Director, Program Operations (Aerospace)

TL;DR

Director, Program Operations (Aerospace): Leading the operational execution and program management infrastructure for the TeraWave satellite manufacturing program with an accent on scaling subassembly operations, configuration management, and production scheduling. Focus on transitioning from new product introduction (NPI) to high-rate volume production and ensuring flawless global deployment of customer terminals.

Location: Greater Seattle Area

Salary: $203,165 - $284,430

Company

An aerospace company developing reusable, safe, and low-cost space vehicles and systems to enable millions of people to live and work in space.

What you will do

• Own the operational execution strategy for the TeraWave satellite program, acting as the primary interface for cross-functional executive stakeholders.
• Lead and scale Subassembly Operations Program Management (OPM), including BOM management and long-lead component risk strategies.
• Direct the Operations Scheduling team to ensure the master production schedule reflects operational realities and capacity.
• Oversee the Configuration Management function to ensure product traceability and drive multi-source qualification for cost reduction.
• Manage end-to-end operations for customer terminals (user and gateway) to meet global deployment commitments.
• Drive operational excellence via first-pass yield improvement and structural cost-per-unit reduction.

Requirements

• 15+ years of experience in operations or manufacturing program management in high-stakes environments.
• 5+ years of senior leadership experience managing other managers.
• Must be a U.S. citizen, national, permanent resident, refugee, or granted asylum (Export Control).
• Deep expertise in production scheduling, BOM management, and configuration control.
• Proven track record of scaling operations from NPI to high-rate volume production.
• BA/BS degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Operations Management, or equivalent.

Nice to have

• Experience in satellite manufacturing or complex electromechanical aerospace production.
• Lean/Six Sigma Black Belt certification.
• PMP or equivalent project management certification.
• Familiarity with MES, ERP/MRP platforms, AS9100, or ISO 9001.
• Master's degree in Engineering, Operations, or Business.

Culture & Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) plan with a company match of up to 5%.
• Stock options for regular employees.
• Generous paid time off (up to 4 weeks) and 14 company-paid holidays.
• Education Support Program to foster continuous learning.