Associate Director of Manufacturing

Associate Director, Manufacturing Operations

Location: Fairborn, OH

Our Client delivers advanced engineering and manufacturing solutions that support critical aerospace and defense programs. Our work sits at the intersection of digital engineering, smart manufacturing, and mission readiness.

We are looking for an experienced Associate Director, Manufacturing Operations, to lead manufacturing execution, operational performance, and workforce development across high-impact defense programs.

This is a leadership role for someone who knows how to run complex manufacturing environments, build strong teams, and drive modernization. You will oversee core manufacturing operations while also leading strategic talent in Manufacturing Automation and Digital Factory, helping shape the future of advanced manufacturing inside a regulated, mission-critical environment. Leadership Focus, Manufacturing Automation, and Digital Factory. A major part of this role is leading and developing the talent behind our automation and digital factory capabilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end manufacturing operations across production, workforce planning, process execution, and performance
• Drive lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives that improve quality, efficiency, and delivery
• Oversee production ramp-up, schedule attainment, and operational readiness across defense programs
• Implement advanced manufacturing technologies that improve throughput, traceability, and manufacturing performance
• Partner with engineering on digital manufacturing, process optimization, and factory modernization initiatives
• Collaborate with quality, supply chain, and program teams to solve operational challenges and improve execution
• Ensure compliance with AS9100, ISO, customer, and DoD requirements
• Build, lead, and develop high-performing manufacturing teams

You will:

• Lead, supervise, coach, and develop employees in Manufacturing Automation and Digital Factory functions
• Provide direct leadership to the Sector Lead, Manufacturing Automation, and the Sector Lead, Digital Factory
• Ensure employees are aligned to both immediate program work and broader operational goals
• Build training plans, development pathways, and succession plans across these teams
• Match talent to the right work based on experience level, capability, and business priority
• Create a strong operating rhythm between manufacturing operations and digitally enabled support functions
• Help shape how automation and digital factory teams support production performance today and future capability tomorrow

What Success Looks Like

• You know how to lead in environments where execution matters.
• You can balance production demands with long-term capability building.
• You can develop people at different stages of their careers and help them grow into bigger technical and leadership roles.
• You understand that advanced manufacturing is not just about technology. It is about putting the right people, systems, and processes in place so the operation performs at a high level.

Experience We Are Looking For

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations, or related field, Master’s preferred
• 8 to 12+ years of manufacturing operations experience in aerospace, defense, or another highly regulated industry
• 5+ years of leadership experience
• Strong background in lean manufacturing, operational excellence, and quality systems
• Experience with advanced manufacturing technologies, manufacturing automation, and digital factory environments
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and develop technical talent
• Experience supporting DoD programs, defense OEMs, or government contracts is preferred
• Lean Six Sigma certification is strongly preferred

Additional Requirements

• Must be able to attain a United States Security Clearance
• Ability to travel up to 30%