Job Title: Production Lead
Industry: Defense Aerospace Manufacturing

On-site Location: Stafford, VA (up 10% travel)

Relocation Provided: No

Salary Range: $90,000–$105,000

Job Overview:

Opportunity with a growing defense manufacturing organization for a Production Lead who will serve as the Production Manager’s right-hand leader on the manufacturing floor. This role is responsible for supporting daily production operations, driving safety and quality initiatives, coordinating workflow and staffing, and helping ensure production schedules and delivery goals are achieved in a fast-paced, highly regulated environment.

The Production Lead will work cross-functionally with Production, Engineering, Quality, Warehouse, and ATP teams while helping mentor and develop production personnel.

Minimum Requirements:

• 4+ years of manufacturing/production experience
• Experience in aerospace, defense, electronics, or other complex manufacturing environments
• Experience with mechanical/electrical assembly and troubleshooting
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles and continuous improvement initiatives
• Familiarity with ATP/test operations and quality systems
• Experience working in AS9100 or ISO-regulated manufacturing environments
• Previous leadership or team lead experience within a manufacturing environment
• Ability to lead daily production floor operations and support production scheduling
• Experience working in fast-paced manufacturing environments with strong attention to safety and quality
• Strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to read and follow technical documentation and work instructions
• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office and ERP/MRP systems
• Must be able to work on-site and live within 45 minutes of the office

Preferred Requirements:

• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing, Engineering, Business Management, Industrial Technology, or related field

Responsibilities:

• Lead daily production floor activities and support the execution of production schedules
• Coordinate assembly, integration, and ATP priorities with production teams
• Monitor staffing, workflow, and material availability to minimize downtime
• Support achievement of production targets, delivery schedules, and operational goals
• Escalate production issues, shortages, and technical concerns to leadership
• Train and mentor production employees on safety, quality, and workmanship standards
• Support onboarding and cross-training initiatives for manufacturing personnel
• Ensure compliance with quality standards, manufacturing procedures, and documentation requirements
• Promote a strong safety culture and enforce PPE and safety procedures
• Participate in safety audits, meetings, and continuous improvement initiatives
• Assist with Lean Manufacturing and process improvement projects
• Support organization and visual management efforts across production areas