Engine Manufacturing Supervisor

Estes Industries, LLC; Penrose (CO); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Estes Industries, in Penrose, Colorado, seeks an experienced Engine Manufacturing Supervisor to lead daily operations in our model rocket engine plant. You will drive safe, efficient production, maintain high quality, and ensure regulatory compliance while developing a high‑performing production team.

The ideal candidate brings hands‑on leadership in manufacturing, strong scheduling and problem‑ solving capabilities, and a commitment to safety in a regulated environment.

Qualifications

• 3+ years in a manufacturing environment.
• 1+ years supervisory or team leadership experience.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, scheduling, and quality control.
• Commitment to workplace safety and regulatory compliance.
• Strong organizational, problem‑solving, and communication skills.
• Hands‑on production environment experience.
• Proficiency with basic computer applications and manufacturing reporting systems.
• Background check for explosives licensing per state requirements.

Responsibilities

• Supervise daily engine manufacturing operations to meet production schedules, quality standards, and cost targets.
• Coordinate staffing, equipment, and materials to maximize productivity and minimize downtime.
• Monitor production performance, identify bottlenecks, and implement process improvements.
• Collaborate with maintenance, engineering, quality, and planning teams to resolve production issues.
• Maintain accurate production records, inventory transactions, and operational reporting.
• Lead, train, and develop production employees with coaching and performance reviews.

Skills

Manufacturing operations

Supervision

Safety & compliance

Communication

Problem solving

Team leadership

Education

Technical degree or certifications

Tools

Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central

Job description

Engine Manufacturing Supervisor

Estes Industries | Penrose, Colorado

Department: Engine Manufacturing

Employment Type: Full‑Time

Reports To: Manufacturing Manager

Position Summary

Estes Industries is seeking an experienced Manufacturing Supervisor to lead daily operations in our model rocket engine manufacturing facility. This position is responsible for ensuring safe, efficient, and consistent production while maintaining high standards of product quality and regulatory compliance.

The ideal candidate is a hands‑on leader with experience in manufacturing operations, employee supervision, and continuous improvement. This role requires a strong commitment to safety, attention to detail, and the ability to develop and motivate a production team.

Key Responsibilities

Production Management

• Supervise daily engine manufacturing operations to meet production schedules, quality standards, and cost targets.
• Coordinate staffing, equipment, and materials to maximize productivity and minimize downtime.
• Monitor production performance, identify bottlenecks, and implement process improvements.
• Collaborate with maintenance, engineering, quality, and planning teams to resolve production issues.
• Maintain accurate production records, inventory transactions, and operational reporting.

Safety & Compliance

• Promote a safety‑first culture in a manufacturing environment involving energetic materials.
• Ensure employees follow established safety procedures, operating instructions, and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Conduct routine safety inspections, identify hazards, and implement corrective actions.
• Participate in incident investigations and support preventive measures.
• Ensure employees receive appropriate safety training and follow established procedures for handling energetic materials.

Quality & Continuous Improvement

• Ensure manufacturing processes consistently meet established product specifications and quality requirements.
• Monitor scrap, rework, and rejection rates and lead efforts to reduce defects.
• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and increase production capacity.
• Support implementation of standardized work, preventive maintenance, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Partner with engineering and quality teams to address recurring manufacturing issues.

Team Leadership

• Lead, train, and develop production employees, including team leads and machine operators.
• Establish clear performance expectations and provide regular coaching and feedback.
• Manage employee scheduling, attendance, performance evaluations, and training.
• Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, safety, and continuous improvement.
• Identify opportunities for employee cross‑training and skill development.

Qualifications

Required

• 3+ years of experience in a manufacturing environment.
• 1+ years of supervisory or team leadership experience.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, production scheduling, and quality control.
• Demonstrated commitment to workplace safety and regulatory compliance.
• Strong organizational, problem‑solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a hands‑on production environment.
• Proficiency with basic computer applications and manufacturing reporting systems.
• The candidate selected for this position will be required to undergo a thorough background check in order to become licensed with the State of Colorado Explosives Board, The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, and the Department of Homeland Security. Any job offer made will be contingent upon the results of this background check and the ability to obtain the required licenses.

Preferred

• Experience in energetic materials, aerospace, defense, chemical manufacturing, or other regulated manufacturing environments.
• Familiarity with OSHA requirements, process safety, and hazardous materials handling.
• Experience implementing Lean manufacturing, 5S, or other continuous improvement practices.
• Experience with ERP or manufacturing management systems, particularly Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central.
• Technical degree or relevant manufacturing certifications.

About Estes Industries

Estes Industries is a leading manufacturer of model rockets and rocket engines, inspiring generations of students, hobbyists, and aerospace enthusiasts. Our manufacturing operations combine decades of experience with a commitment to safety, quality, and innovation.

We are looking for individuals who take pride in manufacturing excellence and want to contribute to the continued success of an iconic American aerospace brand.

Estes Industries is an Equal Opportunity Employer.