Operations Manager

Job Title: Operations Program Manager

Job Description

The Operations Program Manager leads day-to-day operational execution for Space Electronic Systems across manufacturing operations. This role oversees and coordinates cross-functional programs, driving process improvements and ensuring operational goals are achieved efficiently and effectively. The Operations Program Manager partners closely with production, supply chain, quality assurance, and engineering teams to align activities with business objectives and deliver high-quality results on time and within budget.

Responsibilities

• Plan, execute, and oversee multiple operational programs, ensuring alignment with strategic goals and timely delivery of objectives.

• Coordinate and facilitate cross-functional collaboration between production, supply chain, quality, and engineering to ensure seamless program execution.

• Develop, monitor, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure program success and operational effectiveness.

• Provide regular updates to leadership on program status, risks, milestones, and outcomes.

• Allocate and manage resources, including personnel, equipment, and budget, to meet program objectives and maintain operational efficiency.

• Ensure teams are properly staffed, supported, and equipped to deliver high-quality results.

• Identify potential program and operational risks, develop mitigation strategies, and proactively address issues that arise during execution.

• Maintain clear, consistent communication with stakeholders at all levels to manage expectations and keep all parties informed of progress.

• Develop and manage program budgets, ensuring financial targets are met and resources are used effectively and responsibly.

• Identify, propose, and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve product quality.

• Apply Lean, Six Sigma, and other process improvement methodologies to optimize manufacturing and operational processes.

• Foster and promote a culture of continuous improvement within the operations organization.

• Lead initiatives focused on optimizing processes, enhancing operational performance, and supporting long-term business growth.

• Ensure operational programs support safety, quality, and compliance requirements in a manufacturing environment.

• Perform other related duties as assigned to support operations and program objectives.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations, Business Administration, or a related field.

• 9+ years of related experience with a bachelor’s degree, or 7+ years of related experience with a graduate degree.

• Experience in engineering, operations, program management, or a related field within a design or manufacturing environment.

• Proven experience managing complex, cross-functional projects and programs.

• Strong operations management and program management capabilities.

• Excellent project management skills, including planning, scheduling, and risk management.

• Strong organizational abilities with the capacity to manage multiple concurrent initiatives.

• Proficiency in process improvement methodologies such as Lean and Six Sigma.

• Experience with continuous improvement initiatives in a manufacturing or operations setting.

• Familiarity with Space Flight products and related manufacturing environments.

• Experience using ERP systems to support operations and program management.

• Proficiency with project management software tools.

• Ability to work with data analysis tools to interpret operational data and drive decisions.

• Strong communication skills to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and stakeholders.

• Commitment to safety, quality, and operational excellence in production environments.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• PMP (Project Management Professional) certification or equivalent.

• Lean Six Sigma certification or equivalent process improvement credential.

• Experience in production supervision within manufacturing operations.

• Knowledge of Lean manufacturing principles and their application on the shop floor.

• Experience establishing and tracking KPIs to measure operational performance.

• Experience in engineering disciplines related to electronic or space systems is beneficial.

• Ability to drive continuous improvement initiatives and influence change across teams.

• leadership.

• Demonstrated ability to balance budget, schedule, and quality in complex programs.

Why Work Here?

You join a growing organization in a booming industry that offers strong long-term job security and the opportunity to work on impactful, cutting-edge technologies. The company provides great benefits and invests in continuous improvement, creating an environment where you can develop professionally, contribute to meaningful programs, and grow your career as the business expands and acquires new capabilities.

Work Environment

This role operates across two facilities in the Fairfax and Chantilly, VA area, providing exposure to diverse operational settings and teams. You work in a cleanroom environment when required, supporting Space Electronic Systems manufacturing and related processes. The position involves close collaboration with production, engineering, supply chain, and quality teams, using ERP systems, project management software, and data analysis tools to manage programs and drive improvements. The environment emphasizes safety, quality, and continuous improvement, with a professional atmosphere focused on precision, reliability, and operational excellence.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Chantilly, VA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $70.00 - $85.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Chantilly,VA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Sep 2, 2026.

About Aerotek

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):

We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.