Key Responsibilities

• Operational Leadership:

• Lead and manage all aspects of day-to-day plant operations to meet production goals, quality standards, and safety regulations.

• Develop and implement production plans, including scheduling, resource allocation, and workflow optimization to ensure efficient manufacturing of UGVs.

• Monitor plant performance metrics (KPIs), identifying areas for improvement and implement corrective actions as needed.

• Establish and maintain production targets, focusing on maximizing productivity while minimizing downtime and waste.

• Staff Management and Development:

• Directly supervise a team of supervisors, engineers, and production staff, ensuring they are well-trained, motivated, and capable of meeting operational objectives.

• Foster a positive and productive work environment, leading by example and promoting a culture of accountability, teamwork, and respect.

• Conduct regular performance evaluations, provide coaching, and identify opportunities for employee development and career growth.

• Ensure proper staffing levels and work schedules to support production targets, while maintaining a strong focus on employee retention and engagement.

• Safety and Compliance:

• Champion a culture of safety and ensure the facility adheres to all safety regulations, OSHA standards, and internal safety protocols.

• Proactively identify and address potential safety hazards, conducting regular safety audits and training to prevent accidents and injuries.

• Ensure compliance with all environmental and regulatory requirements, working with the COO to address any necessary changes or improvements in these areas.

• Quality Assurance:

• Oversee the implementation and enforcement of quality control standards, ensuring that all products meet the company’s stringent quality and performance expectations.

• Work closely with the quality team to address any product defects or production issues that may arise, ensuring corrective actions are taken in a timely and effective manner.

• Drive continuous improvement in production processes to maintain the highest standards of product quality and customer satisfaction.

• Budget and Resource Management:

• Manage the plant’s budget, ensuring cost-effective operations and alignment with financial targets.

• Collaborate with the COO to forecast resource needs, manage inventory, and control costs related to labor, materials, and equipment.

• Work closely with the engineering team to ensure equipment is properly maintained, and downtime is minimized.

• Continuous Improvement and Innovation:

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives by utilizing lean manufacturing principles, Six Sigma, or other methodologies to enhance plant efficiency and reduce operational waste.

• Stay up-to-date with the latest manufacturing technologies, industry trends, and best practices to identify opportunities for innovation and process optimization.

• Lead projects focused on upgrading plant capabilities, introducing new technologies, and scaling production as the company grows.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration:

• Collaborate with the product development, engineering, and supply chain teams to ensure production requirements are met and any challenges are resolved effectively.

• Partner with the HR team to maintain a skilled, diverse workforce, manage labor relations, and address any personnel issues that may arise.

• Communicate effectively with senior leadership, providing regular updates on plant performance, challenges, and opportunities.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing, Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field. A Master’s degree is a plus.
• A minimum of 7-10 years of progressive experience in manufacturing, with at least 3 years in a leadership or management role, preferably within an advanced manufacturing or automotive environment.
• Experience in aerospace, autonomous vehicle manufacturing, robotics, or off-road vehicle production is highly preferred.
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, production planning, lean methodologies, and quality assurance practices.

Skills & Competencies

• Proven ability to lead and motivate a diverse team of employees, including supervisors, engineers, and production staff.
• Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to analyze complex situations and implement effective solutions.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate across functions and engage with senior leadership.
• In-depth understanding of safety standards, regulatory compliance, and environmental protocols in a manufacturing environment.
• Highly organized, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.
• Strong analytical skills and proficiency with data analysis tools, ERP systems, and production management software.

Personal Attributes

• Strong leadership presence and ability to build trust with team members and senior leadership.
• A results-driven mindset, with a focus on achieving operational goals and delivering high-quality outcomes.
• A commitment to continuous improvement and fostering a culture of innovation and accountability.
• Adaptable and flexible, with the ability to thrive in a rapidly changing environment.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Security Clearance.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

• This role requires regular on-site presence in the manufacturing facility, which may include exposure to noise, machinery, and heavy equipment.
• The Plant Manager will be expected to spend a significant amount of time on the factory floor and in the office, overseeing operations and interacting with team members.
• Occasional travel may be required for supplier meetings, industry events, or corporate initiatives.

Location: Rainier Beach, Seattle

Benefits Overland AI believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day.

• The salary range for this position is $120K to $180K annually
• Equity compensation
• Best-in-class healthcare, dental, and vision plans
• Unlimited PTO
• 401k with company match
• Parental leave