Production Manager, Part 21 and Part 145

Thomas Global; Irvine (CA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive remuneration

Comprehensive benefits

Job summary

Thomas Global Systems is expanding its Irvine, CA facility and seeks a Production Manager, Part 21 & Part 145, to lead manufacturing, assembly and testing of aircraft electronic systems. You will drive on-time delivery, safety, and continuous improvement within the quality system.

Based in Irvine, this on-site role requires collaboration across departments, mentoring staff, and delivering high-quality products while controlling costs and maintaining FAA/quality compliance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or similar degree.
• Minimum of 5 years in aerospace/defense program management (8+ preferred).
• Proficiency with avionics test equipment and software.
• Knowledge of FAA regulations and AS9100/ISO 9001 quality systems.
• U.S. person status required due to export control requirements.

Responsibilities

• Plan and manage daily and weekly production schedules to meet on-time delivery targets.
• Monitor shop floor activities and workflows to ensure products are completed on schedule.
• Identify and resolve production bottlenecks and coordinate parts availability to support uninterrupted production.
• Manage capacity planning and distribute workloads effectively across departments.
• Lead, mentor, and develop team members to strengthen technical knowledge and performance.
• Conduct performance evaluations and support employee development through KPIs.
• Maintain compliance with FAA/EASA requirements and quality procedures.
• Promote first-pass quality and ensure traceability and release documentation.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical skills

Communication

Teamwork

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering / Business Administration

Tools

Avionics test equipment

Avionics software

Job description

Position, Purpose & Scope:

Reporting to the Director of Operations, the Production Manager, Part 21 & Part 145 leads the manufacturing, assembly, and testing of aircraft electronic systems at Thomas Global Systems’ Irvine facility. The role is responsible for delivering quality products on time, managing production schedules and team performance, and improving workflows while maintaining safety and compliance with applicable FAA requirements and the internal quality management system.

About the Company:

Thomas Global Systems is a leader in the design, manufacture and support of high-integrity aviation and defense electronics, operating out of locations in Sydney, Australia and Irvine, California.

Location: Irvine, CA, fully onsite.

What's on Offer:

• A varied, fast paced role with an innovative and respected leader in mission-critical aerospace and defense products.
• Competitive remuneration and comprehensive benefit package.
• Join a team of skilled and motivated people committed to innovation, collaboration, and national security outcomes.

Key Responsibilities:

• Plan and manage daily and weekly production schedules to meet on-time delivery targets.

• Monitor shop floor activities and workflows to ensure products are completed on schedule.

• Identify and resolve production bottlenecks and coordinate parts availability to support uninterrupted production.

• Manage capacity planning and distribute workloads effectively across departments.

• Lead, mentor, and develop team members to strengthen technical knowledge and performance.

• Conduct performance evaluations and support employee development through annual goals and key performance indicators (KPIs).

• Maintain compliance with applicable AS9100, ISO 9001, and FAA/EASA requirements and company quality procedures.

• Promote first-pass quality and ensure products and work areas remain free of Foreign Object Debris (FOD).

• Oversee and support inspection and certification activities associated with return to service.

• Drive continuous improvement using Lean and Six Sigma methodologies to reduce waste, improve efficiency, and shorten lead times.

• Implement preventive maintenance programs for shop equipment and facilities.

• Oversee Part 21 production and Part 145 repair station activities within the scope of the company’s approvals, ratings, and authorized capabilities.

• Ensure personnel use current technical data and work instructions and follow applicable Repair Station Manual and Quality Control Manual procedures.

• Coordinate with Quality to maintain complete and accurate production and maintenance records, parts traceability, and required release documentation.

• Support Customer and FAA audits.

• Report on monthly KPI’s and implement lean initiatives to improve an and sustain those metrics.

• Foster a culture of continuous improvemen t and accountability.

Required Skills, Experience and Behaviors:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or similar degree.

• Minimum of 5 years of technical program management experience in aerospace or defense, 8+ years preferred.

• Physical - Routinely lift 10lbs, occasionally 50lbs, can identify colors, can tolerate sitting and standing, be able to read small print, tolerate products and materials associated with component maintenance.

• Environmental - Tolerates working in a noisy environment.

• Prior experience in avionics or in a related field is advantageous.

• Proficiency in using specialized avionics test equipment and software.

• Knowledge of FAA regulations and industry standards.

• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.

• Confirmed NEGATIVE results for drug and alcohol testing in compliance with 14 CFR Part 120 and 49 CFR Part 40.

• Strong analytical, communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.

• U.S. person status required due to applicable export control requirements.

Base salary range of $100,000 - $120,000 DOE per annum. The final salary offer will be determined after reviewing relevant factors, including but not limited to location, skill set; relevant experience; and other business and organizational needs.

At-Will Employment Statement

Thomas Global Systems is an at-will employer. Employment with the company is voluntary and may be terminated by the employee or the company at any time, with or without cause or notice, and for any reason or no reason at all.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement

Thomas Global Systems is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other protected status under applicable laws.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Accommodation Statement

If you are an individual with a disability and require a reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the application process or to perform the essential functions of a position, please contact us at [e-mail].