Senior Manufacturing Manager

Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc.

San Luis Obispo, CA, USA

Published: 6/14/2022

Manufacturing

Job Description

Senior Manufacturing Manager

Position Summary

The Senior Manufacturing Manager is responsible for overseeing daily manufacturing operations, ensuring production goals are met with a focus on quality, efficiency, and safety. This hands-on leadership role supports the strategic direction set by the Director of Manufacturing and works closely with cross-functional teams to drive continuous improvement, optimize processes, and manage resources effectively. The Senior Manufacturing Manager plays a critical role in executing departmental plans, maintaining compliance, and fostering a culture of accountability and innovation on the production floor.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Operational Leadership

Manage daily manufacturing activities across assigned production lines or value streams to meet schedule, quality, and cost objectives.

Supervise, mentor, and develop manufacturing supervisors, team leads, and production staff.

Coordinate closely with planning, engineering, quality, and materials teams to ensure smooth workflow and timely issue resolution.

Provide regular updates to the Director of Manufacturing on production status, staffing, and operational challenges.

2. KPI Monitoring and Reporting

Track and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) related to output, quality, efficiency, and downtime.

Recommend and implement corrective actions to meet performance targets.

Support strategic goals by providing data and insights that inform higher-level decision-making.

3. Process Improvement and Efficiency

Identify inefficiencies in production processes and recommend improvements in workflow, layout, and resource utilization.

Lead or participate in Continuous Improvement (CI) initiatives, including employee-submitted suggestions and lean manufacturing efforts.

Support the adoption of automation and new technologies to enhance productivity.

4. Team Development and Communication

Conduct regular team meetings, performance reviews, and one-on-one check-ins to promote clear communication and staff engagement.

Assist with workforce planning, training, and onboarding in partnership with HR and department leadership.

Promote a culture of safety, accountability, and collaboration on the production floor.

5. Compliance and Safety

Ensure all manufacturing operations comply with company policies, safety regulations, and quality standards.

Address safety incidents or near-misses promptly and participate in root cause analyses and corrective actions.

Monitor adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs) and recommend updates as needed.

Success Factors:

Strong leadership presence on the manufacturing floor with the ability to inspire and guide teams.

Clear and confident communicator who can translate strategy into actionable plans.

Proactive problem-solver with a continuous improvement mindset.

Skilled in balancing priorities, managing deadlines, and adjusting to shifting demands in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing, Industrial Engineering, Operations, or a related field (or equivalent experience).

7+ years of experience in manufacturing with 3+ years in a leadership or supervisory role.

Working knowledge of lean manufacturing principles, root cause analysis, and process optimization.

Experience using ERP systems and manufacturing performance metrics.

Familiarity with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards applicable to manufacturing environments.

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!

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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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: $ 140k-$160k Salary Exempt (DOE)

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