ABOUT THE TEAMThe Manufacturing Operations Team plays a vital role in driving operational excellence and delivering high-quality products that support Anduril's mission of advancing defense capabilities.
ABOUT THE JOBWe are seeking a Manufacturing Optimization Manager to drive continuous improvement and operational excellence across our manufacturing sites in the US. This role will work closely with senior manufacturing leadership to implement and sustain lean manufacturing systems, coach frontline leaders, and resolve operational challenges to enhance efficiency, quality, and throughput.
The ideal candidate will have a strong background in manufacturing operations and lean methodologies, with proven experience leading teams and implementing structured problem-solving approaches. You will be responsible for managing day-to-day shop floor operations, developing group leaders and supervisors, and building sustainable systems that drive long-term performance improvements. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced manufacturing professional ready to make an impact in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.
A successful candidate will be expected to work out of Columbus, OH. Based on eligibility, relocation assistance may be available.
Travel up to 50% may be required for training, cross-site collaboration, or supporting continuous improvement initiatives at other Anduril facilities.
WHAT YOU'LL DO- Establish a scalable operating system (tiered accountability, daily management, KPI trees, visual management) aligned to safety, quality, delivery, and cost
- Strengthen cross-functional execution by integrating Operations, Quality, Manufacturing Engineering, Supply Chain, and Test into shared problem-solving and prioritized action plans
- Standardize processes and work content to reduce variation, improve first-pass yield, and enable predictable staffing models and flexible labor deployment
- Drive continuous improvement using structured problem solving (A3/8D), waste elimination, and targeted kaizen to improve flow and performance
- Lead rapid triage on critical constraints and escapes across all Anduril facilities-stabilize safety/quality events, throughput losses, and schedule risks using standard escalation and containment playbooks
- Coach and develop Managers, Supervisors and Team Leaders through daily Gemba, leader standard work, and structured feedback
- Capture and deploy best practices across lines/cells/sites via playbooks, standard work libraries, and replication mechanisms with clear ownership and audit cadence
- Develop practical tools and structures (dashboards, hour-by-hour boards, problem queues, skills boards) that improve visibility, prioritization, and decision speed
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS- 5+ years of experience in manufacturing and production operations
- 2+ years in a supervisor or production operations lead/manager role in a high-volume production environment
- A full understanding of the product life cycle (NPI to scaled production), LEAN manufacturing principles, and change management (ECOs)
- Can interpret technical documentation (mechanical drawings, work instructions, building plans, equipment specs, electrical schematics, etc.)
- Extremely reliable, organized and detail-oriented with excellent verbal & written communication skills
- Passion for employee development and enjoy the process of training and developing both new hires and veteran production staff
- Proven skills in both process and equipment troubleshooting, allowing you to easily adapt to constantly changing production environments
- Experience supporting process development
- Knowledge of 5S, lean manufacturing or Six Sigma principles
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Proficient with MS Office programs (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Project)
- Eligible to obtain and maintain an active U.S. Secret security clearance
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS- Aircraft new product introduction (NPI) experience
- Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a technical field (engineering, business, or applied science)
- Lean six sigma green belt certified
- Working knowledge of AS9100 standards and OSHA laws
- Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Top Secret Security Clearance
- Experience in small electronic assembly and drones a plus
- Ability to develop cross functional relationships as a well-respected, trusted partner
US Salary Range
$99,000-$131,000 USD
The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offer may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and/or training, critical skills, and/or business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in the majority of full time offers; and are considered part of Anduril's total compensation package. Additionally, Anduril offers top-tier benefits for full-time employees, including:
BenefitsAt Anduril, we invest in our people. Our comprehensive, competitive benefits package (available at little to no cost to employees) ensures you're supported in health, recovery, and whatever comes next. For more information, Explore Our Benefits.
