Manager, Production Systems
Administration
Mojave, CA, USA
On-site
Stratolaunch is a technology accelerator that engineers operationally realistic testing at Mach 5+. Our air-launched, Talon testbeds are reusable, cost-effective platforms that enable routine access to the hypersonic environment. We deliver flight data critical to validating system performance and achieving rapid technology deployment. Together with our customers, we drive innovations that are imperative to advancing national security.
We are seeking an experienced Production Systems Manager to lead the development, integration, and continuous improvement of our production systems. This leader will drive innovation in manufacturing processes, oversee process implementation and maintenance, and support facility improvement initiatives. The successful candidate will be a key contributor to integrating advanced technologies and supporting the development of future low- and mid-rate production lines.
Why Join Us
As our Production Systems Manager, you will shape how we develop, implement, and scale production systems that bridge the gap between advanced design and efficient manufacturing. This role offers the opportunity to directly influence the adoption of new technologies, optimize production environments, and ensure our facilities are ready for the future of aerospace manufacturing. You will collaborate across engineering, IT, and production teams to build systems that improve quality, efficiency, and scalability.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the development and advancement of production systems, introducing innovative solutions to enhance manufacturing capability and efficiency.
- Oversee process implementation, integration, and maintenance to ensure stable, repeatable, and compliant production operations.
- Create, maintain, and update tooling manuals and requirements, ensuring alignment with evolving production needs and industry standards.
- Drive manufacturing renovations and production facility improvement initiatives, optimizing layouts, workflows, and infrastructure for current and future demands.
- Act as a key partner in the integration of production systems, including MES, wire augmentation, and other advanced manufacturing technologies.
- Support the planning and development of future low- and mid-rate production lines, enabling scalable and flexible manufacturing solutions.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure process integration supports program schedules, product quality, and cost targets.
- Implement and champion best practices in production systems, documentation, and training to foster a culture of technical excellence and continuous improvement.
- Ensure all production system activities comply with safety, quality, and regulatory standards.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Industrial Technology, or equivalent; relevant years of experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
- Manager ($120,500-$158,000) 7+ years of experience in production systems integration, manufacturing engineering, or a similar technical field.
- Proven experience with process integration, tooling documentation, and facility improvement projects.
- Strong background in advanced manufacturing technologies (e.g., MES, automation, digital manufacturing).
- Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive integration initiatives.
- Excellent communication, documentation, and project management skills.
- Experience in supporting the transition from prototype to scalable production environments.
Preferred:
- Cross-industry perspective (e.g., automotive, motorsports, eVTOL, industrial manufacturing) with the ability to apply lessons learned to aerospace manufacturing challenges.
- Extensive experience in manufacturing methods across composites, machining, fabrication, electrical systems, propulsion, welding/forming, and systems integration.
- Experience transitioning from prototype to production environments.
- Hands-on experience with tooling design, automation, and digital manufacturing systems.
- Experience in developing factory layouts and scaling production facilities.
- Experience applying lean principles, automation, and digital tools to improve throughput and reduce waste.
- Lean Six Sigma certification or equivalent continuous improvement expertise.
Work Environment:
- Expected to be onsite >80% of nominal 9/80 scheduled workdays.
- Manufacturing environment supporting both prototype and production programs.
- This role requires presence both in the office and on the production floor.
- Limited travel may be required to support supplier collaboration, program reviews, or build events.
#LIOnsite
Base salary and leveling are established on a case-by-case basis. We consider several factors to ensure a competitive offer, including your location, educational background, and a comprehensive assessment of the skills and experience demonstrated during your interviews.
Benefits and our location(s):
- 9/80 schedule
- Healthcare (medical, dental, vision, prescription drugs)
- Paid Maternity and Parental Leave
- 50% company match per contributed dollar into 401(k) savings plan, up to $11,500
- Tuition reimbursement
This position may involve the operation of company vehicles as part of assigned duties.
Mojave Air & Spaceport is located just outside of Lancaster/Palmdale and is only 95 miles north of Los Angeles. The area offers both affordability and central access to a variety of California's best attractions and landmarks.
Not much for the outdoors and prefer the city life? You’re within a half day’s drive or less of Los Angeles, San Diego, Las Vegas, and San Francisco where you can find a variety of live entertainment, museums, tours, and historical sight-seeing. Theme parks are in abundance, with Six Flags Magic Mountain, Disneyland, and Knotts Berry Farm ready to meet the needs of rollercoaster thrill seekers.
Food and drink fanatics are in a haven of delectable choices. Wine aficionados will also find easy access to some of the state’s best vino in Paso Robles, Santa Ynez, and even more locally in Tehachapi and Agua Dulce. Beer fanatics will find some of the best West Coast IPAs at Bravery and Lucky Luke’s in Lancaster. Any food option you crave is covered, and we always recommend the authentic and fresh Mexican food that you won’t find anywhere else in the United States.
Stratolaunch is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity at our company. We encourage people from all walks of life to apply, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other characteristic protected by law. Our management team does not tolerate discrimination or harassment at any point during our employees’ and applicants’ time with us, especially with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities, and general treatment during employment. For purposes of transparency, U.S. Citizenship may be required for some positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.
Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law :
https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf