Position Summary
The Production Manager at FlightWave Aerospace is responsible for leading and coordinating day-to-day production activities in support of UAS system manufacturing. This role ensures execution of build plans, team alignment, quality output, and continuous improvement across assembly, integration, and test processes. The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader with a deep understanding of lean production, team supervision, and build-to-order workflows in a dynamic, fast-paced aerospace environment.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Manage daily manufacturing operations including UAV system builds, subassembly integration, and final configuration.
- Lead and supervise production teams, including technicians and assembly staff, ensuring productivity and quality goals are met.
- Coordinate with supply chain, planning, engineering, and quality teams to ensure material availability, work order execution, and schedule adherence.
- Implement and sustain lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement initiatives on the production floor.
- Track production KPIs such as throughput, first-pass yield, on-time delivery, and labor efficiency.
- Own the production schedule and adjust resourcing or workflow as needed to meet customer delivery targets.
- Train and develop production staff; promote a culture of safety, accountability, and teamwork.
- Ensure compliance with company procedures, build documentation, and regulatory/quality standards (e.g., AS9100).
- Identify and troubleshoot bottlenecks, process inefficiencies, and quality escapes.
- Participate in new product introduction (NPI) planning and production readiness activities.
Required Qualifications
- Associates or Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations, or a related field preferred.
- Minimum 5 years of experience in production or manufacturing management, preferably in aerospace, defense, or high-tech assembly environments.
- Proven experience managing teams and achieving build targets in a production setting.
- Preferred: Lean Six Sigma certification, OSHA 30, IPC/WHMA-A-620 familiarity.
- Strong leadership, planning, and organizational skills.
- Working knowledge of ERP/MRP systems and production scheduling tools.
- Experience with lean manufacturing principles, standard work, and continuous improvement practices.
- Ability to interpret technical drawings, BOMs, and work instructions.
- Effective communicator and problem solver in cross-functional environments.
Additional Desired Qualifications
- Experience in low- to mid-volume production of electro-mechanical systems.
- Familiarity with drone/UAV product assembly or small aerospace platforms.
- Experience supporting product ramps and new production line setups.
- Background in production planning or manufacturing engineering a plus.
Physical Requirements and Working Conditions
- Ability to stand and move between production cells for extended periods.
- Must be able to lift up to 30 lbs occasionally.
- May require weekend or extended hours during delivery ramps or customer deadlines.
Background Check
This position will require successfully completing a post-offer background check. Qualified candidates with a criminal history will be considered and are not automatically disqualified, consistent with federal and state law.
EEO and ITAR/EAR Work Authorization Disclosure
Red Cat Holdings provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This position requires direct or indirect access to hardware, software, technology or technical data controlled under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Successful candidates for positions subject to ITAR/EAR restrictions must provide proof of U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residence and must not require sponsorship for export-restricted work authorization.
E-Verify
The company participates E-Verify ensure eligibility for employment and compliance with Right to Work rules.
Compensation: $110k - $132k, plus generous annual equity package and potential bonuses.
