🏭 Manufacturing Manager
High-Mix, Low-Volume Aerospace Manufacturing
📍 Location: Phoenix, Arizona (Onsite)
🏭 Industry: Aerospace · Defense · Advanced Manufacturing
🧠 Level: Mid–Senior
👥 Management: Yes (Direct leadership responsibility)
✈️ Travel: Up to 10%
💼 Employment Type: Full-Time | Permanent
🛂 Visa Sponsorship: Not available
🔐 Export Controls: U.S. work authorization required
🚀 The Opportunity
A highly respected aerospace and defense technology organization is seeking a Manufacturing Manager to play a pivotal role in supporting advanced manufacturing operations in Arizona.
This role is ideal for a hands-on manufacturing leader who thrives in a high-mix, low-volume environment, enjoys solving complex production challenges, and is passionate about continuous improvement, automation, and developing high-performing technical teams.
You’ll be instrumental in both new product introduction (NPI) and the ongoing optimization of mature production programs—bridging engineering, operations, and quality to drive world-class manufacturing outcomes.
🎯 What You’ll Be Responsible For
Lead qualification of manufacturing processes for new products and drive continuous improvement across existing operations
Manage, mentor, and develop Manufacturing Technicians and Engineers
Define and document manufacturing procedures, routing, and work instructions
Establish time standards, cost estimates, and economic run quantities
Evaluate, justify, and implement new manufacturing equipment and technologies
Own and support automated manufacturing cells, improving stability and reducing labor variability
Partner with engineering, quality, operations, and suppliers to resolve process issues
Ensure manufacturability through drawing reviews and design-for-manufacturing input
Support NC programming, tooling, fixturing, and program prove-outs
Lead or support cost estimating and manufacturing input for new proposals
Champion safety, compliance, and continuous improvement culture
🧩 Required Experience & Qualifications
5+ years experience in manufacturing engineering or operations
3+ years of direct people management experience
Experience manufacturing circuit card assemblies (CCAs) and sensitive electronics
Strong background in process engineering from raw material to finished goods
Working knowledge of IPC and NASA manufacturing standards
Excellent written, verbal, and presentation communication skills
⭐ Preferred Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering
Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma certification
Hands-on experience setting up and operating SMT machines
🧠 What Sets You Apart
Comfortable operating in non-routine, complex manufacturing environments
Strong leadership presence with the ability to influence across disciplines
Passion for automation, process optimization, and operational excellence
Ability to think creatively and apply “out-of-the-box” solutions
Proven track record of developing technical teams and driving results
💰 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $140,000 – $155,000 (Phoenix, AZ)
Comprehensive benefits package including:
Medical, dental, and vision coverage
Paid time off
Retirement programs
Annual bonus opportunities
Employee stock purchase plan (where applicable)
Relocation assistance may be available for the ideal candidate
Final compensation will be based on experience, skills, and overall fit.
🏢 Work Environment & Culture
Fully onsite role in Phoenix, AZ
Collaborative, performance-driven culture
Engineers and leaders trusted to own outcomes
Emphasis on integrity, accountability, and technical excellence
📌 Candidate Snapshot
Attribute
Details
Role
Manufacturing Manager
Industry
Aerospace / Defense
Location
Phoenix, AZ (Onsite)
Experience
5–7+ years
Management
Yes
Manufacturing Focus
Electronics / CCAs
Environment
High-mix, low-volume
✨ Why This Role Matters
This is a high-impact leadership role where your decisions directly influence product quality, production efficiency, and the success of advanced aerospace programs. You’ll be empowered to lead change, introduce new technologies, and build manufacturing processes that support mission-critical systems.