General Manager

NewVac, an AAR Company; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 137,000 - 175,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and bonus package

Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, and vision

401(k) retirement plan with company match

Generous paid time off program

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

A specialized aerospace and defense manufacturer is seeking a General Manager to lead operations and drive growth. This role oversees manufacturing, engineering, and quality, ensuring mission-critical programs are executed flawlessly. Candidates should have over 10 years of leadership experience in aerospace, operational management skills, and a strong focus on compliance and quality. The anticipated salary range is $137,000 to $175,000 annually, coupled with a competitive benefits package and professional advancement opportunities.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of leadership experience in aerospace or defense.
• Experience with prime aerospace contractors or U.S. defense programs.
• Solid background in electromechanical assemblies, wire harnesses, or aerospace components.
• Demonstrated ability to scale manufacturing operations.

Responsibilities

• Lead all manufacturing and operational activities.
• Drive operational performance and on-time delivery.
• Implement lean manufacturing initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with AS9100, ITAR standards.
• Build, develop, and mentor a high-performing leadership team.

Skills

Leadership experience in aerospace

Operational leadership

Customer-oriented engagement

P&L management

Knowledge of aerospace quality systems

Job description

AAR OEM Supply-NewVac, which is a highly specialized aerospace and defense manufacturer producing mission-critical wire harnesses and cables. Our products support U.S. Government programs and leading aerospace prime contractors, including systems used in advanced fighter aircraft, naval launch systems, and precision targeting platforms. In these environments, failure is not an option. NewVac, has built a strong reputation for precision manufacturing, uncompromising quality, and deep engineering expertise in high-reliability connectivity solutions.

Located In Chatsworth, CA.

Description:

NewVac is seeking a General Manager to lead the company’s operations, growth strategy, and organizational development. This executive will oversee all functional areas, including manufacturing, engineering, quality, and program management.

The General Manager will be responsible for scaling operations, strengthening relationships with prime aerospace customers, and ensuring flawless execution of mission-critical defense programs. This is a hands-on leadership role suited for an experienced aerospace manufacturing executive who understands the rigor of defense contracting and high-reliability production environments.

What you will be responsible for:

• Lead all manufacturing and operational activities across production, engineering, quality, and supply chain.
• Drive operational performance, on-time delivery, and scalable production capabilities.
• Implement lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency and quality.
• Serve as a key operational interface with U.S. Government program offices and prime aerospace OEM customers.
• Ensure successful execution of complex defense programs and long-term production contracts.
• Support business development efforts with Tier-1 aerospace and defense contractors.
• Maintain rigorous compliance with AS9100, ITAR, and defense program quality standards.
• Ensure mission-critical products meet the reliability requirements of aerospace and defense systems.
• Identify opportunities to expand NewVac’s presence across next-generation aerospace and defense programs.
• Scale manufacturing capacity to support increasing demand from prime contractors.
• Build, develop, and mentor a high-performing leadership team across operations, engineering, and program management.
• Foster a culture of accountability, precision, and operational excellence.

What you will need to be successful in this role:

• 10+ years of leadership experience in aerospace, defense, or high-reliability manufacturing environments
• Experience working with prime aerospace contractors or U.S. defense programs
• Background in electromechanical assemblies, wire harnesses, connectivity systems, or aerospace components preferred
• Strong operational leadership with proven P&L management experience
• Deep understanding of aerospace quality systems and regulatory compliance frameworks
• Demonstrated ability to scale manufacturing operations while maintaining uncompromising quality standards
• Experience managing complex defense and aerospace supply chains
• Operationally rigorous with a strong focus on execution and results
• Customer-oriented with the credibility to effectively engage with aerospace prime contractors
• Ability to lead in environments where precision, reliability, and accountability are paramount

The rewards of your career go far beyond just your salary:

• Competitive salary and bonus package
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match
• Generous paid time off program
• Professional development and career advancement opportunities

Physical Demands/Work Environment:

The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

• Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be regularly required to sit, stand, bend, reach and move about the facility.
• The environmental characteristic for this position is an office setting.
• Candidates should be able to adapt to a traditional business environment.

Provides accommodation in accordance with applicable laws through all stages of the hiring process. If you require accommodation for any part of the application and/or hiring process, please advise Human Resources.

Compensation:

The anticipated salary range for this position is $137,000 to $175,000 annually. This range reflects the base salary for candidates who meet the requirements of the role, including experience, education, and location. In addition to base pay, this role is eligible for a bonus.