The Guts to Try

Position Summary

The Operational Excellence Program Manager is responsible for leading cross-functional initiatives that drive process efficiency, quality improvement, and cost reduction across aerospace manufacturing operations. This role oversees continuous improvement programs using Lean, Six Sigma, and data-driven methodologies to enhance productivity, reduce waste, and ensure compliance with AS9100 and other aerospace industry standards.

The ideal candidate will collaborate with engineering, quality, and supply chain teams to identify opportunities for operational improvement, standardize best practices, and sustain a culture of continuous improvement throughout the organization.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Strategic Program Leadership

• Develop and execute the company’s Operational Excellence roadmap aligned with strategic business objectives utilizing the Hoshin Kanri method
• Partner with leadership teams to identify improvement opportunities across manufacturing, quality, and supply chain functions
• Lead the implementation of Lean and Six Sigma methodologies to improve operational efficiency and product quality
• Manage project visibility and achieve success before deadlines by holding project owners accountable and driving the culture in this direction.

Continuous Improvement & Process Optimization

• Facilitate value stream mapping, root cause analysis, and Kaizen events to identify and eliminate waste.
• Standardize key manufacturing and business processes to improve throughput, quality, and on-time delivery such as 5S, Visual Management, Problem Solving, and Teamwork.
• Develop KPI dashboards and reporting mechanisms to monitor process performance and cost savings.
• Drive implementation of automation, digital tools, and visual management systems to enhance operational visibility.

Change Management & Training

• Serve as a change agent to embed a continuous improvement culture throughout the organization.
• Train and mentor employees at all levels on Lean principles, problem-solving, and performance improvement tools.
• Lead cross-functional workshops and ensure adoption of new processes through effective communication and coaching.

Performance Measurement & Reporting

• Establish and monitor KPIs related to productivity, scrap/rework, lead time, and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).
• Present progress reports and ROI analyses to executive leadership on continuous improvement initiatives.
• Collaborate with Finance to validate and track project cost savings and efficiency gains.

Compliance & Quality Systems Integration

• Ensure improvement initiatives align with AS9100, ISO 9001, and ITAR requirements.
• Support audit readiness through process documentation, risk assessments, and corrective action tracking.
• Partner with Quality and Engineering to enhance defect prevention and process control strategies.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Business, or related field
• 8+ years of experience in manufacturing operations, process improvement, or program management, preferably in the aerospace or defense industry.
• Proven track record leading Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement initiatives with measurable results.
• Experience managing cross-functional projects involving production, engineering, and supply chain.
• Strong knowledge of Lean manufacturing tools (5S, visual management, problem solving, teamwork, value stream mapping, Kaizen, Kanban, DMAIC).
• Proficiency in statistical analysis, process capability studies, and root cause methodologies.
• Excellent communication, facilitation, and leadership skills across all organizational levels.
• Ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously and deliver results within tight deadlines.
• Expertise in project/program management, indirectly managing people, gaining buy-in, and driving projects to completion
• Attention to detail, adaptability, and ability to thrive in a fast-paced production environment
• Certifications: Project Management Professional (PMP) and Lean Six Sigma Green Belt required, Black Belt highly preferred.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

• Primarily an office-based role within a manufacturing or production environment.
• Requires regular movement between office and production areas for coordination
• Ability to sit, stand, and work on a computer for extended periods.
• Occasional light lifting (up to 25 lbs.) and handling of production documents or parts.
• Work performed in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment with moderate exposure to manufacturing noise and activity.

Background Check

This position will require successfully completing a post-offer background check. Qualified candidates with a criminal history will be considered and are not automatically disqualified, consistent with federal and state law.

EEO and ITAR/EAR Work Authorization Disclosure

Red Cat Holdings provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This position requires direct or indirect access to hardware, software, technology or technical data controlled under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Successful candidates for positions subject to ITAR/EAR restrictions must provide proof of U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residence and must not require sponsorship for export-restricted work authorization.

E-Verify

The company participates E-Verify ensure eligibility for employment and compliance with Right to Work rules.

Compensation: $110k - $132k, plus generous annual equity package and potential bonuses.