Operations Manager Defense Aerospace information
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$40.9K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$39K - $46.9K
20% of jobs
The median wage is $52.7K / yr.
$46.9K - $54.9K
14% of jobs
$54.9K - $62.8K
9% of jobs
$62.8K - $70.8K
11% of jobs
$72.4K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$70.8K - $78.7K
6% of jobs
$78.7K - $86.7K
6% of jobs
$86.7K - $94.6K
4% of jobs
$94.6K - $102.6K
3% of jobs
$102.6K - $110.5K
2% of jobs
$110.5K - $118.5K
4% of jobs
How much do operations manager defense aerospace jobs pay per year?
As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for operations manager defense aerospace in the United States is $63,456.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,000.00 and $77,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
An Operations Manager in Defense Aerospace oversees the daily operations of manufacturing, production, and logistics within organizations that supply products or services to the defense and aerospace sectors. They are responsible for optimizing processes, ensuring compliance with industry regulations, managing teams, and meeting project deadlines and quality standards. This role often involves coordinating between engineering, production, and quality assurance departments, as well as liaising with government or military clients to ensure contract requirements are met. Effective operations managers must balance efficiency, safety, and regulatory compliance in a highly technical and often secure environment.
To thrive as an Operations Manager in Defense Aerospace, you need a solid background in aerospace engineering or business management, experience in operations oversight, and often a security clearance. Familiarity with ERP systems like SAP, Lean Six Sigma certification, and compliance with defense industry regulations are typically required. Exceptional leadership, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are vital soft skills for managing teams and complex projects. These competencies ensure rigorous operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and successful delivery of critical aerospace projects.
An Operations Manager in defense aerospace often navigates complex regulatory requirements, strict quality standards, and highly sensitive project timelines. Coordinating between engineering, manufacturing, and compliance teams requires strong communication and problem-solving skills, especially when handling classified or export-controlled materials. Additionally, adapting to rapidly evolving technology and ensuring the workforce is up-to-date with training are ongoing challenges. Successful managers foster collaboration and maintain robust processes to meet client and government expectations while supporting operational efficiency.
What states have the most Operations Manager Defense Aerospace jobs?
States with the most job openings for Operations Manager Defense Aerospace jobs include:
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