Production and Operations Manager

Shift5 is building the data platform for onboard operational technology (OT). We deliver cybersecurity, predictive maintenance, and compliance capabilities that enable defense and commercial fleets to operate with greater readiness, resilience, and mission assurance.

We are seeking a mission-aligned Production & Manufacturing Operations Lead to lead our low-volume, high-complexity assembly operations for aerospace and defense electronic assemblies (PCBAs, wiring harnesses, box builds).

This role sits at the intersection of Production Planning, Supply Chain Integrity, and Quality Compliance and will play a critical role in supporting Shift5’s next phase of growth.

This is not a traditional mass-production oversight role. It requires ownership of the end-to-end manufacturing lifecycle, technical fluency in ERP/MES systems, and the ability to establish robust processes from the ground up in a fast-paced startup environment.

• Lead and execute all Master Production Schedules (MPS) and detailed work routings within our ERP (NetSuite) to ensure accurate resource allocation.

• Own the quality and compliance lifecycle, serving as the primary lead for maintaining AS9100 and ISO 9001 standards.

• Partner closely with Engineering, Finance, and Supply Chain to optimize assembly methods and ensure designs are manufacturable and cost-effective.

• Drive measurable impact in production flow by managing Work-In-Process (WIP) and implementing corrective actions for cycle-time bottlenecks.

• Identify and act on opportunities to improve supply chain verification, ensuring critical components meet TAA, ITAR, and contractual requirements.

• Navigate the rigors of aerospace and defense standards, including IPC-A-610 and IPC/WHMA-A-620 for all cable and board assemblies.

• Contribute directly to our modernization mission by ensuring the reliable delivery of hardware that secures critical infrastructure.

• Establish a baseline for operational excellence by mastering our ERP systems and documenting core assembly and inspection workflows.

• Build organizational credibility by taking full ownership of production scheduling and serving as the primary point of contact for QMS compliance.

• Drive measurable improvements in production flow by identifying process gaps and implementing corrective actions that enhance cycle times.

• Ensure long-term scalability by creating a strategic roadmap for manufacturing growth and optimizing documentation for seamless knowledge transfer.

• Foster a culture of mission-readiness through rigorous incoming inspections and adherence to aerospace and defense quality standards.

• Experience in manufacturing operations (5+ years) with a focus on high-reliability electronics in the Aerospace or Defense sectors.

• Demonstrated ability to manage complex data within an ERP/MES system (setting routings, BOMs, and work orders).

• Strong leadership skills with the ability to drive a culture of quality, safety, and Lean/Six Sigma principles.

• Comfort operating in regulated environments requiring deep knowledge of TAA, ITAR, and export control regulations.

• Bachelor’s or Associate degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, or Manufacturing) or a related field.

• Preferred qualifications include expert-level familiarity with IPC-A-610/620 and experience with low-volume, high-mix hardware builds.

• Base Salary: $153,500 – $171,652

• Bonus program and equity in a fast-growing startup

• Employer-paid medical, dental, and vision coverage

• Health Savings Account with annual employer contributions

• Life and Disability Insurance

• Uncapped paid time off policy

• Flexible work & remote work policy

• Tax-deferred public transit benefits with Metro SmartBenefits (DC/MD/VA)

Shift5 is committed to equal employment opportunity and affirmative action. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other protected characteristics.