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Firestorm · 1 day ago

Director of Manufacturing Engineering, NPI

San Diego, CA

Full-time

Onsite

Director/Executive

$186K/yr - $213K/yr

10+ years exp

Firestorm is a VC-backed company focused on revolutionizing defense solutions through innovative technologies. They are seeking a strategic Director of Manufacturing Engineering to lead New Product Introduction activities and drive operational excellence in manufacturing processes to support product launches and production ramp goals.

AerospaceArtificial Intelligence (AI)Drones

No H1B

Security Clearance Required

U.S. Citizen Only

Responsibilities

Lead cross-functional collaboration for New Product Introduction activities to ensure smooth transition to Low-Rate Initial Production and subsequent production ramp

Identify resource needs across people, process, structure, and systems, and build the team and infrastructure required for successful NPI execution

Maintain awareness of project milestones and partner with Program Management to ensure NPI activities stay aligned to scope, budget, and schedule

Analyze current engineering and production processes, workflows, and facility layouts to identify opportunities for improved NPI flows and production process enhancements

Evaluate current test processes and coordinate with Engineering and Software teams to implement scalable production-grade test coverage and methods

Develop and implement process improvements that reduce costs, increase throughput, and enhance quality and safety

Conduct time and motion studies to establish standard work procedures and optimize labor efficiency

Design and optimize systems by identifying opportunities for automation and integrating workers, machines, materials, information, and energy

Analyze production volumes and develop scalable planning models that optimize inventory control, logistics, and supply chain operations

Drive continuous improvement through Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and related methodologies

Collaborate with Production, Quality, Engineering, and Logistics to ensure process alignment and support operational goals

Develop and maintain documentation for procedures, process flows, and work instructions

Establish and monitor key performance indicators to measure performance and support data-driven decision making

Qualification

New Product IntroductionLean ManufacturingSix SigmaIndustrial EngineeringData analysis toolsAutoCADCostpoint ERPArena PLMSelf-directedLearn quicklyCommunicationCross-functional collaboration

Required

Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or a related engineering discipline

10+ years of progressive experience in industrial engineering, manufacturing, or a related technical field

U.S. Citizenship required due to ITAR regulations, with the ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance

Expertise in New Product Introduction and Product Lifecycle Change Management processes

Proficiency with data analysis tools and industrial engineering software such as AutoCAD, simulation tools, and Excel

Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement practices

Experience with Engineering Change processes from request through implementation

Experience working with drawings and engineering or manufacturing Bills of Materials

Proven track record applying Lean and Six Sigma methodologies to reduce waste in manufacturing environments

Basic CAD design experience with preference for floor layout and small tooling

Experience in materials management including warehousing, transportation, and logistics

Strong understanding of engineering concepts and principles with demonstrable practical application

Ability to quickly learn and apply new concepts in a dynamic environment while meeting established timelines

Self-directed and comfortable operating in fast-paced, cross-functional settings

Familiarity with FAR, DFARS, ITAR, and U.S. Government acquisition regulations

Ability to learn quickly, apply new concepts accurately, and manage evolving priorities

Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint)

Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration abilities

Clear and professional communication with technical and non-technical users

Preferred

12+ years of progressive experience in industrial engineering, manufacturing, or a related technical field

Master's degree in Industrial Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related discipline

Expertise in complex assembly methods and processes. Experience in aerospace, additive manufacturing, or automation is beneficial

Experience with Costpoint ERP and Arena PLM

Prior experience in an early-stage, high-growth tech or hardware startup environment

Direct experience in additive manufacturing, automation and implementing production test environments, including in-process and end-of-line test coverage

Ability to influence change and adapt processes as business needs evolve

Demonstrated ability to manage complex, fast-paced operations in a dynamic environment

Benefits

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.