About RJE Oceanbotics
RJE Oceanbotics is a leading manufacturer of professional-grade underwater drones, also called Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs), serving government agencies, military, oil & gas, search and rescue, and infrastructure inspection markets. Our flagship systems — the SRV-8 and SRV-8X — are trusted by operators worldwide in the most demanding subsea environments. We are a fast growing, mission-driven team committed to engineering excellence and continued growth in the global underwater robotics market.
Position Summary
We are seeking an experienced and hands-on Manufacturing Manager to lead all aspects of production operations for our underwater ROV product line. This is a critical leadership role responsible for driving quality, efficiency, and scalability as RJE Oceanbotics grows. The ideal candidate brings deep experience in electronics and mechanical assembly manufacturing, a rigorous approach to quality control, and the ability to build and lead a high-performing production team.
Key Responsibilities
Production Operations
- Oversee end-to-end manufacturing of ROV systems including mechanical assembly, electronics integration, cabling, and final testing
- Develop, implement, and continuously improve production workflows, work instructions, and standard operating procedures (SOPs)
- Plan and manage production schedules to meet delivery commitments and sales forecasts
- Coordinate integration of specialized subsystems including cameras, sensors, thrusters, and control electronics
- Coordinate with engineering to ensure design-for-manufacturability (DFM) principles are applied to new and existing products
Quality Assurance
- Establish and maintain a robust quality management system (QMS) covering incoming inspection, in-process checks, and final acceptance testing
- Investigate and resolve production defects, field returns, and non-conformances using structured root cause analysis methodologies
- Own product quality metrics and drive continuous improvement initiatives to reduce defect rates and warranty claims
Team Leadership
- Recruit, train, mentor, and manage production technicians and assembly staff
- Foster a safety-first culture with strict adherence to workplace safety protocols
- Set performance expectations, conduct reviews, and develop team members for career growth
Supply Chain & Inventory
- Collaborate with procurement to manage component inventory levels, lead times, and supplier quality
- Identify and qualify alternative sources for critical components to mitigate supply chain risk
- Oversee materials management, kitting, and traceability for serialized production units
Facilities & Equipment
- Maintain production equipment, tools, and test fixtures in calibrated and operational condition
- Identify capital equipment needs and develop business cases for investment
- Ensure the production floor is organized, efficient, and audit-ready at all times
Required Qualifications
- Education: Minimum of Bachelors Degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related technical field
- 5+ years of manufacturing management or production supervisory experience in an electronics, defense, marine, or precision hardware environment
- Demonstrated experience managing the production of complex electromechanical assemblies
- Strong understanding of quality systems (ISO 9001 or equivalent) and inspection methodologies
- Proficiency reading and interpreting mechanical drawings, schematics, and assembly documentation
- Hands-on leadership style with the ability to work alongside technicians on the production floor
- Excellent organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills
Preferred Qualifications
- Background in underwater systems, robotics, defense electronics, or marine technology
- Experience scaling a manufacturing operation from prototype to volume production
- Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, or Kaizen certification or training
- Knowledge of potting, pressure housing, or subsea connector systems
- Experience with ERP or production management software
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive base salary commensurate with experience
- Performance-based bonus program
- Health, dental, vision and life insurance
- Retirement 401K program with company match
- Paid time off
- Ten (10) paid company holidays
- Opportunities for professional development and advancement
- The chance to build and lead a manufacturing operation at the cutting edge of underwater robotics
How to Apply
To apply, submit your resume and a brief cover letter describing your relevant manufacturing leadership experience through Indeed.
RJE Oceanbotics is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
Pay: $95,000.00 - $120,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Education:
Experience:
- Manufacturing Manager: 5 years (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
