Production Manager

Production Manager

Midland, Texas, United States

AST SpaceMobile is building the first and only global cellular broadband network in space to operate directly with standard, unmodified mobile devices based on our extensive IP and patent portfolio and designed for both commercial and government applications. Our engineers and space scientists are on a mission to eliminate the connectivity gaps faced by today's five billion mobile subscribers and finally bring broadband to the billions who remain unconnected.

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.