Photo-Sonics, Inc. is an international leader in state-of-the art optical tracking systems in Chatsworth and has an immediate opening for a Production Manager. We’re seeking a multi-disciplinary candidate who is self-motivated and is able to set and meet goals.
This Production Manager leads manufacturing, assembly, and test operations for specialized low-volume high-precision tracking mount systems (15 – 20 units annually). This role focuses on production execution, process optimization, quality compliance (AS9100), and cross-functional collaboration to ensure tracking mount units are delivered on schedule and within cost limits.
Responsibilities include but not limited to:
Production Execution:
· Oversee daily floor operations, assembly workflows, and test schedules for low-rate, technically-complex builds
Production Scaling:
· Lead production team in planning and executing production scaling from prototype to full-rate-production
· Plan and execute new product prototype builds
Process Optimization:
· Refine manufacturing readiness, drive Design for Manufacturability (DFM) feedback loops, and implement lean practices tailored to small-batch environments
· Implement lean manufacturing practices
· Analyze production data and identify process improvements
Quality & Compliance:
· Partner with quality assurance to resolve Discrepancy Reports (DRs) and root cause/corrective action (RCCA) investigations
· Implement corrective actions to reduce defects, reworks and scraps
Cross-Functional Leadership:
· Coordinate with engineering, quality, materials, and purchasing to resolve production constraints, maintain material flow, mitigate bottlenecks, and manage configurations
· Support smooth prototype-to-production transitions
Team Development/Leadership:
· Mentor and lead production control supervisor, manufacturing engineering supervisor, material manager and production supervisors to foster a culture of safety, accountability, and precision
Planning & Scheduling:
· Oversee production plans and schedules development to align with company strategy and product delivery schedule
· Implement deliberate planning practices to minimize schedule volatility
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP):
· Utilize ERP data to monitor production KPIs
· Generate and summary production reports for the executive team
Requirements:
Education:
· Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial or Manufacturing Engineering (or a related field) - Preferred
Experience:
· 7-10 years of experience in production management
· At least 5+ years of supervisory or team leadership experience in a manufacturing environment
· Experience working in AS9100 / ISO 9001 regulated environments is highly desirable
Desired Skills:
· Deep familiarity with prototype and low-volume production of complex electromechanical systems preferred
· Strong knowledge of production planning, capacity planning, scheduling, and shop floor control
· Experience working with ERP/MRP systems
· Ability to interpret Bills of Materials (BOMs), routings, and work orders.
· Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel for production planning, scheduling analysis, data reporting, and development of dashboards, pivot tables, and data-driven performance metrics
Leadership & Operational Skills:
· Ability to lead and develop production staff (50+ staff)
· Proven ability to manage priorities and resolve schedule conflicts in a fast-paced environment
· Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills related to production flow and material availability
Physical Requirements include:
· Occasional climbing or balancing may be required in lab or field environments.
· Position may require the ability to lift up to 15 lbs., stand, walk for long periods of time
Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $145,000.00 - $160,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Education:
- High school or equivalent (Required)
Experience:
- work experience in a Quality role in manufacturing: 5 years (Required)
Work Location: In person
