Northrop Grumman

Manager 3 - Manufacturing & Logistics

Northrop Grumman$125K — $187K *
Manufacturing & Automotive
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree and 9 years of relevant experience in manufacturing or logistics, or a Master's degree with 7 years of experience.
  • 5 years of management or leadership experience.
  • Proficiency in production management systems (ERP/MES) and materials/logistics processes.
  • Familiarity with Microsoft Office applications.
  • Understanding of artificial intelligence applications in manufacturing.
  • Ability to obtain a Secret security clearance.

Responsibilities

  • Oversee daily production operations and ensure adherence to schedules.
  • Translate demand requirements into actionable shop floor plans.
  • Adjust production plans in response to emerging issues.
  • Monitor KPIs for safety, quality, delivery, and cost performance.
  • Apply lean manufacturing principles to enhance operational efficiency.
  • Lead teams in root cause analysis to address production issues.
  • Manage materials planning and logistics functions for production readiness.

Benefits

  • Health Plan
  • Savings Plan
  • Paid Time Off
  • Education Assistance
  • Training and Development
  • 9/80 Work Schedule where available
Full Job Description
RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance available

CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: No

CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret

TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescription

We are looking for you to join our team as a Manager 3 - Manufacturing & Logistics to support production and manufacturing operations at our Central Virginia manufacturing facilities.

The Manager 3 - Manufacturing & Logistics is a senior operations leader responsible for daily production and materials/logistics operations across our Central Virginia manufacturing sites, with primary presence in Charlottesville and regular engagement in Waynesboro. This role ensures safe, efficient, and high-quality production; leads the manufacturing management team; and directly oversees the materials and logistics organization supporting both facilities.

The leader partners closely with cross-functional teams (e.g. Engineering, Quality, Programs, Global Supply Chain) to achieve safety, quality, delivery, and cost objectives while driving continuous improvement and operational readiness.

What You'll Get to Do:

Production Leadership & Execution
  • Own daily production operations across Charlottesville and Waynesboro, ensuring adherence to production schedules and customer commitments.
  • Translate program and demand requirements into executable shop floor plans; balance capacity, labor, and material availability.
  • Adjust plans to address change orders, constraints, or emergent issues while maintaining safety, quality, cost and delivery performance.


Operational Excellence & Performance Management
  • Monitor and drive KPIs including Safety, Quality, Delivery, Cost, and productivity across both sites. Examples of KPIs: Lost workdays, Rework, First Time Yield, On Time to Contract, Health of WIP, Utilization, Total OH Ratio, Performance to Standard Work.
  • Apply lean manufacturing principles (e.g., 5S, standard work, visual management) to improve flow, reduce waste, and optimize throughput.
  • Lead teams through structured problem solving and root cause analyses to eliminate recurring issues in production operations and materials/logistics.


Materials & Logistics Management
  • Provide direct leadership for the Materials & Logistics teams supporting Charlottesville and Waynesboro.
  • Own material planning and coordination with Supply Chain/Procurement to ensure production readiness and minimal disruptions.
  • Oversee inventory control, cycle counting, warehousing, kitting, and point-of-use material delivery to work cells.
  • Lead shipping/receiving operations and logistics processes to support on-time delivery, inventory turns, and past-due reduction.
  • Implement and sustain standards, processes, and digital tools for materials handling, traceability, and logistics performance.


Quality, Compliance & Readiness
  • Ensure products meet or exceed internal and external quality requirements; support and drive corrective and preventive actions.
  • Support internal and external audits and ensure compliance with manufacturing workmanship standards and regulatory requirements.
  • Champion standardization of processes and documentation across sites to support repeatable, compliant operations.


Team Leadership & Culture
  • Lead and develop manufacturing supervisors, materials/logistics leaders, and production teams across Central Virginia.
  • Responsible for senior management of non-exempt manufacturing personnel. Ensuring adherence and accountability to work schedules and employee handbook (or equivalent) standards.
  • Recruit, train, and coach staff; set clear goals and expectations and drive accountability and performance.
  • Foster a culture of safety, ownership, and continuous improvement, with a clear "standard that must be met" coupled with appropriate support.
  • Communicate effectively with frontline staff, peers, and senior leadership.


Budgeting, Reporting & Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Develop and manage departmental budgets; control labor, material, and overhead costs while meeting business objectives.
  • Prepare and present performance reports, variance analyses, and improvement plans to senior management.
  • Collaborate with Quality, Engineering, Supply Chain, EH&S, Finance, and Program teams to support new product introductions, process changes, and manufacturing readiness.
  • Lead or support change management initiatives that impact production, materials/logistics processes, and site operations.


In addition, the Manager 3 - Manufacturing & Logistics should have:
  • Proven ability to balance support and coaching with maintaining high operational standards.
  • Proficiency with production management systems (e.g., ERP/MES) and materials/logistics processes.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with proven effectiveness collaborating across functional areas and levels of the organization.
  • Understanding of manufacturing and production concepts and their application to day-to-day operations.
  • Ability to make decisions that impact the organization's credibility, operations, and services.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate diverse teams, set priorities, resolve conflicts, and drive accountability.


