Production Manager

Job Description

Job Description

Location: Clearwater, FL
Job Type: Full-Time
Work Arrangement: Onsite

Nokturnal AI is a rapidly growing defense technology company designing and manufacturing advanced autonomous systems, unmanned aircraft, and AI-enabled technologies for government and commercial customers. As demand for our products continues to grow, we're looking for a hands-on Production Manager to help build scalable manufacturing operations that support the next phase of our growth.

This is not a role for someone who wants to manage from behind a desk. We're looking for a leader who enjoys being on the production floor, solving problems alongside technicians, improving manufacturing processes, and developing high-performing teams.

If you're passionate about Lean Manufacturing, continuous improvement, and building efficient production systems in a fast-paced, high-growth environment, we'd love to meet you.

What You'll Do

As Production Manager, you'll oversee day-to-day manufacturing operations while helping transform our production processes into a scalable, world-class manufacturing operation.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Lead and supervise daily manufacturing operations and production personnel.
• Work directly on the production floor to identify inefficiencies and implement practical solutions.
• Develop, improve, and standardize manufacturing processes to support business growth.
• Build scalable production workflows that improve throughput, quality, and efficiency.
• Establish production priorities and coordinate schedules to meet customer delivery commitments.
• Collaborate closely with Engineering to improve manufacturability and transition products from prototype to production.
• Partner with Supply Chain to ensure material availability and resolve production constraints.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and implement corrective actions to improve productivity.
• Drive Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives throughout the organization.
• Reduce waste, improve labor utilization, and optimize production flow.
• Develop and maintain manufacturing work instructions, procedures, and process documentation.
• Support quality initiatives and maintain compliance with AS9100 quality standards and company procedures.
• Ensure a safe manufacturing environment by promoting OSHA compliance and company safety practices.
• Recruit, train, coach, and mentor production employees while fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
• Prepare production reports and communicate manufacturing performance to leadership.
• Support new product introductions and manufacturing readiness activities.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

What We're Looking For

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing, Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, Business, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive manufacturing leadership experience .
• Experience leading production teams in a manufacturing environment.
• Proven success implementing Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Experience scaling manufacturing operations to support business growth.
• Strong understanding of production planning, scheduling, capacity planning, and workflow optimization.
• Experience improving manufacturing efficiency through process analysis and data-driven decision-making.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, assembly instructions, and manufacturing documentation.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent leadership, coaching, and employee development abilities.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to provide constructive feedback and build collaborative relationships across departments.
• Experience working cross-functionally with Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, and Program Management.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and ERP/MRP systems.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in aerospace, defense, robotics, electronics, or unmanned systems manufacturing.
• Experience supporting AS9100-certified manufacturing environments.
• Lean Six Sigma certification or equivalent continuous improvement training.
• Experience with manufacturing startups or rapidly scaling organizations.
• Familiarity with government contracting and defense manufacturing requirements.

Why Join Nokturnal AI?

You'll have the opportunity to help build the manufacturing organization behind cutting-edge autonomous systems that support critical defense and commercial missions. Your work will directly influence how products are built, how teams operate, and how the company scales for future growth.

We offer:

• Competitive compensation
• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
• 401(k) with company match (when eligible)
• Paid Time Off and company holidays
• Professional development and training opportunities
• A collaborative environment where innovation and continuous improvement are encouraged

Work Environment

• This is a full-time onsite position located in Clearwater, Florida.
• Daily work on the manufacturing floor with regular interaction with engineering, warehouse, and production teams.
• Occasional extended hours may be required to meet production schedules or customer deadlines.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the production facility.
• Frequently bend, kneel, reach, and lift materials or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds .
• Work safely around manufacturing equipment, tools, and machinery.
• Use computers and manufacturing software for planning, reporting, and documentation.
• Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) in designated production areas.

Security Requirements

This position supports U.S. Government programs. The selected candidate must be eligible to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance and satisfy applicable export control requirements.

Nokturnal AI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other status protected by law.

Nokturnal AI is an advanced technology company focused on developing cutting-edge systems in aerospace, AI/ML, and defense-related integration. Our work centers on building high-performance, mission-critical solutions with a strong emphasis on innovation, precision, and operational excellence.

Company Description

Nokturnal AI is an advanced technology company focused on developing cutting-edge systems in aerospace, AI/ML, and defense-related integration. Our work centers on building high-performance, mission-critical solutions with a strong emphasis on innovation, precision, and operational excellence.