Are you a proven aerospace leader with a passion for operational excellence, engineering innovation, and team development? We are seeking a highly motivated Deputy Site Leader to serve as the trusted second-in-command for a growing aerospace and defense operation.
In this critical leadership position, you will partner directly with the Senior Vice President/General Manager to oversee site operations, drive strategic initiatives, and ensure the successful execution of engineering, manufacturing, and customer programs. This role offers a unique opportunity to influence business performance, develop high-performing teams, and prepare for future executive leadership responsibilities.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Leadership
- Partner with the Site Leader to manage day-to-day operations across the facility.
- Align engineering, manufacturing, electrical design, program management, and support functions toward common business objectives.
- Drive operational performance, efficiency, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Ensure projects are delivered on schedule, within budget, and to customer expectations.
Engineering & Technical Oversight
- Provide leadership and oversight across:
- Mechanical and product design
- Electrical design and controls
- Component manufacturing
- Engineering support services
- Promote innovation, technical excellence, and sound engineering practices.
- Resolve complex technical and operational challenges affecting customer programs.
Program & Customer Success
- Collaborate with Program Managers to ensure successful execution of customer contracts.
- Monitor resource allocation, project milestones, risks, and financial performance.
- Participate in customer reviews and executive-level communications.
- Support proposal development, customer visits, and business growth initiatives.
Manufacturing Excellence
- Lead efforts to enhance safety, quality, productivity, and cost performance.
- Champion Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement principles.
- Optimize production capacity and operational effectiveness.
People Leadership
- Coach, mentor, and develop managers and technical leaders.
- Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, innovation, and employee engagement.
- Support succession planning, talent development, workforce planning, and organizational growth.
Strategic Leadership
- Contribute to the development and execution of site strategy.
- Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and drive corrective actions when necessary.
- Lead strategic initiatives and special projects that support long-term business growth.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, Manufacturing, or a related technical field (or equivalent experience.
- 10+ years of progressive leadership experience within aerospace, defense, engineering, manufacturing, flight test, or related technical environments.
- Demonstrated success leading cross-functional organizations and complex customer programs.
- Strong understanding of:
- Engineering and product development
- Aerospace operations
- Program management systems and principles
- Industrial manufacturing, or high-mix/low-volume manufacturing operations
- Financial and resource planning
- Engineering design
- Exceptional communication, relationship-building, and decision-making skills.
- Must be U.S. citizen
- Must currently possess (or be able to obtain) a DoD security clearance (Secret level minimum)
Preferred Qualifications
- Master's Degree (MBA or Engineering discipline).
- Aerospace and Defense industry experience.
- Flight test operations experience.
- Experience with high-mix, low-volume manufacturing environments.
- Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma leadership experience.
Benefits and Perks:
- Industry-competitive compensation package
- Company performance-based bonus plan
- Equity stock-based compensation package
- Employer-funded comprehensive health, vision, and dental insurance for employees and dependents
- 401k with company match
- PTO & holiday pay
- Employer-funded life and disability insurance coverages
This position is subject to pre-employment background check.
