Production Manager 

Company Overview 

Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc (ESAero) is a leader in aerospace engineering, product development, and manufacturing, dedicated to delivering high-quality, innovative, and cost-effective solutions to the industry. We specialize in cutting-edge system design, rapid product development, precision manufacturing, comprehensive testing, and technology demonstrations to support the evolving needs of the aerospace community. Committed to excellence, on-time delivery, and continuous growth, we invest in infrastructure to expand our manufacturing and aftermarket capabilities while maintaining the highest standards of engineering services. 

At ESAero, we don’t just build products, we engineer solutions that propel  

the aerospace industry forward. 

**This position is fully on-site at ESAero in San Luis Obispo, CA** 

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Job Summary: 

ESAero is seeking a Production Manager with experience in developing and leading a production manufacturing environment to join our team in San Luis Obispo, CA. As the Production Manager you will be responsible for the development, technical management, supervision, and control of industrial production processes. Your primary focus will be supporting new manufacturing lines and ensuring their efficiency and effectiveness in producing aerospace components and systems. 

Responsibilities and Duties: 

• Oversee and manage production processes, including planning, scheduling, and execution of manufacturing activities. 

• Provide technical guidance and expertise to production teams, ensuring adherence to industry standards, specifications, and quality requirements. 

• Supervise and coach production staff, fostering a culture of safety, open communication and transparency, continuous improvement, efficiency, and quality excellence. 

• Monitor production activities, track progress, and make necessary adjustments to ensure on-time delivery and maximize productivity. 

• Implement effective production control measures to minimize waste, reduce costs, and enhance overall efficiency. 

• Promote a safety-first culture and ensure adherence to safety protocols. 

Resource Management: 

• Manage and allocate resources, including personnel, equipment, and materials, to meet production demands and optimize utilization. 

• Identify staffing requirements, recruit and train production staff, and provide ongoing coaching and performance management. 

Quality Assurance and Compliance: 

• Collaborate with the quality assurance team to resolve quality issues and drive continuous improvement initiatives. 

Health and Safety: 

• Ensure compliance with occupational health and safety regulations and promote a safe working environment. 

• Support the Safety team in conducting risk assessments, implementing safety protocols, and providing training to employees on safety procedures and best practices. 

Required Qualifications and Skills: 

• Proven experience as a Production Manager or in a similar manufacturing leadership role with a minimum of 5 years of experience. 

• Knowledge of aerospace (or equivalent) manufacturing processes, technologies, and quality control standards, with a focus on overall design and setup of manufacturing lines. 

• Strong understanding and practical application of AS9100, ISO9001, or similar quality management system standards. 

• Strong leadership abilities with the capability to motivate and manage a diverse production team. 

• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to make informed decisions under pressure. 

• Outstanding organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize tasks effectively. 

• Effective communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders. 

• Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies. 

• Demonstrated leadership abilities, including the ability to motivate and inspire a team and drive continuous improvement initiatives. 

• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite. 

Desired Qualifications and Skills: 

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, manufacturing, or related field within operations. 

• 10+ years of experience in aerospace manufacturing or related industry. 

• Experience in managing manufacturing operations within the aerospace and DoD industry. 

• Extensive knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and experience implementing lean methodologies in an aerospace manufacturing setting. 

• Experience in implementing automation solutions to improve manufacturing efficiency. 

• Proven track record of successfully leading and implementing continuous improvement projects. 

• Professional certifications related to manufacturing, quality, or leadership, such as Lean Six Sigma certifications or Project Management Professional (PMP) certification. 

• Familiarity with Department of Defense (DoD) regulations and experience in working on DoD manufacturing contracts. 

Comprehensive Benefits & Perks: 

• Health & Wellness: Choose from three health, dental, and vision plans - including a 100% employer-paid option covering both employees and their families. 

• Paid Time Off: Enjoy 120 hours of PTO, 80 hours accrued plus an additional 40 hours of holiday break pay in addition to Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day off. 

• Life Insurance: $25,000 employer-paid life insurance policy, with the option to purchase additional coverage for employees and their families. 

• Supplemental Coverage: Access optional benefits such as Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, Accident Insurance, and Critical Illness with Skin Cancer coverage. 

• Health Savings Account (HSA): Take advantage of a tax-advantaged HSA to manage medical expenses. 

• Retirement Savings: 401(k) with a company match to support your financial future. 

• Paid Holidays: Enjoy 9 paid holidays throughout the year. 

• Work Environment: A casual dress code, complimentary snacks, and a welcoming company culture. 

• Ideal Location: Work in an area that offers an outstanding quality of life - a perfect place to live, work, and play! 

ESAero is an equal opportunity employer.  
E-Verify participation required for employment.  
Must present proof of authorization to work in the United States.     
Must be able to pass background check.    
Hiring Range: $80k - $120K (DOE)