCFSA
HSA
Hospital Indemnity insurance
Critical Illness insurance
Accident insurance
Basic Life/AD&D, short-term and long-term disability insurance, 100% covered by Firestorm. Plus, the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your family.
Mental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more. Additional work-life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well.