Production Manager

About Mach Industries Founded in 2023, Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology company focused on developing next-generation autonomous defense platforms . At the core of our mission is the commitment to delivering scalable, decentralized defense systems that enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its allies. With a workforce of approximately 350 employees , we operate with startup agility and ambition. Our vision is to redefine the future of warfare through cutting-edge manufacturing, innovation at speed, and unwavering focus on national security. We are dedicated to solving the next generation of warfare with lethal systems that deter kinetic conflict and protect global security.

We are seeking a highly driven and experienced Production Manager to lead manufacturing operations supporting the end-to-end build of critical flight hardware, prototype systems, composite airframe structures, and unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) . This role will own production execution across multiple manufacturing work centers and serve as a key bridge between Manufacturing Engineering, Program Management, Quality, Supply Chain, and fabrication to transition innovative hardware from prototype development into repeatable, scalable manufacturing. The ideal candidate is a hands-on manufacturing leader who can balance immediate production execution with long-term manufacturing strategy.

Lead the planning, fabrication, and testing of prototype hardware and production systems. Own production execution across soft materials fabrication, additive manufacturing, composites fabrication, avionics, final integration, and end-of-line vehicle validation. Lead, coach, and develop Production Supervisors, Lead Technicians, and technicians across multiple shifts, establishing clear expectations for performance and accountability. Translate program demand into executable production schedules, staffing plans, capacity requirements, and daily manufacturing priorities. Own production KPIs including safety, quality, schedule attainment, labor efficiency, throughput, yield, rework, equipment utilization, and cost. Partner with Manufacturing Engineering on Design-for-Manufacturability (DFM), PFMEA, work instructions, process development, and manufacturing readiness. Drive the transition of new products and processes from prototype development through LRIP and scaled production. Identify labor, material, tooling, equipment, and facility constraints and develop recovery or capacity expansion plans. Lead root cause, corrective action, and continuous improvement efforts to improve manufacturing flow, quality, and efficiency. Develop scalable production systems, operating rhythms, visual management, and escalation processes that provide clear visibility into performance and constraints. Ensure manufacturing execution complies with engineering documentation, configuration control, product traceability, workmanship standards, and applicable AS9100, ISO 9001, and MIL-STD requirements. Support implementation and continuous improvement of manufacturing systems including ISO, ERP/MRP, MES, QMS, and WMS systems and standards. Develop workforce strategies including hiring, onboarding, qualification, cross-training, succession planning, and frontline leadership development. Manage production budgets and support capital equipment, facility, and manufacturing infrastructure planning. Build and maintain a culture of accountability, quality, safety, operational discipline, and continuous improvement while supporting critical production milestones as needed.

5+ years of experience in aerospace, defense, aviation, automotive, or another high-reliability manufacturing environment, with 3+ years of progressive manufacturing leadership experience . Demonstrated ability to develop frontline leaders and build high-performing manufacturing teams in a fast-paced, evolving production environment. Experience