Manager, Avionics Manufacturing

Vast is looking for a Manager of Avionics Manufacturing, reporting to Sr. Manager of Avionics and Testing, to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design and build of artificial-gravity human-rated space stations. This will be a full-time, exempt position located in our Long Beach location. 

Responsibilities: 

• Lead the Avionics Manufacturing team, overseeing Avionics Assembly Builds, Fabrication, and Functional Testing.
• Collaborate with design teams to provide input on the manufacturability and assembly processes of avionics components, wire harnesses, and batteries. 
• Lead and coordinate Bill of Materials for Avionics Assemblies and Components.
• Support the Responsible Engineers with avionics failures/troubleshooting and root cause analysis.
• Optimize the manufacturing process for avionics systems, considering factors such as efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness. 
• Create and maintain detailed manufacturing plans, assembly procedures, and work instructions to ensure consistent and accurate production of avionics systems. 
• Identify and resolve manufacturing challenges by conducting root cause analysis and implementing corrective actions. 
• Work closely with suppliers to ensure timely delivery of high-quality avionics components, reviewing and approving supplier manufacturing processes. 
• Perform hands-on assembly, integration, and testing of avionics systems, ensuring compliance with engineering specifications and industry standards. 
• Participate in design reviews, providing valuable insights to improve the manufacturability and reliability of avionics components. 
• Collaborate with quality assurance teams to establish and maintain rigorous quality control processes for avionics manufacturing. 
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives, identifying opportunities to enhance manufacturing efficiency, reduce waste, and improve overall product quality. 
• Stay up-to-date with industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in avionics manufacturing to drive innovation within the company.
• Meet tight production schedules to achieve high production rates while maintaining quality standards and be able to adapt to changing priorities in a fast moving environment. 

Minimum Qualifications:

• Solid track record of leading a high performing Avionics Manufacturing team in Aerospace or related fields.
• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• 7+ years of experience  in manufacturing engineering, preferably in the avionics industry, of which at least 3+ years as a leader.
• Professional experience in a manufacturing environment working within a quality system such as AS9100, ISO9001, etc.
• 3+ years of experience in team management, mentorship, and performance management, with a focus on feedback and growth development.

Preferred Skills & Experience:

• Strong understanding of avionics systems, electronics manufacturing processes, and assembly techniques. 
• Experience in CAD software (such as Siemens NX) for reviewing designs.
• Experience in creating manufacturing documentation (such as Standard Operating Procedures and Work Orders).
• Familiarity with industry standards and regulations relevant to avionics manufacturing, such as IPC standards. 
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to perform root cause analysis. 
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in cross- functional teams. 
• Hands-on experience with testing and troubleshooting avionics systems is desirable. 
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and Six Sigma methodologies is a plus. 
• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to producing high-quality work.

Additional Requirements:

• Willingness to work overtime or weekends to support critical mission milestones.
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs unassisted.