Director of Manufacturing

At Turion Space, we’re on a mission to secure Earth and expand humanity’s reach beyond it. Our work is focused on building spacecraft capable of advanced AI-powered missions ranging from national security to in-space servicing, clearing the way for a safer and more sustainable space environment. From orbital logistics to space debris removal, we're creating the critical infrastructure needed for the next era of space operations.

We’re not just building satellites - we’re building the future of in-space mobility and servicing. Our team is fast-moving, ambitious, and driven by the real-world impact of our work. If you’re excited about solving some of the toughest engineering challenges in space and want to help shape an industry from the ground up, come join us.

As a Director of Manufacturing, you will provide critical leadership for the manufacturing of new spacecraft. You will build a cross-functional team, set up and scale new production lines, and ensure delivery of high-performance hardware.

This is a full-time, exempt position based on-site at our Irvine, California headquarters.

• Strategic Planning: Develop and implement manufacturing strategies that meet rapid production needs

• Operational Management: Oversee daily operations, ensuring that all activities are conducted efficiently, safely, and in compliance with industry standards and regulations.

• Process Improvement: Drive continuous improvement initiatives to optimize production processes, reduce costs, and enhance quality and productivity.

• Facility Planning: Develop and optimize floor layouts, assembly lines and workflows.

• Capacity Planning: Select and manage production resources, including new machinery, tools, and materials.

• Team Leadership: Hire, mentor, and develop a cross-functional, high-performing team. Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and innovation.

• Quality Assurance: Lead root cause/corrective action investigations. Implement and monitor quality control processes and address any quality issues promptly.

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, or a related field.

• 10+ years of experience in manufacturing, with a proven track record in leading large-scale manufacturing or production operations.

• In-depth knowledge of manufacturing and assembly processes, supply chain management, and quality control.

• Ability to develop and implement strategic plans and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

• The ability to obtain and maintain a Secret or TS/SCI clearance.

• Expertise in advanced manufacturing techniques, process optimization, and technology integration.

• Prior experience implementing ERP/MRP systems and manufacturing execution systems (MES)

• Relevant certifications in program or operations management (e.g., Six Sigma Black Belt, PMP)

• Experience in aerospace or space technology sectors, particularly with complex, high-precision production environments.

• Proven ability to lead organizational change and manage complex projects.

• Skill interfacing with external vendors, commercial and government entities.

ITAR Requirements:

This position may include access to technology and/or software source code that is subject to U.S. export controls. To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
Benefits:
We offer a comprehensive compensation and benefits package designed to support the well-being and professional growth of our employees. In addition to a competitive base salary and company stock, determined by factors such as job-related knowledge, education, skills, experience, and market demand, full-time employees are eligible for:​

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and their dependents. ​

• Retirement Plans: Access to a 401(k) plan to help you plan for your future. ​

• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation days, personal days, and holidays to ensure you have time to recharge. ​

• Professional Development: Opportunities for ongoing training, workshops, and courses to advance your skills and career growth.

• Team Building Activities: Regular social events, team outings, and company-sponsored activities to foster a positive work environment. ​

We are dedicated to providing a supportive and enriching environment for our team members, recognizing that our collective success is built upon the well-being and satisfaction of each individual.

Turion Space is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Turion Space is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.