Overview

Element is seeking a Department Manager (Planning & Engineering) to lead planning, scheduling, and program execution for aerospace testing operations in Huntington Beach. Guided by our mission of "Making tomorrow safer than today," this role enables safe, accurate, and on time delivery of complex test programs. You'll lead a team of planners and collaborate cross functionally with Engineering, Lab Operations, Sales, and Quality to translate customer requirements into executable plans in a fast paced, high impact environment.

Salary: $95,000 - $115,000/yr DOE

Responsibilities

Planning & Scheduling Leadership

• Lead the planning function to ensure efficient scheduling, resource allocation, and on-time execution of customer work.
• Own end-to-end planning processes from work order creation through project completion.
• Monitor workflow, capacity, and work-in-process (WIP) to proactively identify and resolve bottlenecks.
• Develop and maintain planning standards, scheduling disciplines, and workload balancing practices.
• Partner with operations leadership to align capacity, priorities, and customer commitments.
• Establish planning metrics and performance indicators focused on schedule adherence, turnaround time, throughput, and delivery performance.

Operational Excellence & Process Improvement

• Lead continuous improvement initiatives focused on improving efficiency, reducing cycle times, and enhancing customer delivery performance.
• Evaluate existing workflows and business processes to identify opportunities for simplification, standardization, and automation.
• Develop business cases and implementation plans for operational and system improvements.
• Facilitate cross-functional improvement projects that drive measurable gains in productivity, quality, and operational performance.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement and accountability throughout the organization.
• Utilize Lean and operational excellence principles to eliminate waste and improve process effectiveness.

Systems & Technology Optimization

• Serve as the business lead for planning-related system enhancements and process automation initiatives.
• Partner with IT and business stakeholders to identify, prioritize, and implement technology solutions that improve operational effectiveness.
• Drive adoption and optimization of ERP, LIMS, scheduling, reporting, and workflow management systems.
• Develop reporting tools, dashboards, and performance metrics that improve visibility and decision-making.
• Ensure business processes are supported by scalable systems and data-driven workflows.

Leadership & Team Development

• Lead, coach, and develop planning personnel to support business objectives and employee growth.
• Establish clear expectations and accountability for safety, quality, delivery, and customer service.
• Conduct performance reviews, succession planning, and employee development activities.
• Manage staffing levels, workload distribution, scheduling, and timekeeping responsibilities.
• Foster collaboration across departments and promote a positive, solutions-oriented culture..

Skills / Qualifications
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Materials, Aerospace, Industrial, or related).
• 3-5 years of people management experience in laboratory testing, aerospace manufacturing, or a closely related technical environment.
• Strong proficiency with LIMS/ERP/MRP and MS Office; capable with basic algebra/geometry for planning and tolerance/measurement context.
• Proven ability to read and interpret test specifications, drawings, and test plans; can translate requirements into executable work orders and schedules.
• Demonstrated experience coordinating cross-functional teams and communicating effectively with both technical and customer stakeholders.
• Track record of delivering on safety, quality, and schedule commitments in a fast-paced environment.

Physical & Work Environment
• On-site lab/manufacturing setting with appropriate PPE; occasional lifting up to 25 lbs.
• Standing/walking in lab areas; frequent computer work; occasional off-shift or weekend support to meet critical schedules.