Spacecraft Production Manager

Apex Technology•Los Angeles, CA

2d•Onsite

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. About the Role Apex is seeking an experienced Production Manager to lead our high-volume 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.

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, ideally managing managers across multiple shifts
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

Responsibilities

Lead and develop a team of production supervisors and technicians to achieve daily, weekly, and monthly production goals
Own end-to-end production operations for assigned manufacturing areas, from raw materials to finished product
Drive operational excellence through lean manufacturing principles, identifying and eliminating waste in all forms
Develop and execute production schedules that balance efficiency, quality, and delivery commitments
Collaborate cross-functionally with engineering, quality, supply chain, and maintenance teams to resolve production constraints and drive continuous improvement
Implement process improvements that increase throughput, reduce cycle time, and lower manufacturing costs
Monitor key performance indicators 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
Manage equipment reliability programs and coordinate with maintenance teams to minimize unplanned downtime
Build and maintain a high-performance culture focused on accountability, urgency, and results
Lead root cause analysis and implement corrective actions for quality escapes and production disruptions
Drive workforce planning, hiring, and training initiatives to support rapid production scaling

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