Production Operations Manager Jobs in California

The Maritime Manufacturing Technology team is responsible for rapidly developing and implementing manufacturing technologies and processes for cutting-edge defense hardware, including deployable static and moving surface, undersea and sea to air vehicles and scaling these products in our new manufacturing facilities.

We are seeking a highly experienced and hands-on Production Operations Manager to lead the stand-up and ongoing operations of our advanced manufacturing facility in Santa Ana, CA. This is a foundational role where you will build and manage the entire production system, from team formation to day-to-day execution, ensuring the rapid and high-quality delivery of our groundbreaking maritime products. You will oversee a diverse range of processes including CNC machining, waterjet/plasma/oxy-fuel cutting, plate rolling, welding, systems integration, kitting, and general fabrication. This role is instrumental in translating cutting-edge R&D into scalable, high-volume production.

• Build & Lead High-Performing Teams: Recruit, hire, train, and manage a full operations team, including Machinists, Welders, Fabricators, Machine Operators, and manufacturing kitting personnel. Establish team leads and foster a culture of safety, excellence, and continuous improvement.
• Establish Production Systems: Architect and implement all critical manufacturing infrastructure, including tool rooms, work cells, material flow, and comprehensive shipping & receiving management.
• Develop & Optimize Processes: Design, document, and implement robust manufacturing processes and procedures from the ground up, ensuring efficiency, first-time quality, and scalability.
• Oversee Daily Operations: Manage day-to-day production activities across diverse manufacturing disciplines, ensuring production schedules are met, quality standards are upheld, and resources are optimized.
• Drive Continuous Improvement: Implement and champion continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma) to enhance operational efficiency, reduce waste, and improve product quality and delivery.
• Bridge R&D to Production: Facilitate the seamless transition of new products and technologies from research and development into full-scale, repeatable production.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner closely with Engineering, R&D, Supply Chain, Quality Assurance, and Program Management teams to ensure alignment, resolve issues, and optimize the overall product lifecycle.
• Strategic Planning: Contribute to strategic planning for capacity, equipment, and technology roadmaps to support future growth and product development.

• 10-15+ years of progressive experience in a manufacturing environment.
• 5+ years in a leadership, management, or supervisor role overseeing diverse production teams.
• Proven experience establishing and standing up manufacturing facilities or significant production lines.
• Demonstrated experience managing complex manufacturing processes including CNC machining, cutting (waterjets, plasma, oxy-fuel), metal forming (rolling), welding, systems integration, and general fabrication.
• Strong understanding and practical experience with ERP, MES, and PLM systems.
• Experience in transitioning products from R&D to full-scale production.
• A proactive, hands-on leadership style, capable of leading teammates on the floor while also driving strategic execution.
• Ability to manage diverse teams in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.
• Exceptional problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills.
• Eligible to obtain and maintain an active U.S. Secret security clearance.
• Must be a U.S. Person due to required access to U.S. export controlled information or facilities.

• Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field.
• Certifications in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other recognized continuous improvement methodologies.
• Experience with advanced or exotic materials common in defense or aerospace (e.g., Inconel, Monel, Titanium, HY-80).
• Prior experience in the defense or aerospace industry, particularly with maritime systems.