Production-Process Operations Manager – Level 1

Northrop Grumman • Charlotte, NC

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Northrop Grumman’s Space Sector is seeking a Production-Process Operations Manager – Level 1 to manage the day-to-day manufacturing operations of the crystal growth department at its SYNOPTICS facility in Charlotte, North Carolina. The position is 100% onsite and does not accommodate telecommuting. SYNOPTICS grows, fabricates, and coats crystalline materials used in laser systems, serving the global photonics and optics industry.

The manager leads crystal growth technicians and welders, supporting high-quality production with minimal operational errors. Responsibilities include production scheduling and staffing, technician development and performance documentation, monitoring production progress and multi-day growth runs, training, inventory management, and maintaining safety and lean manufacturing practices. The role also supports off-hour personnel in a 24/7/365 manufacturing operation and requires working with technicians on the production floor to understand crystal growth processes and procedures.

No security clearance is required. Relocation assistance may be available. The primary level salary range is $86,800–$130,200. Depending on the position, employees may also be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus. Benefits include health insurance, life and disability insurance, a savings plan, company-paid holidays, and paid time off.

Requirements

• Associate degree in a technical or business discipline and at least 2 years of experience.
• At least 3 years of experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency reading technical drawings and electrical schematics.
• Excellent communication skills with technicians, engineers, and management.
• Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Excel, Word, and OneNote.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor of Science degree in a STEM field and/or business.
• At least 5 years of prior supervisory experience in manufacturing.
• Excellent Microsoft Excel and report-writing skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day manufacturing operations in the crystal growth department, including production scheduling, technician staffing, and production supply inventory.
• Supervise, coach, and schedule crystal growth technicians to support seamless production.
• Work with growth technicians to foster engagement and support career progression; handle disciplinary actions and document them.
• Lead shift pass-down stand-up meetings, document meeting notes, and monitor multi-day growth runs and daily production progress.
• Maintain and improve 5S and lean manufacturing practices, coaching growth personnel in their implementation.
• Oversee and deliver crystal growth training, including onboarding, cross-product, emergency-situation, and safety training.
• Coordinate with trainers and keep training progress logs current.
• Maintain production supply inventories, including ceramics, critical crystal growth equipment components, disposables, and welding-room supplies; improve the inventory Kanban system.
• Support off-hour technicians and communicate with off-hour supervisors and technicians in a 24/7/365 manufacturing operation.
• Ensure compliance with safety protocols and standard operating plans.
• Work with technicians on the production floor to understand crystal growth processes and procedures.

Benefits

• Health insurance coverage
• Life and disability insurance
• Savings plan
• Company-paid holidays
• Paid time off for vacation and/or personal business
• Potential eligibility for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus
• Relocation assistance may be available

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Education Level: Associate degree