Head of Advanced Manufacturing 

Job Summary:

The Head of Advanced Manufacturing Department will be a critical leader responsible for driving the strategy, innovation, and execution of manufacturing processes within the aviation propulsion sector. This senior leadership position requires in-depth knowledge of advanced manufacturing technologies and practices, along with the ability to manage complex projects and lead a high-performing team. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in optimizing production methods, advancing manufacturing technologies, and ensuring the efficient and high-quality production of propulsion systems. This role requires a strategic leader who is adept at driving operational excellence, managing large-scale projects, and ensuring compliance with safety, quality, and regulatory standards.

Key Responsibilities:

• Leadership and Strategy:

• Lead and manage the Advanced Manufacturing team, forming the department’s team, guiding, coaching, mentoring, and motivating employees to achieve operational and strategic goals.
• Develop and implement the strategic direction of the manufacturing department, aligning goals with company objectives and long-term vision.
• Drive the adoption of next-generation manufacturing technologies, including additive manufacturing, robotics, automation, and precision machining.
• Support the development of employees, including identifying training needs and implementing appropriate learning and development initiatives.
• Collaborate with senior leadership to drive the development of the Advanced Manufacturing Roadmap, supporting long-term PowerTech product development in partnership with all relevant teams, both PowerTech and EDGE.

• Manufacturing Process Optimization:

• Oversee the development and optimization of manufacturing processes for complex propulsion systems and components.
• Implement lean manufacturing principles, driving continuous improvement and process efficiency to reduce costs and enhance production capabilities.
• Ensure the highest levels of product quality, incorporating best practices in process controls, inspections, and testing procedures.
• Drive the execution of advanced manufacturing projects and initiatives in alignment with the Advanced Manufacturing Roadmap.
• Initiate and monitor the progress of the project portfolio required to execute the Advanced Manufacturing Roadmap.

• Project Leadership and Management:

• Manage and oversee multiple high-priority projects related to advanced manufacturing techniques, ensuring they meet established timelines, budgets, and quality expectations.
• Approve project plans, budgets, and project-related documentation in accordance with the established project management process.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineering, quality assurance, and supply chain, to ensure seamless integration and alignment across departments.
• Ensure strong relationships and collaboration with Product, Supply Chain, and FAL (Final Assembly Line) teams to ensure efficient execution of manufacturing projects.
• Spearhead the execution of manufacturing technology programs from development to full-scale production.

• Innovation and Technology Advancement:

• Lead initiatives to explore and implement cutting-edge manufacturing technologies, driving innovation in production techniques.
• Evaluate and integrate emerging materials, manufacturing methods, and Industry 4.0 technologies (e.g., smart factories, data-driven optimization).
• Stay abreast of technological advancements and industry trends to ensure continuous improvement in manufacturing capabilities.
• Foster a culture of innovation within the manufacturing team, encouraging employees to contribute new ideas and approaches to solving challenges.

• Quality and Compliance Management:

• Ensure that all manufacturing processes and products meet or exceed safety, regulatory, and performance standards, including FAA,EASA, AS9100, and other relevant certifications.
• Establish and enforce rigorous quality control measures to ensure product integrity, including root cause analysis and corrective action plans for manufacturing defects.
• Maintain compliance with environmental standards and sustainability initiatives within manufacturing operations.

• System Integration and Optimization:

• Lead the integration of advanced manufacturing technologies with aerospace and defense platforms, optimizing for performance, efficiency, and safety.
• Oversee system-level trade studies and optimization tasks to balance competing performance objectives, such as cost, lead time, and product quality.
• Collaborate with testing teams to validate manufacturing processes and ensure compliance with industry standards.

• Stakeholder Engagement and Communication:

• Engage with key internal and external stakeholders, including senior leadership, customers, and suppliers, to understand requirements and ensure alignment with project goals.
• Foster a culture of open communication and collaboration across all teams involved in the manufacturing process.
• Represent the company in industry forums, conferences, and client meetings, sharing technical insights and manufacturing innovations.

• Budget Management:

• Prepare and manage the department budget, ensuring that resources are effectively allocated to meet manufacturing goals.
• Monitor and control budget implementation to ensure financial targets are met while maintaining high-quality production standards.

• Collaboration with External Organizations:

• Collaborate with other Advanced Manufacturing teams and external research and educational organizations to stay at the forefront of manufacturing innovations and academic advancements.
• Drive the development of technical disciplines within the department, ensuring alignment with established standards and the company’s ongoing and future needs.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field. A Master’s degree is preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in advanced manufacturing, with at least 5 years in a leadership role, preferably within the aerospace or aviation propulsion industry.
• Proven experience in managing large-scale manufacturing projects and leading teams in the development and optimization of advanced manufacturing techniques.
• Strong background in the integration of advanced manufacturing technologies, including additive manufacturing, automation, and robotics.
• Experience with quality management systems and regulatory compliance, particularly AS9100 FAA and EASA requirements.

• Skills:

• In-depth knowledge of advanced manufacturing methods, materials science, and precision machining.
• Proven leadership skills with the ability to inspire and manage cross-functional teams toward achieving project goals.
• Strong project management capabilities, including budgeting, scheduling, and resource management.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making abilities.
• Strong communication skills to interact effectively with senior management, customers, and team members.

• Desirable:

• Familiarity with propulsion systems and components, including turbines, compressors, and high-performance alloys.
• Experience with CAD/CAM software and product lifecycle management tools.
• Knowledge of Industry 4.0 technologies, including IoT, robotics, and data-driven optimization techniques.
• Experience in leading teams in lean manufacturing, process optimization, and continuous improvement initiatives.