Aerospace Operations Manager — Lean, Safe, 9/80 Schedule

Karman Space & Defense; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health Insurance

401(k) Match

Paid Time Off

HSA

FSA

Life Insurance

Disability Insurance

Tuition Reimbursement

Job summary

Karman Space & Defense is seeking an Operations Manager to lead manufacturing value streams, coordinate quality assurance, and drive safe, high‑quality, cost‑effective production aligned with program needs. You will guide teams, manage budgets, and implement lean practices (6S), ERP-based workflows, and continuous improvement initiatives to strengthen delivery, safety, and organizational growth.

The role requires a Bachelor's in business/engineering and at least 3 years of related experience;

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration or equivalent.
• Minimum of 3 years of related experience.
• Proficient with ERP systems such as Epicor, MaintainX and Machine Metrics.
• Strong understanding of aerospace quality systems including AS9100 and OSHA compliance.
• Demonstrated success leading lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Exceptional communication, leadership, and team-building skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversees and coordinates operational activities across manufacturing value streams.
• Maintains a safe and compliant working environment.
• Builds and develops strong teams to support future leadership needs.
• Leads cross-functional efforts to meet productivity, quality, delivery, and cost objectives.
• Monitors and manages operational budgets, labor utilization, and resource planning.
• Manages personnel performance, disciplinary actions, and employee evaluations.
• Ensures staff receive appropriate training and effective work management.
• Promotes a culture of continuous improvement across operations.
• Implements and sustains lean manufacturing practices, including 6S.
• Recommends resource, space, and capability enhancements and tracks related capital projects.

Skills

ERP systems

MaintainX

Machine Metrics

AS9100

OSHA compliance

Lean manufacturing

Leadership

Communication

Team building

Education

Bachelor’s degree in business administration or equivalent

Master’s degree

Tools

Epicor ERP

MaintainX

Machine Metrics

Job description

Karman Space & Defense is seeking an Operations Manager to lead manufacturing value streams, coordinate quality assurance, and drive safe, high‑quality, cost‑effective production aligned with program needs. You will guide teams, manage budgets, and implement lean practices (6S), ERP-based workflows, and continuous improvement initiatives to strengthen delivery, safety, and organizational growth.

The role requires a Bachelor's in business/engineering and at least 3 years of related experience;