Developmental Operations Manager

Anduril Industries is a defense technology company with a mission to transform U.S. and allied military capabilities with advanced technology. By bringing the expertise, technology, and business model of the 21st century’s most innovative companies to the defense industry, Anduril is changing how military systems are designed, built and sold. Anduril’s family of systems is powered by Lattice OS, an AI‑powered operating system that turns thousands of data streams into a realtime, 3‑D command and control center. As the world enters an era of strategic competition, Anduril is committed to bringing cutting‑edge autonomy, AI, computer vision, sensor fusion, and networking technology to the military in months, not years. ABOUT THE TEAM Anduril Rocket Motor Systems is seeking an accomplished Manager of Development Operations to oversee the development manufacturing activities of Rocket Motor Systems at our state‑of‑the‑art facilities. In this strategic role, you will be instrumental in establishing, managing, and optimizing developmental operations processes for our cutting‑edge rocket motor systems, ensuring top‑tier quality and efficiency while preparing for the transition to full‑rate production. WHAT YOU’LL DO Embrace the ownership and leadership for the growth of developmental operations to include maturing processes, improving workflows, and defining systems in alignment with Anduril’s rigorous AS9100 quality management system, EHS systems, and drive efficiency improvements through continuous improvement efforts. Functions will include: Tooling design and fabrication Chemical manufacturing Testing Hardware integration Electrical Engineering Systems Managing a diverse organization of 50+ engineers, technicians, and operators across multiple shifts as well as weekends. Drive the strategic planning and execution of production schedules, ensuring timely delivery of rocket motor systems to meet customer requirements and contractual obligations. Implement best practices for lean manufacturing and continuous improvement to optimize production operations and reduce costs. Collaborate closely with engineering, quality assurance, supply chain, and program management teams to ensure alignment with operations capacity so as to deliver seamless integration of new products and technologies into the production line. Partner with the EHS team to develop and maintain a robust safety program, ensuring compliance with industry regulations and company policies to maintain a safe working environment. Manage and mentor a team of production leaders and supervisors, operators, and support staff, fostering a culture of excellence and accountability. Oversee professional development of the teams including succession planning, individual growth, and talent retention/acquisition. Leverage ERP/MES capabilities to create detailed reports and analyses on production metrics, identifying trends and recommending solutions to enhance operational performance. Serve as the primary point of contact for all matters related to developmental operations, liaising with internal stakeholders and external partners. QUALIFICATIONS Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field; Master’s degree or MBA preferred. Minimum of 7 years of experience in production or manufacturing management within the aerospace, defense, energetics, or related industry. Proven track record of successfully leading low rate production operations of highly hazardous materials with a focus on EHS, quality, efficiency, and scalability. Strong leadership skills with experience in team building, coaching, and performance management. In‑depth knowledge of lean manufacturing principles, process improvement, and production planning. Excellent problem‑solving abilities and decision‑making skills. Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively at all levels of the organization and with external partners. U.S. Person status is required as this position needs to access export‑controlled data. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS Experience with rocket motor systems or similar high‑complexity defense products. Experience with managing teams of 25 or more individuals. 10 years of experience in production or manufacturing management within the aerospace, defense, energetics, or related industry. Familiarity with AS9100 or similar quality management systems. Active security clearance or ability to obtain one. US Salary Range $114,000—$171,000 USD The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offer may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and/or training, critical skills, and/or business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in the majority of full‑time offers; and are considered part of Anduril’s total compensation package. Additionally, Anduril offers top‑tier benefits for full‑time employees, including: Platinum Healthcare Benefits: For U.S. roles, we offer comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans at little to no cost to you. For UK roles, Private Medical Insurance (PMI): Anduril will cover the full cost of the insurance premium for an employee and dependents. For AUS roles, Private health plan through Bupa: Coverage is fully subsidized by Anduril. Basic Life/AD&D and long‑term disability insurance 100% covered by Anduril, plus the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your dependents. Extremely generous company holiday calendar including a holiday hiatus in December, and highly competitive PTO plans. 16 weeks of paid Caregiver & Wellness Leave to care for a family member, bond with your baby, or tend to your own medical condition. Family Planning & Parenting Support: Fertility (eg, IVF, preservation), adoption, and gestational carrier coverage with additional benefits and resources to provide support from planning to parenting. Mental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy, life coaching, and more. Additional work‑life services, such as free legal and financial support, available to you as well. A professional development stipend is available to all Andurilians. Daily Meals and Provisions: For many of our offices this means breakfast, lunch and fully stocked micro‑kitchens. Company‑funded commuter benefits available based on your region. Relocation assistance (depending on role eligibility). 401(k) retirement savings plan - both a traditional and Roth 401(k). (US roles only) To view Anduril’s candidate data privacy policy, please visit Anduril is an equal‑opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. The Anduril team is made up of incredibly talented and unique individuals, who together are disrupting industry norms by creating new paths towards the future of defense technology. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process. If you are someone passionate about working on problems that have a real‑world impact, we’d love to hear from you! #J-18808-Ljbffr