Developmental Operations Manager

ABOUT THE TEAM

Anduril Rocket Motor Systems is seeking an accomplished Manager of Development Operations to oversee the development manufacturing activities of Rocket Motor Systems at our state-of-the-art facilities. In this strategic role, you will be instrumental in establishing, managing, and optimizing developmental operations processes for our cutting-edge rocket motor systems, ensuring top-tier quality and efficiency while preparing for the transition to full-rate production.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

• Embrace the ownership and leadership for the growth of developmental operations to include maturing processes, improving workflows, and defining systems in alignment with Anduril’s rigorous AS9100 quality management system, EHS systems, and drive efficiency improvements through continuous improvement efforts. Functions will include:
• Tooling design and fabrication
• Chemical manufacturing
• Testing
• Hardware integration
• Electrical Engineering Systems
• Managing a diverse organization of 50+ engineers, technicians, and operators across multiple shifts as well as weekends.
• Drive the strategic planning and execution of production schedules, ensuring timely delivery of rocket motor systems to meet customer requirements and contractual obligations.
• Implement best practices for lean manufacturing and continuous improvement to optimize production operations and reduce costs.
• Collaborate closely with engineering, quality assurance, supply chain, and program management teams to ensure alignment with operations capacity so as to deliver seamless integration of new products and technologies into the production line.
• Partner with the EHS team to develop and maintain a robust safety program, ensuring compliance with industry regulations and company policies to maintain a safe working environment.
• Manage and mentor a team of production leaders and supervisors, operators, and support staff, fostering a culture of excellence and accountability.
• Oversee professional development of the teams including succession planning, individual growth, and talent retention/acquisition
• Leverage ERP/MES capabilities to create detailed reports and analyses on production metrics, identifying trends and recommending solutions to enhance operational performance.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for all matters related to developmental operations, liaising with internal stakeholders and external partners.
• Oversee professional development of the teams including succession planning, individual growth, and talent retention/acquisition.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field; Master’s degree or MBA preferred.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in production or manufacturing management within the aerospace, defense, energetics, or related industry.
• Proven track record of successfully leading low rate production operations of highly hazardous materials with a focus on EHS, quality, efficiency, and scalability.
• Strong leadership skills with experience in team building, coaching, and performance management.
• In-depth knowledge of lean manufacturing principles, process improvement, and production planning.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and decision-making skills.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively at all levels of the organization and with external partners.
• U.S. Person status is required as this position needs to access export controlled data.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience with rocket motor systems or similar high-complexity defense products.
• Experience with managing teams of 25 or more individuals.
• 10 years of experience in production or manufacturing management within the aerospace, defense, energetics, or related industry
• Familiarity with AS9100 or similar quality management systems.
• Active security clearance or ability to obtain one.