Basic Qualifications for the Manager 3 - Manufacturing & Logistics:
  • Bachelor's degree and a minimum of nine (9) years of relevant experience in manufacturing/production, assembly, engineering and/or logistics OR a Master's degree with seven (7) years of relevant experience in manufacturing/production, assembly, engineering and/or logistics.
  • At least five (5) years of experience in management/leadership of people and/or processes.
  • Experience with production management systems (e.g., ERP/MES) and materials/logistics processes.
  • Experience with Microsoft Office applications (Outlook, Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
  • Working knowledge of artificial intelligence and how it could be used in a manufacturing environment.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret clearance
  • US Citizenship is required.


Preferred Qualifications:
  • Ten (10) years of direct leadership experience, including at least five (5) years managing managers or multi-disciplinary teams.
  • Bachelor's degree in a technical or business discipline (e.g., mechanical, electrical, industrial engineering, operations management).
  • Manufacturing, production, or engineering experience in electronics and/or assembly/test.
  • Experience leading materials/logistics organizations and integrating materials planning with production operations.
  • Knowledge of Constraint Theory, Lean Manufacturing, 5S, and continuous improvement methodologies.
  • Familiarity with Manufacturing Workmanship Standards (e.g., IPC-A-610, IPC-WHMA-A-620, IPC-J-STD-001).
  • Experience working across functional organizations and multiple sites.
  • Quality Management experience, particularly in electronics or defense manufacturing environments.
  • Experience with digital tools to support shop floor execution, materials management, and KPI visibility.
  • Active Secret clearance.


What We Can Offer You:

Northrop Grumman provides a comprehensive benefits package and a work environment which encourages your growth and supports the mutual success of our people and our company. Northrop Grumman benefits give you the flexibility and control to choose the benefits that make the most sense for you and your family.

Your benefits will include the following: Health Plan, Savings Plan, Paid Time Off and Additional Benefits including Education Assistance, Training and Development, 9/80 Work Schedule (where available), and much more!

Primary Level Salary Range: $125,300.00 - $187,900.00

The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.

Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.

The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.

About Northrop Grumman

Northrop Grumman is a security company that provides systems, products, and solutions in aerospace, electronics, information systems, shipbuilding, and technical services to government and commercial customers. They design, develop, and build everything from aircraft and spacecraft to cyber security systems. The company is involved in a wide range of defense and technology projects, including the development of aircraft, space systems, cybersecurity solutions, and advanced electronics.

Northrop Grumman Careers

Join the elite team at Northrop Grumman, a leading global security company providing innovative systems, products, and solutions in autonomous systems, cyber, C4ISR, space, strike, and logistics and modernization to customers worldwide. There has never been a more exciting time to advance your career with Northrop Grumman.

Work You’ll Do

At Northrop Grumman, your work will redefine the edges of technology and create a safer future. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity, and bringing your whole self to work. Our team is at the forefront of innovation, collaborating to make the impossible, possible.

Explore Job Opportunities and Growth

Whether you’re looking for an internship, an entry-level position, or a spot for seasoned professionals, Northrop Grumman offers a variety of career paths that encourage growth and development. Explore job opportunities that elevate your skills, and push your career to the next level.

Join Our Diverse and Inclusive Team

Diversity and inclusion are the foundations of our culture. Northrop Grumman is committed to building a diverse team that fosters an inclusive environment, where every team member is valued for their unique perspectives and contributions. We believe that diversity fuels innovation.

Professional Development and Benefits

Northrop Grumman is dedicated to your professional and personal growth. We offer unparalleled benefits, including comprehensive health coverage, generous time off, and family care resources. Additionally, we provide extensive leadership and diversity training to help you craft your career path.

Networking and Leadership

Enhance your career through our robust networking opportunities. Connect with leaders and peers within Northrop Grumman through various events, mentorship programs, and professional groups. Our leadership is deeply invested in nurturing talent and guiding team members through their career journey.

Innovation in Technology

Drive technological breakthroughs with a company at the cutting edge of innovation. Northrop Grumman is a place where you can work on projects that push the boundaries of what is possible.

How to Apply

Ready to join our team? Check out the open positions on our Careers page. Tailor your resume to highlight your relevant skills and experiences. Prepare for your interview with us by researching our projects and understanding our company’s mission and values.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with the latest news, job openings, and insider tips by subscribing to our careers blog. Personalize your experience by joining our community and setting up job alert emails tailored to your career preferences.

Northrop Grumman Jobs

Discover the impact you can make with a career at Northrop Grumman. We are actively hiring and looking for passionate, curious, and solution-driven team players. Search Northrop Grumman jobs today and find where your expertise is needed most. Join Northrop Grumman, and be part of a team that is dedicated to making a difference, not only within the company but in the world at large. Your journey to building a rewarding career starts here.
Learn more about Northrop Grumman
Size
88,000 employees
Market Cap
$82.7 billion
Industry
Net Income
$3.1 billion
Founded
1939
5 Year Trend
+7.6%
Revenue
$36.7 billion
NASDAQ

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at Northrop Grumman

More Manufacturing & Automotive Jobs

Find similar Manager 3 - Manufacturing & Logistics jobs: