Application close date:
Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the requisition is closed.
This role is part of Blue Origin Operations, which is comprised of Integrated Supply Chain, Test Operations, Safety, Quality, and Mission Assurance. This includes Manufacturing and Supply Chain support across all Blue Origin facilities.
The Shift Lead for Composite Manufacturing is responsible for overseeing trim and drill operations for composite Payload Fairings (PLF) supporting the New Glenn program. This role leads a team of technicians to ensure safe, high-quality, and on-schedule execution of manufacturing activities while driving continuous improvement in cost, quality, delivery, and team performance.
Key Responsibilities:- Lead and supervise daily trim and drill operations for composite Payload Fairing structures (PLF).
- Assign and coordinate technician work activities to meet production schedules and milestones.
- Ensure adherence to engineering specifications, work instructions, and quality standards.
- Monitor and drive performance across cost, quality, and schedule (CQS) metrics.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for shift-level production issues, including escalation and resolution.
- Promote and enforce a strong safety culture and compliance with all safety procedures.
- Support first article builds, process validation, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Coordinate with cross-functional teams (Engineering, Quality, Planning, Supply Chain) to resolve issues and maintain workflow.
- Track labor hours, material usage, and productivity to ensure cost efficiency.
- Provide coaching, mentoring, and performance feedback to technicians.
- Maintain accurate production records, logs, and shift reports.
Daily Tasks Include (but are not limited to):- Conduct shift start-up meetings and communicate priorities, risks, and goals.
- Assign daily technician work scopes and adjust as needed based on production status.
- Oversee trim and drill operations, ensuring precision, tool control, and process compliance.
- Monitor part quality and support inspections to ensure conformance.
- Address non-conformances, troubleshoot issues, and implement corrective actions.
- Track progress against schedule and update leadership on status.
- Ensure proper staffing levels and support team development.
- Drive housekeeping and 5S standards on the production floor.
Basic Qualifications:- High school diploma or GED (Associate's or technical degree preferred).
- 5+ years of experience in composite manufacturing, aerospace structures, or similar field.
- 2+ years of leadership or team lead experience in a production environment.
- Experience with trim and drill operations on composite structures.
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, and work instructions.
Preferred Qualifications:- Experience with large aerospace composite structures or payload fairings.
- Familiarity with lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methods.
- Knowledge of nonconformance systems and root cause corrective action (RCCA).
- Experience working in a fast-paced, production-driven environment.
Key Competencies:- Leadership and team development
- Problem-solving and decision-making
- Attention to detail and quality focus
- Ability to manage multiple priorities under schedule pressure
- Strong communication and coordination
