Production Manager

Job description

AST SpaceMobile and our global partners are building the first and only space-based cellular broadband network to be accessible by standard smartphones. Called SpaceMobile, this ultra-powerful network is being designed to provide connectivity at 4G/5G speeds everywhere on the planet – on land, at sea and in flight. Summary: The Production Manager ensures manufacturing equipment, tools, and production processes operate efficiently, safely, and in alignment with organizational goals. This role oversees production scheduling, resource utilization, workflow optimization, and team performance to maintain quality, cost, and delivery targets. The Production Manager supports composites fabrication, structures assembly, and SLT operations while driving continuous improvement across the production environment. Duties and Responsibilities: Oversight of front-line leadership and indirect employees' performance and KPI goals Oversee and improve safety protocols and skills training as business growth continues Demonstrated attendance management for a high-volume production environment while maintaining a positive and engaged environment Motivating, supporting, and providing guidance to production staff Ensuring all safety and health standards are met to maintain an accident‑free environment Communicating regularly with upper management regarding issues impacting production Evaluating machine and equipment resources to ensure continued production and minimal downtime Establishing a balance between increased productivity and reduced operational costs Setting productivity goals for each manufacturing team Developing workflow policies and procedures that improve efficiency without compromising safety or quality Ensuring adequate scheduling of staff and alignment with production plans Supporting composites, structures, and precision assembly operations Maintaining schedule discipline and driving accountability across production teams Collaborating cross‑functionally with engineering, quality, supply chain, and operations to resolve production bottlenecks Supporting continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, and structured problem‑solving methodologies Ensuring compliance with internal standards, regulatory requirements, and quality management systems Manage multiple production shifts (i.e., 4x10/3x12) Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively across multiple sites, shifts and departments across AST SpaceMobile Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, or a related technical field; equivalent experience considered 3+ years of experience in production planning, manufacturing operations, or assembly environments Experience supporting composites, structures, or precision assembly operations Knowledge of quality management systems and ISO standards At least 2 years of supervisory experience Must be a U.S. Citizen, Permanent Resident, or possess valid U.S. work authorization Preferred Qualifications: Experience in aerospace, satellite, avionics, or high‑precision manufacturing Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies Strong communication, organizational, and cross‑functional collaboration skills Proficiency with ERP/MRP, MES, and Microsoft Office Suite Demonstrated ability to support production teams, drive accountability, and maintain schedule discipline Strong project management skills Proven record of training employees in safety and production Working knowledge of EPA and OSHA regulations Physical Requirements: Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer Ability to traverse the production facility Ability to lift 15 pounds at times Travel to different locations for business needs and meetings Additional Information: This job description may not be inclusive to the duties and responsibilities listed. Additional tasks may be assigned to the employee from time to time or the scope of the job may change as needed by business demands . AST SpaceMobile is an Equal Opportunity, at will Employer; employment is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.