Job Description
Job Description
We are seeking an experienced Production Manager to lead daily manufacturing operations for our inflatable defense products. This role is responsible for driving safety, quality, on-time delivery, and continuous improvement across production teams. The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader with a strong background in technical manufacturing who can develop people, optimize processes, and deliver results in a defense-oriented environment.
Key Responsibilities
> Lead and develop production teams (supervisors and operators) to meet daily/weekly output targets while maintaining the highest standards of quality and safety.
> Oversee assembly, fabrication, and finishing operations for large-scale inflatable structures, ensuring compliance with customer specifications and military quality requirements.
> Drive Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives (5S, standardized work, root cause analysis) to increase throughput, reduce waste, and improve first-pass yield.
> Manage production scheduling, labor allocation, and workflow to achieve on-time delivery performance while controlling costs and overtime.
> Champion a strong safety culture through daily engagement, audits, training, and proactive hazard identification in accordance with OSHA standards.
> Monitor and act on key performance indicators (KPIs) for safety, quality, delivery, and cost; implement corrective actions as needed.
> Collaborate cross-functionally with Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, and Program Management to resolve issues and support new product introductions or process changes.
> Manage production budgets, inventory accuracy at the line level, and equipment readiness.
> Conduct performance management, coaching, training, and succession planning to build a high-performing, accountable team.
> Maintain a clean, organized, and audit-ready production floor.
Qualifications
> 5+ years of progressive leadership experience in manufacturing production management or supervision (experience leading teams of 20+ preferred).
> Demonstrated success improving throughput, quality, safety, and/or cost metrics in a manufacturing environment.
> Strong working knowledge of Lean manufacturing principles, 5S, and continuous improvement tools.
> Proven ability to lead, coach, and develop diverse teams in a fast-paced, deadline-driven setting.
> Excellent organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills.
> Comfortable working in a hands-on production environment with large assemblies and technical products.
> Must be able to work on-site in Azusa, CA.
Preferred Qualifications
> Experience in aerospace, defense, composites, precision assembly, or similar technical manufacturing industries.
> Background with fabric assembly, inflatable/pneumatic products, or large-scale structural assembly is highly desirable.
> Bilingual (English/Spanish) strongly preferred.
> Experience with military or government contract quality standards and documentation.
> Working knowledge of ERP/MRP systems and production scheduling tools.
\nCompany Description
At i2k Defense, you’ll join a veteran-owned industry leader with over 25 years of American manufacturing expertise. By working at our Azusa facility, you will craft life-saving innovations, including high-tech military decoys and mission-ready shelters used by global defense forces.
We value Integrity and Commitment to Excellence, fostering a culture where challenging goals meet total accountability. As a team member, you will use advanced technology and premium materials to turn complex concepts into reality. Whether you are an industrial sewer or a plant manager, your role is vital to our reputation for quality and customer satisfaction. Grow your career with a goal-oriented pioneer dedicated to mission success and creative innovation.
Company Description
At i2k Defense, you’ll join a veteran-owned industry leader with over 25 years of American manufacturing expertise. By working at our Azusa facility, you will craft life-saving innovations, including high-tech military decoys and mission-ready shelters used by global defense forces.\r\n\r\nWe value Integrity and Commitment to Excellence, fostering a culture where challenging goals meet total accountability. As a team member, you will use advanced technology and premium materials to turn complex concepts into reality. Whether you are an industrial sewer or a plant manager, your role is vital to our reputation for quality and customer satisfaction. Grow your career with a goal-oriented pioneer dedicated to mission success and creative innovation.