Senior Manufacturing Manager

Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc. • San Luis Obispo, CA

24d • Onsite

About The Position

The Senior Manufacturing Manager is responsible for overseeing daily manufacturing operations, ensuring production goals are met with a focus on quality, efficiency, and safety. This hands-on leadership role supports the strategic direction set by the Director of Manufacturing and works closely with cross-functional teams to drive continuous improvement, optimize processes, and manage resources effectively. The Senior Manufacturing Manager plays a critical role in executing departmental plans, maintaining compliance, and fostering a culture of accountability and innovation on the production floor.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing, Industrial Engineering, Operations, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• 7+ years of experience in manufacturing with 3+ years in a leadership or supervisory role.
• Working knowledge of lean manufacturing principles, root cause analysis, and process optimization.
• Experience using ERP systems and manufacturing performance metrics.
• Familiarity with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards applicable to manufacturing environments.

Responsibilities

• Manage daily manufacturing activities across assigned production lines or value streams to meet schedule, quality, and cost objectives.
• Supervise, mentor, and develop manufacturing supervisors, team leads, and production staff.
• Coordinate closely with planning, engineering, quality, and materials teams to ensure smooth workflow and timely issue resolution.
• Provide regular updates to the Director of Manufacturing on production status, staffing, and operational challenges.
• Track and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) related to output, quality, efficiency, and downtime.
• Recommend and implement corrective actions to meet performance targets.
• Support strategic goals by providing data and insights that inform higher-level decision-making.
• Identify inefficiencies in production processes and recommend improvements in workflow, layout, and resource utilization.
• Lead or participate in Continuous Improvement (CI) initiatives, including employee-submitted suggestions and lean manufacturing efforts.
• Support the adoption of automation and new technologies to enhance productivity.
• Conduct regular team meetings, performance reviews, and one-on-one check-ins to promote clear communication and staff engagement.
• Assist with workforce planning, training, and onboarding in partnership with HR and department leadership.
• Promote a culture of safety, accountability, and collaboration on the production floor.
• Ensure all manufacturing operations comply with company policies, safety regulations, and quality standards.
• Address safety incidents or near-misses promptly and participate in root cause analyses and corrective actions.
• Monitor adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs) and recommend updates as needed.

Benefits

• Health & Wellness: Choose from three health, dental, and vision plans - including a 100% employer-paid option covering both employees and their families.
• Paid Time Off: Enjoy 120 hours of PTO, 80 hours accrued plus an additional 40 hours of holiday break pay in addition to Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day off.
• Life Insurance: $25,000 employer-paid life insurance policy, with the option to purchase additional coverage for employees and their families.
• Supplemental Coverage: Access optional benefits such as Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, Accident Insurance, and Critical Illness with Skin Cancer coverage.
• Health Savings Account (HSA): Take advantage of a tax-advantaged HSA to manage medical expenses.
• Retirement Savings: 401(k) with a company match to support your financial future.
• Paid Holidays: Enjoy 9 paid holidays throughout the year.
• Work Environment: A casual dress code, complimentary snacks, and a welcoming company culture.
• Ideal Location: Work in an area that offers an outstanding quality of life - a perfect place to live, work, and play!

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Number of Employees: 1-10 employees