About the RoleThe Senior Operations Liaison leads integration between Engineering, Manufacturing, and the Program Office across multiple programs. This role owns production readiness from the program perspective. It drives resolution of cross-functional issues, leads production prioritization discussions, and makes sure engineering changes and manufacturing capacity support on-time delivery to defense customers. The Senior Liaison also mentors junior liaisons and helps set the processes used across the Program Office.
What You'll Do- Lead engineering-manufacturing integration across multiple programs and production lines
- Own production readiness assessments ahead of key milestones, deliveries, and customer events
- Lead production prioritization and line-loading recommendations to program and executive leadership, balancing delivery commitments, capacity, and engineering changes
- Drive resolution of complex cross-functional issues, and escalate with options and recommendations
- Assess the cost, schedule, and delivery impact of engineering changes (ECPs/ECOs) and support change board decisions
- Lead or support manufacturing readiness reviews (MRRs), production readiness reviews (PRRs), FAI, and customer acceptance events
- Partner with supply chain to identify and mitigate part shortages and supplier risks affecting production
- Establish and improve processes, metrics, and tools for engineering-manufacturing coordination
- Mentor and guide Engineering-Manufacturing Liaisons and support program managers on production matters
- Represent production status and risks in customer program reviews when needed
Required Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Aerospace, Manufacturing, Industrial) or related field
- 7+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering, production management, or engineering integration in aerospace or defense
- Demonstrated experience leading cross-functional teams through production ramp or rate production
- Strong understanding of configuration management, engineering change processes, and production planning
- Experience supporting defense programs, including FAI, acceptance testing, and DD250 or WAWF delivery processes
- Excellent communication skills, including briefing leadership and customers
- U.S. citizenship, as required for ITAR-controlled work and security clearance eligibility
Preferred Qualifications- Active Secret clearance preferred but not required
- Experience with UAS or aircraft production
- Familiarity with Manufacturing Readiness Levels (MRLs) and DoD acquisition milestones
- Lean Six Sigma Green or Black Belt preferred
- Experience with AS9100, ERP/MRP, and PLM systems
- Experience in a fast-paced startup or rapid-scaling production environment
Work EnvironmentBased at our Headquarters in San Diego, CA. We welcome candidates who are local or open to relocating; relocation assistance is available and may be included in the offer package where appropriate
CompensationUS Salary Range: $141,000 - $167,000 USD
The posted salary range reflects an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, education, certifications, specialized skills, geographic location, and business needs. Actual compensation may vary, and this range is subject to change as our compensation structure or market conditions evolve.
Benefits & PerksOur culture fosters collaboration, respect, and trust, empowering passionate people to do their best work. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth. In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees. Here are just a few ways that we show our appreciation:
- We offer comprehensive medical, dental, and visions plans
- 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals
- Equity grants for new hires
- Unlimited PTO
- Extremely generous company holiday calendar, including a holiday hiatus in November, & December
- Generous Parental Leave
- Lifestyle Spending Account
- FSA
- DCFSA
- HSA
- Hospital Indemnity insurance
- Critical Illness insurance
- Accident insurance
- Basic Life/AD&D, short-term and long-term disability insurance, 100% covered by Firestorm.Plus, the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your family
- Mental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more. Additional work-life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well
