Production Program Manager

Kratos Unmanned Systems; Oklahoma City (OK); On-site; USD 85,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

Kratos Unmanned Systems is seeking a Production Program Manager to oversee the planning and execution of program manufacturing activities. The successful candidate will lead cross-functional teams in developing manufacturing cost estimates and improving manufacturing processes while maintaining high-quality standards.

This role requires at least 7 years of relevant experience in aerospace manufacturing or project management, along with a Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Business. The position involves occasional travel and requires U.S. Citizenship.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of direct experience in Aerospace Manufacturing and Project Management.
• Ability to communicate professionally at all levels.
• Demonstrated leadership in cross-functional projects.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute program manufacturing activities.
• Develop manufacturing related cost estimates.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives.

Skills

Ability to maintain sensitive and confidential information

Effective interpersonal interaction

Professional communication

Experience in financial forecasting

Lean manufacturing experience

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Business

Job description

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc., is a leading defense technology company focused on unmanned systems, satellite communications, cyber security/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, training, and combat systems. Our customers include the U.S. federal government, foreign governments, commercial enterprises, and state and local government agencies.

At Kratos, we prioritize affordability as a cornerstone of our technology. We leverage proven, cutting‑edge methodologies and technology to minimize costs, streamline schedules, and mitigate risks, ensuring timely delivery of cost‑effective solutions to market.

Kratos Unmanned Aerial Systems (KUAS), a division of Kratos Defense, is renowned for its expertise in developing, delivering, integrating, and supporting high‑performance, cost‑effective, jet‑powered Unmanned Aerial Systems (Targets and Tactical). As a mid‑tier defense contractor, we've demonstrated agility and innovation in providing aircraft to the U.S. military and global allies and partners. Our track record of delivering top‑notch jet‑powered subscale targets has established us as a go‑to defense contractor capable of delivering capabilities at an affordable price.

At KUAS, we prioritize innovation, collaboration, and growth. Our team collaborates to cultivate a supportive and dynamic workplace, fostering creativity and promoting professional development while honoring personal and family lives. Join our team and help shape the future of unmanned technology within the defense industry today!

General Job Summary

The PPM is responsible for planning and execution of program manufacturing activities, resolving constraints, identifying and correcting negative trends, managing financial performance (estimates, ETCs, and labor performance), establishing and implementing corrective action plans, and interfacing with the customer community.

Essential Job Functions

• Interfaces with program manager(s) to establish, and document, production cost, quality, and delivery requirements.
• Develops manufacturing related cost estimates (ETCs) and prepares them for ERP and company financial systems.
• Leads cross functional teams consisting of Planning, Manufacturing Engineering, Quality Engineering, Procurement, Manufacturing and Finance.
• Estimates cost (labor & material) associated with non-recurring and recurring production to include out of scope activities.
• Serves as direct interface between Production Operations & Design Engineering for assigned programs.
• Participates in initial design phase to ensure:
  • Designs are delivered in accordance with approved program schedule.
  • Manufacturability of new designs and design revisions.
  • Design activity takes considers cost to manufacture.
• Identifies and corrects negative manufacturing performance trends with the Production Operations and Quality groups.
• Drives continuous improvement initiatives to improve safety, quality, profitability, and on‑time delivery.
• Leads employees assigned to the IPT in a matrix organization structure.
• May manage aftermarket support/depot activities.
• Coordinates and host customer visits to manufacturing facility.
• Maintains constant communication with Program stakeholders.
• Assists with P&L responsibility for assigned programs.

Supervisory Responsibility

None

Keyword: Production Program Manager

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Ability to maintain sensitive and confidential information as required by government standards and company policy.
• Ability to interact effectively with peers and leadership.
• Ability to interact appropriately with the customer when required.
• Ability to adhere to workplace policies and procedures.
• Ability to effectively communicate professionally in writing or verbally with all levels of personnel.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross‑functionally resources and meet program requirements.
• Demonstrated experience in financial forecasting and project performance management.
• Demonstrated ability to professionally interface with all levels of personnel including preparing and presenting executive level briefings and meeting materials.
• Thorough understanding of ISO/AS9100 policies and procedures.
• Lean manufacturing, value stream mapping and pull production system experience.
• Ability to conduct meetings effectively.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, or equivalent.
• 7+ years directly related experience in Aerospace Manufacturing, and/or Project Management. Equivalent combination of directly related education and work experience may be considered.
• May be required to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance (requires U.S. Citizenship).

Work Environment / Physical Requirements

• Office and/or manufacturing environment.
• May work extended hours or weekends.
• Employee may generate, handle, manage, or work around hazardous materials and hazardous wastes.
• May be required to lift up to 50 pounds in accordance with KUAS General Safety Training guidelines.

Travel Requirements

• May travel infrequently (5% - 10%).