Job Title: R&D Manufacturing Director

Location: Herndon, VA

Salary Range: $150,000 - $225,000

Job Summary We are seeking a hands-on R&D Manufacturing Director to lead the production of first-of-kind prototypes, demonstration units, and initial low-rate production for aerospace and space laser/electro-optical systems. This role is not purely managerial; it blends daily manufacturing execution with strategic capability scaling, including Manufacturing Execution System (MES) implementation and serving as the operational link between engineering, quality, supply chain, and build teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Operations Oversight: Direct daily production shop activities, including optical and electronics assembly, parts cleaning, and machine shop operations.
• Production Planning: Partner with design engineers to develop work instructions, ensuring build packages, drawings, and schedules are executable.
• Process Improvement: Provide Design for Manufacturing (DFM) feedback, resolve nonconformances via root-cause analysis, and standardize processes for repeatability.
• System Implementation: Select, implement, and operationalize a new MES aligned with optical and laser manufacturing needs.
• AI&T Leadership: Serve as the process owner for Assembly Integration and Test (AI&T) from released design through final build.
• Team & Facility Management: Lead a hands-on manufacturing engineering team and partner with leadership to plan facility improvements.

Requirements

• Experience: 10–15 years in manufacturing engineering or production leadership.
• Domain Expertise: Direct experience with optical, laser, electro-optical, aerospace, or space-qualified hardware.
• NPI / Prototyping: Proven success transitioning new engineering designs through prototype, development, and low-rate initial production.
• Technical Skills: Deep understanding of AI&T, configuration control, and traceability in controlled build environments. Experience with ERP systems (like Deltek Costpoint) in an ISO-9001 or AS9100 certified facility.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in a technical discipline (engineering preferred).
• Leadership: A highly collaborative, hands-on management style.

Benefits Comprehensive package including medical, dental, and vision coverage; life/disability insurance; 401(k) with immediate match; FSA/HSA; education assistance; generous PTO; and flexible schedules (including a 9/80 alternate workweek option).