Vice President Production Operations

Sierra Nevada Corporation; Dayton (OH); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Vice President of Production Operations to lead their growth in high-volume aerospace production. This pivotal role requires a visionary leader who can develop strategic plans and implement best practices to achieve operational excellence. You will manage production teams, foster a culture of innovation, and ensure compliance with industry standards. With a focus on collaboration and efficiency, you will drive process improvements and maintain high-quality production. Join a company committed to excellence, where your leadership will shape the future of aerospace operations.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits package

401(k) with 150% match up to 6%

Tuition reimbursement

Paid time off

Life insurance

Qualifications

• 15+ years in production operations management, especially in Aerospace & Defense.
• Deep knowledge of manufacturing principles and practices in aerospace and defense.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret U.S. Security Clearance.

Responsibilities

• Lead production teams across multiple states, ensuring high performance.
• Drive process improvements to reduce costs and increase productivity.
• Collaborate with engineering, supply chain, and quality departments.

Skills

Leadership

Production Operations Management

Strategic Planning

Change Management

Analytical Skills

Problem-Solving

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business Management

Master’s degree in Business Administration

Tools

Materials Management Systems

Lean Manufacturing

Six Sigma

Job description

As the Vice President of Production Operations, you will be accountable for leading the Operations Function in a challenging and fast-paced growth environment with a focus on scalability. You will develop strategic plans, provide leadership, and implement best practices to ensure operational excellence and efficiency. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong leadership skills, establish a clear vision, and communicate effectively to motivate a diverse workforce.

SNC is a well-known large system integrator and aircraft modifier, expanding into high-volume production in the air vehicle space. This landscape requires a leader capable of navigating both realms, building new production facilities and teams, and executing confidently within the core business. You will guide established and emerging leaders, drive process improvements, cost savings, and high-quality production, while ensuring compliance with industry regulations and standards. Collaboration with cross-functional teams and profit & loss centers will be essential to ensure reliable product delivery aligned with the company's mission and strategic goals.

The IAS (Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance, Aviation, and Security) business area is a leader in ISR and aviation, specializing in high-performance ISR and aviation systems, including design, integration, testing, certification, training, and logistics support. They tailor solutions to meet customer requirements and have a proven record of delivering on time and within budget.

Key Responsibilities

1. Implement and utilize advanced production technologies and methodologies, including additive manufacturing and automation.
2. Monitor and adopt new manufacturing methods to enhance capabilities and efficiencies.
3. Foster a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous learning within production teams.
4. Establish high-efficiency air vehicle manufacturing facilities supporting scalable production.
5. Build and maintain strategic manufacturing partnerships to ensure supply chain integrity.
6. Develop and execute strategic plans for production to achieve operational excellence and support growth.
7. Lead production teams across multiple states, ensuring high performance and adherence to best practices.
8. Oversee materials management, inventory, and logistics for timely production.
9. Drive process improvements to reduce costs and increase productivity.
10. Ensure compliance with industry regulations, quality standards, and company policies.
11. Collaborate with engineering, supply chain, quality, and other departments to align operations with business goals.
12. Manage budgets, forecasts, and performance metrics.
13. Maintain product quality and customer satisfaction through quality control and continuous improvement.
14. Promote safety protocols and practices.
15. Develop workforce with strong succession plans and future leaders.

Qualifications You Must Have

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Management, Supply Chain, Engineering, or related field (Master's preferred).
• 15+ years in production operations management, especially in Aerospace & Defense.
• Experience leading high-volume production environments.
• Deep knowledge of manufacturing principles and practices in aerospace and defense.
• Experience with materials management systems and advanced manufacturing technologies.
• Proven leadership in change management, team building, and performance management.
• Excellent communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage complex projects and dynamic situations.
• Experience in strategic planning, budgeting, and financial management.
• Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams and senior leadership.
• Background in defense, aerospace, intelligence, or related markets; understanding industry challenges.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret U.S. Security Clearance.

Qualifications We Prefer

• Master’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain, Engineering, or related field.
• Experience with lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies.
• Familiarity with aerospace and defense regulations like ITAR and AS9100.
• Experience working with DoD, NASA, or government entities.

SNC offers annual incentive pay based on performance, a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%, life insurance, paid time off, tuition reimbursement, and more.

Important Notice: This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Secret U.S. Security Clearance. U.S. Citizenship is required. Non-U.S. citizens may not be eligible. The Department of Defense Consolidated Adjudications Facility handles clearance processes. Factors affecting clearance include allegiance, foreign influence, criminal conduct, security violations, and illegal drug use. Learn more about the background check process for Security Clearances.

SNC is committed to diversity and equal opportunity employment, making decisions based on merit without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other protected characteristics.