Manufacturing Program ManagerLocation: San Antonio, TX
On-site, Full Time, Exempt.
Able to obtain Secret ClearanceSummary of PositionWe are seeking an experienced Manufacturing Program Manager to lead production, financial planning, coordination, and business development for our manufacturing operation. This role is critical to ensuring successful delivery of complex manufacturing programs while driving growth through new business acquisition.
Key ResponsibilitiesProgram Management & Financial Planning- Manage cost, schedule, and delivery performance for multiple concurrent build-to-print manufacturing jobs
- Develop and maintain program budgets, forecasts, and financial reports
- Monitor program profitability and implement corrective actions to maintain margin targets
- Create and manage integrated master schedules coordinating across inventory/receiving, assembly, and quality control functions
- Track program milestones and deliverables, ensuring on-time delivery
- Conduct regular program reviews with internal stakeholders and customers
- Identify and mitigate program risks related to cost, schedule, and technical performance
- Manage change orders and contract modifications with customers
Cross-Functional Leadership- Coordinate activities across our ~18 person team including inventory/receiving, technicians/assemblers, quality control, project coordinators, and estimators
- Serve as primary interface between customers and internal operations teams
- Facilitate communication and problem-solving across functional areas
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency and quality
Business Development- Identify and pursue new build-to-print manufacturing opportunities with defense prime contractors, USGOV and B2B customers
- Develop customer relationships and maintain strategic account plans
- Support proposal development and pricing strategies in collaboration with estimating team
- Participate in customer meetings, site visits, and capability presentations
- Monitor industry trends and competitive landscape in defense manufacturing sector
- Achieve annual new business bookings targets
Contract & Compliance Management- Ensure compliance with customer contract requirements and specifications
- Maintain awareness of relevant defense industry regulations (ITAR, DFARS, etc.)
- Support quality audits and customer inspections (AS9100)
- Manage customer documentation and reporting requirements
Required QualificationsEducation & Experience- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, Manufacturing, or related field
- Minimum 5-7 years of program management experience in manufacturing environment
- Experience managing build-to-print or contract manufacturing programs
- Proven track record working with defense prime contractors or aerospace customers
- Demonstrated success in business development and new customer acquisition
Technical Skills- Strong financial acumen with experience in cost accounting, budgeting, and forecasting
- Proficiency in program management tools and methodologies
- Understanding of manufacturing processes, quality systems, and supply chain management
- Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems
- Advanced Microsoft Office skills (Excel, Project, PowerPoint)
Core Competencies- Excellent communication and presentation skills
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
- Proven leadership and cross-functional team coordination
- Customer-focused mindset with relationship-building skills
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in fast-paced environment
- Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills
- Self-motivated with entrepreneurial drive
Preferred Qualifications- PMP (Project Management Professional) certification
- Experience with AS9100 or ISO 9001 quality management systems
- Knowledge of ITAR and defense contract regulations
- Existing relationships with defense prime contractors
- Experience in electronics, mechanical assembly, or precision manufacturing
- Familiarity with government contracting (FAR/DFARS)
