Director of Production - IDCA
$190,000–$250,000 year
On-siteHudson, New Hampshire, United States
Job Summary
Own all AIRS production outcomes including ramp plans, new product introductions, headcount planning, and on-time delivery targets. Drive the full lifecycle of IDCA and infrared module manufacturing process design, documentation, and continuous improvement to ensure high yield, quality, and efficiency. Lead and develop a cross-functional manufacturing team spanning production, manufacturing engineering, and quality while establishing clear career paths. Strategize and execute initiatives to increase production capacity by specifying, sourcing, and qualifying new process equipment. Champion automation, data collection, and process control systems to enhance quality, reduce cycle time, and expand test coverage. Develop and manage comprehensive preventive maintenance and equipment spares programs to maximize uptime, with a focus on high-vacuum systems and cooled thermal imaging assemblies. Hold cross-functional teams accountable to meeting demands, deadlines, and goals while building strong partnerships with Engineering, Supply Chain, and Program Management. Establish and manage financial, quality, and on-time delivery KPIs to understand manufacturing operations' impact on the business. Support the development and implementation of digital technologies from PLM and ERP to custom MES and QMS systems. Be accountable to AS9100D guidelines and drive a culture of continuous improvement across all manufacturing processes.
Required Qualifications
- Degree in a technical field such as mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, systems engineering, math, or a hard science.
- 8+ years of progressive experience in manufacturing or production operations within a deeply technical hardware industry such as aerospace, defense, consumer electronics, medical, or automotive.
- 3+ years of experience in a production leadership role managing cross-functional teams including manufacturing engineering, quality, and technicians.
- Professional experience with high-vacuum systems and/or the cooled thermal imaging industry, specifically with Dewars, coolers, and IDCAs.
- Proven track record of yield and process improvement, ideally supported by a Six Sigma Black Belt certification or equivalent methodology expertise.
- Demonstrated experience owning a new product ramp through full-rate production.
- Experience managing production budgets and driving teams to financial and operational targets.
- Strong ability to work cross-functionally in a fast-paced, evolving environment.
- Ability to engage with engineering teams on a highly technical level while maintaining a strong outcome orientation and driving initiatives from inception to implementation.
- Relentless drive for continuous improvement and solving high-impact business problems through process optimization, business systems, and data.
- Eligible to obtain and maintain an active U.S. Secret security clearance.
Desired Qualifications
- Startup or high-growth experience preferred.
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