Space Ops Manager — Lean, Data-Driven Leader

Socket.dev; South El Monte (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

401(k) with company match

Paid time off

HSA with company contribution

FSA

Life and AD&D insurance

Disability coverage

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

Karman Space & Defense is seeking an Operations Manager to oversee manufacturing operations and drive improvements across production, program management, and assembly activities in California. You will lead daily execution, guide shop supervision, and ensure processes and quality-management responsibilities are clearly defined and effective.

The role emphasizes throughput, product safety, and performance enhancements, with responsibility for budgets, forecasting, and scheduling.

Qualifications

• Four-year degree preferred in Engineering.
• Experience managing manufacturing operations and leading teams.
• Strong proficiency with Excel for KPI tracking and reporting.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and specs.
• Experience with Lean manufacturing and Six Sigma principles.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day manufacturing operations in assigned areas.
• Supervise Assembly Technicians, Supervisors, and stock room activities.
• Develop and implement operational policies, procedures, and best practices.
• Identify bottlenecks and drive cross-functional improvement with PM, Eng, and QA.
• Monitor KPIs and drive on-time delivery, efficiency, and quality.

Skills

Excel proficiency

Engineering drawings

Lean manufacturing

Strategic planning

Capacity planning

Operational execution

Leadership

Communication

Problem solving

Budgeting & forecasting

ERP systems

Lean Six Sigma

Education

Four-year degree (Engineering preferred)

Tools

ERP systems

Job description

Karman Space & Defense is seeking an Operations Manager to oversee manufacturing operations and drive improvements across production, program management, and assembly activities in California. You will lead daily execution, guide shop supervision, and ensure processes and quality-management responsibilities are clearly defined and effective.

The role emphasizes throughput, product safety, and performance enhancements, with responsibility for budgets, forecasting, and scheduling.