Kitting Operations Lead

Kitting Operations Lead 

Job Summary: 

The Kitting Operations Lead provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for all kitting and material‑flow activities at the Higuera facility. This role is responsible for planning, directing, and optimizing kitting operations to meet production, quality, and AS9100 requirements. The position exercises independent judgment in developing workflows, allocating resources, establishing performance standards, and driving continuous improvement. The Kitting Operations Lead partners cross‑functionally to support business objectives and leads a team of seven employees to ensure efficient, accurate, and compliant material operations. 

Responsibilities and Duties: 

• Develop and implement operational strategies, staffing plans, and resource allocation models to meet production and business requirements. 

• Establish performance metrics for kitting operations and ensure alignment with organizational goals. 

• Analyze operational data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities for improvement, and implement corrective actions. 

• Lead cross‑functional initiatives to enhance material flow, reduce bottlenecks, and improve overall operational efficiency. 

• Provide leadership, coaching, and development to the kitting and material handling team to ensure high performance and accountability. 

• Conduct performance evaluations, set expectations, and support professional development plans. 

• Make recommendations regarding hiring, promotions, disciplinary actions, and workforce planning. 

• Foster a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement. 

• Own and maintain kitting‑related procedures, work instructions, and process documentation in alignment with AS9100 and internal quality standards. 

• Ensure operational compliance with company policies, safety regulations, and customer requirements. 

• Lead root‑cause investigations for material‑flow issues and implement preventive actions to strengthen process reliability. 

• Oversee ERP data integrity and ensure accurate, timely reporting of material transactions. 

• Oversee the execution of kitting activities, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and alignment with production schedules. 

• Provide direction on prioritization of work orders, material staging, and resource deployment. 

• Evaluate and approve timecards, schedule adjustments, and workflow changes to support operational needs. 

• Make decisions regarding material disposition, nonconformance handling, and inventory adjustments. 

• Lead initiatives to streamline processes, reduce operational costs, and enhance material‑handling efficiency. 

• Partner with Production, Quality, and Supply Chain to resolve systemic issues and improve end‑to‑end material flow. 

• Recommend and implement technology, tooling, or system enhancements to support operational excellence. 

• Represent kitting operations in audits, internal reviews, and cross‑functional planning meetings.  

Required Qualifications and Skills:

• 5+ years of experience in operations, supply chain, or manufacturing leadership roles. 

• Demonstrated experience leading teams and managing performance in a fast‑paced environment. 

• Strong analytical and decision‑making skills with the ability to interpret operational data and drive improvements. 

• Experience with ERP/MRP systems and inventory management best practices. 

• Strong communication, organizational, and leadership capabilities. 

• Ability to exercise independent judgment in operational planning, prioritization, and problem‑solving. 

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.   

Desired Qualifications and Skills: 

• Bachelor’s degree in operations management, supply chain, business administration, or related field. 

• Experience with AS9100, ISO 9001, or aerospace manufacturing environments. 

• Background in continuous improvement methodologies or cost‑reduction initiatives. 

• Familiarity with government or defense‑related inventory requirements. 

• Experience supporting R&D or prototype manufacturing environments. 

Physical Requirements: 

• Ability to stand or move for extended periods. 

• Ability to lift or move items up to 50 lbs occasionally. 

• Comfortable working in an active warehouse environment with elevated noise levels. 

• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform essential functions. 

Comprehensive Benefits & Perks  

• Health & Wellness: Choose from three health, dental, and vision plans - including a 100% employer-paid option covering both employees and their families.   

• Paid Time Off: Enjoy 120 hours of PTO, 80 hours accrued plus an additional 40 hours of holiday break pay in addition to Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day off.   

• Life Insurance: $25,000 employer-paid life insurance policy, with the option to purchase additional coverage for employees and their families.   

• Supplemental Coverage: Access optional benefits such as Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, Accident Insurance, and Critical Illness with Skin Cancer coverage.   

• Health Savings Account (HSA): Take advantage of a tax-advantaged HSA to manage medical expenses.   

• Retirement Savings: 401(k) with a company match to support your financial future.   

• Paid Holidays: Enjoy 9 paid holidays throughout the year.   

• Work Environment: A casual dress code, complimentary snacks, and a welcoming company culture.   

• Ideal Location: Work in an area that offers an outstanding quality of life - a perfect place to live, work, and play!      

Company Overview:   

Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc (ESAero) is a leader in aerospace engineering, product development, and manufacturing, dedicated to delivering high-quality, innovative, and cost-effective solutions to the industry. We specialize in cutting-edge system design, rapid product development, precision manufacturing, comprehensive testing, and technology demonstrations to support the evolving needs of the aerospace community. Committed to excellence, on-time delivery, and continuous growth, we invest in infrastructure to expand our manufacturing and aftermarket capabilities while maintaining the highest standards of engineering services.   

At ESAero, we don’t just build products, we engineer solutions that propel   

the aerospace industry forward. 

**This position is fully on-site at ESAero in San Luis Obispo, CA**  

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ESAero is an equal opportunity employer.    
E-Verify participation required for employment.    
Must present proof of authorization to work in the United States.       
Must be able to pass background check and drug test.      
Hiring Range: $70,400 - $90,000 Salary Exempt