Director of Manufacturing chez Ideal Aerosmith

Ideal Aerosmith is a leading supplier of precision inertial guidance test systems, flight motion simulators, and a premier provider of aerospace test engineering services, ATE system engineering, and quality contract manufacturing services to the aerospace industry. We're experts and we earn that title everyday with our customers through innovative engineering, manufacturing, and sustainment of world-class motion and electric test solutions and services. 

Here, we don’t just solve complex problems - we redefine what’s possible. Every role at Ideal Aerosmith supports a lean culture through continuous improvement - ongoing, incremental enhancements to products, processes, or services aimed at reducing waste and boosting efficiency, customer service, and performance. With a team of skilled problem solvers and a culture that thrives on tackling challenges head-on, we are dedicated to our clients' success. Enjoy competitive benefits, a supportive work environment, and every other Friday off to recharge. 

The Director of Manufacturing is accountable for managing the end-to-end manufacturing process—from material availability through final assembly, inspection, integration, and testing. This leadership role oversees a team of 40+ employees, including 6+ direct reports, and is responsible for ensuring production operations consistently meet or exceed customer expectations for quality, cost-efficiency, and on-time delivery.

Job Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations of manufacturing, including production planning, manufacturing engineering, assembly, inspection, integration functions.
• Develop and implement efficient production strategies, processes and procedures to improve workflow, reduce waste, and increase throughput.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and initiate corrective actions to meet or exceed operational goals.
• Drive a culture of continuous improvement by leading quality initiatives and process enhancements across departments.
• Collaborate closely with engineering, program management, supply chain, sales, and service teams to support new product introductions and customer requirements.
• Mentor and develop team leaders to maximize individual and team performance.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards and internal quality requirements.
• Lead efforts to develop and maintain a robust employee training program, ensuring skill development and knowledge retention across the team.
• Champion lean manufacturing principles and promote a data-driven, results-oriented approach to problem solving.

Qualification Requirements

• BS or equivalent experience in Business or Technical field.
• 10+ years of experience in manufacturing environment with similar experience as listed above.
• 5+ years of experience leading people.
• Ability to travel (domestic and internationally) and obtain a passport.
• To meet the requirements for government contract work and work in a restricted facility, candidates must adhere to specific criteria set by federal regulations. This includes: 1) a U.S. citizen (whether born or naturalized); 2) a lawful permanent resident of the United States; or 3) a protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 

Skills Requirements

• Excellent verbal and written communications skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and leadership skills.
• Customer-focused solutions.
• Project management with a proven track record for timely project delivery, project quality, cost control, and customer satisfaction.
• Ability to make sound decisions based on sometimes conflicting information.

Physical Requirements

• Must have the ability to lift and/or carry 45 lbs.
• Ability to work for extended periods at computer workstation/keyboard.
• Ability to type accurately and efficiently.
• The position will require walking, standing, squatting, crouching, stooping, lifting, climbing, pulling, pushing, sitting, repetitive motion and kneeling.

Ideal Aerosmith is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or any other characteristic protected by law. Our goal is to create a work environment that celebrates diversity and inclusion, where all employees feel respected and valued. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals and strive to provide equal employment opportunities to everyone.