Value Stream Manager

AT3 Staffing is excited to partner with a leading aerospace and defense manufacturer in search of an experienced Value Stream Manager II or III to lead a critical manufacturing value stream and drive operational excellence. This is an exciting opportunity for a hands-on operations leader to influence safety, quality, delivery, cost, inventory, and growth while leading cross-functional teams in a highly technical manufacturing environment. The Value Stream Manager will play a key role in shaping the future of the value stream by developing and executing strategic improvement initiatives, strengthening operational performance, and building a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. This leader will work closely with Engineering, Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Quality, Finance, Program Management, and Business Unit leadership to align resources and drive measurable business results. JOB SUMMARY The Value Stream Manager (VSM) is responsible for ensuring customer satisfaction by leading a cross-functional team in the execution of the Annual Operating Plan (AOP), with a focus on Safety, Quality, Delivery, Cost, Inventory, and Growth . The VSM is accountable for the long-term financial and operational performance of the assigned value stream. This includes aligning operations with business needs, driving growth, establishing a strategic vision for the future state, and developing and executing continuous improvement roadmaps. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Cross-Functional Leadership Lead and collaborate with key business functions, including Order Management, Supply Chain, Scheduling, Manufacturing and Design Engineering, Quality, Finance, Program Management, and Business Unit leadership. Provide direction, guidance, and accountability to individuals from these functions supporting the value stream. Align cross-functional resources around operational priorities, customer requirements, and business objectives. Foster a collaborative, accountable, and customer-focused culture across the value stream. Operational Performance & Accountability Drive accountability for daily performance reporting and problem-solving related to key performance indicators, including Safety, Quality, Delivery, Cost, Inventory, and Growth. Monitor operational performance and identify opportunities to improve productivity, efficiency, quality, and customer satisfaction. Develop and execute action plans to address performance gaps and achieve operational objectives. Maintain a strong focus on on-time delivery, operational costs, product quality, and overall financial performance. Continuous Improvement & Lean Manufacturing Lead and facilitate Kaizen events to drive continuous improvement, productivity initiatives, and Lean manufacturing practices. Own, develop, and execute the continuous improvement roadmap in alignment with the organization's future-state vision. Identify opportunities to improve processes, eliminate waste, increase efficiency, and strengthen operational performance. Support Lean initiatives including 5S, KPI management, Standard Work, structured problem-solving, and other continuous improvement activities. Champion a culture of continuous improvement throughout the value stream. Leadership & Talent Development Develop, mentor, and empower associates to maximize their potential and build a highly skilled, motivated, and customer-focused team. Establish clear expectations for performance, accountability, and professional development. Identify opportunities to strengthen organizational capabilities and develop future leaders. Promote a culture centered on teamwork, ownership, problem-solving, and operational excellence. Financial & Strategic Leadership Participate in annual budget preparation and long-term capital planning to support operational and strategic objectives. Align value stream resources and investments with business priorities and future-state goals. Develop strategic plans that support long-term growth and financial performance. Identify opportunities to improve operational costs, resource utilization, and overall value stream profitability. Support growth planning and strategic business initiatives. Executive & Customer Communication Prepare and present value stream performance summaries, business results, and improvement initiatives to executive leadership. Communicate operational performance, challenges, and opportunities effectively across the organization. Participate in customer meetings and provide updates on performance and strategic initiatives as required. Safety & Compliance Promote a strong safety culture and ensure compliance with applicable OSHA standards and organizational safety policies. Ensure employees follow established safe work practices and required procedures. Support a safe, clean, and productive manufacturing environment. Maintain compliance with applicable quality, regulatory, and customer requirements. Additional Responsibilities Support broader organizational operational excellence initiatives and business-system requirements. Take on additional responsibilities and special projects as assigned by leadership. KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES Major areas of accountability include, but are not limited to: Associate safety Operational costs and financial performance Inventory management Productivity and continuous improvement Growth planning Development of high-performing teams MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Experience 5+ years of experience directly supporting manufacturing or operations. 3+ years of supervisory or leadership experience. 10+ years of experience directly supporting operations in areas such as Production Control, Manufacturing Engineering, or Operations Management. 3+ years of Value Stream Management experience. Knowledge Strong knowledge of complex manufacturing and production processes within highly regulated environments. Experience with hydraulics, valves, control systems, etc., is strongly preferred. Understanding of quality control, operational costs, productivity, and techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of products. Strong business acumen Knowledge of business and management principles related to strategic planning, resource allocation, leadership, and coordination of people and resources. Familiarity with Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies. Skills & Abilities Strong critical-thinking and analytical skills. Excellent time management and sense of urgency. Strong complex problem-solving capabilities. Sound judgment and decision-making skills. Strong interpersonal and communication skills. Ability to lead cross-functional teams and influence without direct authority. Ability to balance strategic priorities with day-to-day operational demands. Strong customer and business focus. Education Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing, Engineering, Operations, Business, or a related field. Eligibility Requirement This position may require access to Controlled Data or Information. Where the position requires such access, only U.S. Persons will be considered. As a U.S. Department of Defense contractor, the organization is subject to International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). WORKING CONDITIONS Work is performed primarily within a manufacturing environment. Manufacturing operations may require the use of safety equipment, including safety glasses, gowns, masks, hearing protection, heel/wrist straps, and other required PPE. May be exposed to environmental conditions including loud noise, cold temperatures, confined spaces, dust, or fumes. Up to 5% travel may be required. Approximately 80% sitting and 20% standing, depending on work activities. May occasionally lift up to 25 pounds. May occasionally push up to 75 pounds. Frequent use of computers and other standard office technology. Work environment may include a combination of office/cubicle and manufacturing floor settings. WHY CONSIDER THIS OPPORTUNITY? This is an opportunity to take ownership of a critical manufacturing value stream within an established aerospace and defense organization. The successful leader will have the opportunity to influence operational strategy, develop talented teams, drive Lean transformation, and make a measurable impact on safety, quality, delivery, cost, and growth. If you are an operations or manufacturing leader who enjoys solving complex problems, developing people, and turning strategic objectives into measurable results, this could be an excellent opportunity to take the next step in your career. #J-18808-Ljbffr