Solar Array Production Manager
About The Position
Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge. For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles. Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more. We’d love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet. Apex is seeking an experienced Production Manager to lead our high-volume solar array manufacturing operations and deliver world-class products on aggressive timelines. This role requires a hands-on leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment, drives continuous improvement, and isn't afraid to challenge the status quo. You will be responsible for managing production teams, optimizing processes, and ensuring we meet our ambitious production targets while maintaining the highest quality standards for solar array systems.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline or 7+ years of professional experience in a high-rate manufacturing/production environment
- 2+ years of experience directly managing teams of 20+ employees
- Experience with lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies
- Proven track record of meeting aggressive production targets in a high-volume manufacturing environment
- Strong analytical skills with experience using data to drive decision-making
- Experience developing and implementing new features in ERP/MES systems for use by production personnel
- Demonstrated ability and passion for people leadership, focused on coaching and mentoring team members to drive strong performance
Nice To Haves
- solar, semiconductor, or electronics manufacturing preferred
- Knowledge of solar panel manufacturing processes, quality standards (IEC 61215, UL 1703), and testing procedures is a plus
- Experience with mechanical assembly and deployment systems is a plus
Responsibilities
- Lead and develop a team of production technicians to achieve daily, weekly, and monthly solar array production goals
- Own end-to-end production operations for assigned solar array manufacturing areas, from raw materials (solar cells) to finished solar panels and mechanical deployment systems for solar blankets
- Oversee the manufacturing of mechanical deploy systems for solar blankets, ensuring proper integration, functionality, and reliability of deployment mechanisms
- Drive operational excellence through lean manufacturing principles, identifying and eliminating waste in all forms of solar array production
- Develop and execute production schedules that balance efficiency, quality, and delivery commitments for solar array orders
- Collaborate cross-functionally with engineering, quality, supply chain, and maintenance teams to resolve production constraints and drive continuous improvement in solar manufacturing processes
- Implement process improvements that increase throughput, reduce cycle time, and lower manufacturing costs for solar array production
- Monitor key performance indicators (panel efficiency, defect rates, production yield, deployment system performance) and take immediate corrective action when metrics fall outside acceptable ranges
- Ensure compliance with all safety regulations and foster a culture where safety is never compromised in solar manufacturing operations
- Manage equipment reliability programs for solar array production equipment (laminators, stringers, testing stations) and coordinate with maintenance teams to minimize unplanned downtime
- Build and maintain a high-performance culture focused on accountability, urgency, and results in solar array manufacturing
- Lead root cause analysis and implement corrective actions for quality escapes (cell breakage, delamination, electrical failures, deployment mechanism issues) and production disruptions
- Drive workforce planning, hiring, and training initiatives to support rapid scaling of solar array production capacity
Benefits
- Shared upside: Receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create
- Best-in-class healthcare: 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost
- Comprehensive PTO package to reset and recharge - starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays
- Competitive 401(k) plan with generous matching - 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%
- 8 weeks paid parental leave plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel
- Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day
- Vibrant community: Monthly office BBQs, pickleball tournaments, run club, and social gatherings for you and your family
- Your dream desk setup and all the tools you need to be your most productive self
- World-class Playa Vista office with EV chargers, with the benefit of in-person collaboration with amazing coworkers and flexibility to integrate work and life
- Real impact opportunity: Work alongside experts from aerospace, new space, and other cutting-edge industries to make a lasting difference
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Manager
