Production Operations Manager in San Diego, California at Firestorm

Firestorm Labs is seeking a Production Operations Manager to join our growing team in San Diego. At Firestorm Labs, we are building the future of distributed, mission-adaptive airpower for the modern warfighter. You will play a critical leadership role responsible for overseeing day-to-day manufacturing operations and ensuring our production runs efficiently, safely, and in full alignment with quality and delivery expectations. You will also be a hands-on leader who thrives in a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and technical excellence, with the ability to manage complex build processes that integrate both hardware and software steps. You will collaborate closely with Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, and New Product Introduction teams to ensure that production capabilities align with evolving technical requirements and volume goals. Your work will directly influence Firestorm's ability to scale efficiently, maintain product reliability, and ensure mission readiness across all platforms. What You'll Do

• Oversee daily manufacturing operations, including production scheduling, resource allocation, and workflow management to meet delivery targets.
• Lead and manage complex build processes that incorporate integrated hardware and software steps, ensuring procedures are followed, documented, and continuously improved.
• Partner with Engineering, Quality, and Supply Chain teams to resolve technical issues, drive corrective actions, and support new product introductions.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and use data to identify trends, address gaps, and report on operational performance to senior leadership.
• Build and develop a high-performing team by setting clear expectations, providing coaching, and fostering a respectful and inclusive workplace culture.
• Ensure compliance with AS9100 and other applicable aerospace quality and regulatory standards and enforce all safety policies to maintain a safe working environment.
• Support and reinforce a culture of quality by contributing to the implementation and sustainment of 5S, Lean, and continuous improvement methodologies across the production floor.
• Partner with supply chain and procurement teams to support inventory management processes, helping maintain material availability and minimize disruptions to production.
• Exhibit problem-solving, communication, and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Lead cross-functional teams and collaborate effectively across Engineering, Quality, and Supply Chain departments.
• Communicate and present technical data and analysis to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Perform other duties as needed

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Business, or a related field; equivalent experience will be considered.
• U.S. Citizenship required due to ITAR regulations, with the ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance.
• 5+ years of operations or manufacturing management experience, preferably in aerospace, defense, or a similarly regulated industry.
• Experience managing complex build processes involving both hardware and software components. (i.e. cables, PCBA assemblies and electromechanical parts)
• Experience with QMS AS9100
• Experience with Continuous Improvement (CI) methodologies and tools
• Experience interfacing with supply chain and procurement functions to maintain material flow and support production demands.
• Experience with Microsoft Office 365 (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint)

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, or a related discipline.
• Technical aptitude related to drone or UAV systems, including familiarity with propulsion, avionics, or airframe assembly sufficient to lead and support a skilled production team.
• Experience with ERP systems (e.g., Costpoint) and production management tools.
• Experience with Lean, Six Sigma, ACE, CORE, 5S or equivalent CI tools and methodologies
• Prior experience in an early-stage, high-growth tech or hardware startup environment.
• Ability to influence change and drive operational improvements as business needs and production volumes scale.
• Experience managing complex, fast-paced operations in a dynamic environment

Work Environment

• This position is working on-site at our San Diego, CA headquarters
• We welcome candidates who are local or open to relocating; relocation assistance is available and may be included in the offer package where appropriate.
• PPE is provided; adherence to all safety protocols and environmental controls is mandatory.
• Frequent travel will be required for this role; ability to travel up to 40% of the time.

This position typically operates in a standard office setting and manufacturing environment. This role requires use of standard office equipment and the physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach and move about regularly throughout the day. Must have manual dexterity to operate standard office equipment. Compensation U.S. Range: $130-160k 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. Who We Are At Firestorm, we’re on a mission to revolutionize how defense solutions are designed and delivered. Our goal is to empower U.S. ally nations to effectively deter aggressors — regardless of their defense budget — through innovative, cost-efficient technologies. We call this vision “democratized deterrence.” As a VC-backed company at the intersection of defense and Silicon Valley, we’re pioneering the development of mission-adaptable aerial vehicles that put power back into the hands of operators. By prioritizing operator effectiveness, we’re pioneering a new era of aerial vehicle design. We aim to upend the traditional defense procurement model by delivering world-class capabilities at a fraction of the usual cost. Join us at Firestorm as we redefine defense procurement, making cutting-edge technology accessible to all at a fraction of the cost. Benefits & Perks Our 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 July & 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.

Export Control Compliance To conform to U.S. government export control regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR), you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce. Equal Opportunity Statement Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process. Firestorm is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at careers@launchfirestorm.com so we can provide the support you need.