Production and Programs Manager

WASEYABEK DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LLC•Crockery Township, MI

6d•Onsite

About The Position

The Production Programs Manager is responsible for leading and optimizing all operational aspects of the organization's volume production and low-rate assembly activities. This role serves as a key member of the leadership team, ensuring the effective execution of programs through strategic planning, resource management, workforce leadership, and operational excellence. The successful candidate will oversee personnel, department budget, schedules, and work cell operations while driving continuous improvement initiatives that support customer requirements, business objectives, and long-term organizational growth.

Requirements

7+ years of progressive leadership experience in manufacturing/assembly operations, aerospace, defense, or related technical environments.
Demonstrated experience managing personnel, budgets, schedules, facilities, and operational performance.
Strong understanding of prototype manufacturing, assembly, integration, and test activities.
Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Excellent leadership, communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

Nice To Haves

Experience with government contracting, aerospace and defense standards, and regulated environments preferred.

Responsibilities

Lead day-to-day activities supporting contract assembly and product production programs.
Establish operational priorities and align resources to ensure successful program execution.
Drive operational efficiency, productivity, and quality across all work cells and functional areas.
Develop and implement policies, procedures, and best practices that support organizational objectives.
Collaborate with Engineering, Program Management, Quality, and Supply Chain teams to ensure projects are delivered on schedule and within budget.
Monitor operational performance, identify risks, and implement corrective actions as necessary.
Support proposal development, program planning, and resource forecasting for new business opportunities.
Ensure compliance with customer requirements, contractual obligations, and regulatory standards.
Develop, manage, and monitor departmental budgets, labor utilization, and operational expenditures.
Oversee workforce planning, staffing requirements, and resource allocation across multiple projects and programs.
Analyze operational metrics and financial performance to support strategic decision-making.
Identify opportunities for cost reduction and operational improvement without compromising quality or performance.
Lead, mentor, and develop multidisciplinary teams including manufacturing engineers, technicians, assemblers, and operational staff.
Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.
Conduct performance management activities including goal setting, coaching, succession planning, and professional development.
Build organizational capability to support future growth and increased program demands.
Oversee facility operations, maintenance, equipment utilization, and infrastructure planning.
Ensure compliance with environmental, health, safety, security, and quality standards.
Support capital investment planning and implementation to expand operational capabilities and capacity.
Maintain operational readiness of facilities and equipment supporting aerospace programs.
Champion Lean, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency, quality, and throughput.
Establish and track key performance indicators (KPIs) related to schedule performance, quality, safety, productivity, and financial objectives.
Drive process improvements that improve customer satisfaction and organizational effectiveness.