R&D Manufacturing Director

Job TitleR&D Manufacturing DirectorLocationHerndon, VA - Herndon, VA 20171 US (Primary)Job DescriptionFibertek is seeking a hands-on R&D Manufacturing Director to lead manufacturing of first-of-kind prototypes, demonstration units, and initial low-rate production units for laser and electro-optical systems used in aerospace and space programs. This includes deliverable engineering development units (EDUs) and flight units as well as low-rate initial production. In addition to manufacturing execution, this role oversees production planning, Assembly Integration and Test (AI&T) processes, and manufacturing engineering across the R&D organization. This is not a purely managerial role. The Director will be actively involved in day-to-day manufacturing execution while improving Fibertek’s manufacturing capability, including updating core processes, leading implementation efforts for a Manufacturing Execution System (MES), and helping to scale production capacity. The role serves as the operational link between engineering, configuration management, quality, supply chain, planning, and the build teams.Job Duties and Responsibilities: Shop & Operations OwnershipProvide technical & execution oversight of production shops, including optical and electronics assembly, parts cleaning, and machine shop operationsIdentify constraints and drive improvements across the production floorProduction Planning & ExecutionDevelop work instructions in collaboration with design engineers that result in efficient assembly and testing with predictable hardware delivery outcomes Ensure build packages, travelers, drawings, and procedures are complete, controlled, and build-readyEnsure build schedules and resources are realistic and executableServe as the primary escalation point for manufacturing execution issuesManufacturing Engineering & Process ImprovementResponsible for Design for Manufacturing (DFM) feedback and definition of build strategy and flow.Standardize and continuously improve manufacturing processes for repeatability, traceability, and throughputSelect, implement, and operationalize a Manufacturing Execution System (MES) aligned with optical and laser manufacturing needsResolve nonconformances and production issues using structured root cause analysisAI&T Process OwnershipServe as the process owner from released design through assembly & integrationAct as the integration point between engineering, configuration management, quality, safety & mission assurance, supply chain, planning, and buildersFacilities & Team LeadershipLead and develop the manufacturing engineering team while remaining hands-onPartner with leadership to plan facility improvements aligned with future program needsJob RequirementsExperience and Expertise Required:10–15 years of experience in manufacturing engineering or production leadershipExperience with optical, laser, electro-optical, aerospace, or space-qualified hardware Experience with transitioning new engineering designs through prototype, manufacturing development, and initial production phasesDirect experience with AI&T and controlled build environmentsStrong understanding of configuration control, build documentation, and traceabilityExperience with an ERP system such as Deltek CostpointExperience in an ISO-9001 (or AS9100) certified manufacturing environmentBachelor’s degree in a technical discipline (engineering preferred)Proven hands-on leadership styleSuccess in This Role Looks Like:AI&T activities are disciplined, repeatable, and audit-ready Manufacturing issues are identified as early as possible, and resolved quickly Hardware transitions smoothly from engineering into productionManufacturing lessons learned are documented and applied organization-wide resulting in continuous improvement and long-term gains in production efficiencySalary Range: The annual base salary range for this position is $150,000-$225,000. This range reflects the compensation Fibertek reasonably expects to offer for this role. Placement within the range will depend on factors such as the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate’s experience, education and training, key skills, and relevant market and business considerations.Benefits offered: The company provides a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage; disability, life insurance, and AD&D; a 401(k) plan with a company match and immediate vesting; Flexible Spending Accounts and Health Savings Accounts; an Employee Assistance Program; education assistance; paid time off and holidays; flexible work schedules; and a 9/8/80 alternate workweek option. FIBERTEK, Inc. is a recognized leader in advanced lasers, lidars and laser communication systems providing our DoD, NASA and aerospace customers discriminating capabilities. We pride ourselves in our innovation and customer success focused culture enabled by a creative and relaxed work environment. Fibertek fosters a progressive learning environment that values inspiration, promotes professional challenge and encourages personal growth. We offer a competitive and incentivized compensation package with excellent benefits. Fibertek, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment based on individual merit, skills, and experience. Fibertek does not engage in nor permits any discrimination in the workplace.-