Director, UAV Operations & New Facility Build

Elbit Systems of America, LLC; Charleston (SC); Hybrid; USD 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

Elbit Systems of America, LLC seeks a Senior Director of Operations to lead the design, construction, commissioning, and scaled production of a new manufacturing facility focused on Class 3 UAVs and air-launched munitions.

The role requires 10+ years in defense manufacturing, expertise in energetic materials handling, and the ability to obtain a U.S. security clearance. Remote planning then full on-site operation with international travel will be involved.

Qualifications

• 10+ years in defense/manufacturing leadership roles
• Experience managing greenfield or major brownfield factory construction
• Knowledge of Mil-Spec, explosives safety, hazardous waste disposal
• Ability to obtain and hold a U.S. Department of War Secret security clearance

Responsibilities

• Serve as senior operations interface to Business Units and Programs
• Provide strategic operational leadership for major organization segments
• Direct Operations’ contributions to programs including cost, schedule, quality
• Oversee creation, approval and execution of Operations program plans and capacity assessments
• Lead and ensure New Product Introduction requirements within proposals and manufacturing readiness
• Manage Production Control account execution to meet budget and schedule
• Oversee transition of mature products into new/expanded facilities
• Provide executive-level leadership in facility strategy and CapEx management
• Drive day-to-day operational performance across multiple lines
• Ensure OSHA PSM, ATF/FEL, EHS regulations compliance; lead audits and CAPA
• Own plant safety culture and SOPs for hazardous materials
• Lead workforce strategy and development of high-performance teams
• Direct continuous improvement initiatives using Lean/Six Sigma
• Build executive relationships with customers, regulators, defense partners
• Benchmark industry practices and justify future investments

Skills

UAVs & missiles

Leadership

Defense industry

Program management

Regulatory compliance

Security clearance readiness

Cross-functional leadership

Earned Value Management

Education

Bachelor in Mechanical/Industrial/Chemical Engineering

Master preferred

Job description

Elbit Systems of America, LLC seeks a Senior Director of Operations to lead the design, construction, commissioning, and scaled production of a new manufacturing facility focused on Class 3 UAVs and air-launched munitions.

The role requires 10+ years in defense manufacturing, expertise in energetic materials handling, and the ability to obtain a U.S. security clearance. Remote planning then full on-site operation with international travel will be involved.