Job Summary:

Mercury Systems is seeking a highly experienced and dynamic operations leader to serve as Sr. Manager, Factory Operations. In this role you will lead the planning, design, startup, and ongoing operations of a new factory in Phoenix, as we expand our footprint. You will be responsible for building high-performing teams, establishing processes, managing operational readiness, ensuring compliance, and delivering production capability aligned with business goals, including quality, cost, delivery, and continuous improvement.

 

The ideal candidate is someone who thrives in a culture where you can make an immediate impact, requiring you to adapt and pivot in a fast-paced, changing environment.  This is a is a roll-up-your sleeves, hands-on people leader position.

 

Job Responsibilities:

Lead all aspects of new factory build-out: facility layout, equipment selection & procurement, utilities, infrastructure, safety, and regulatory compliance Develop and manage the startup schedule—site preparation, hiring & training, commissioning, validation, ramps to full production Coordinate with engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, quality, safety, facilities, and HR to ensure alignment and readiness Oversee daily factory operations: production, maintenance, quality assurance, materials handling, and continuous improvement. Develop, monitor, and ensure achievement of key operational metrics (KPIs): throughput, yield, on-time delivery, cost per unit, scrap/waste, equipment utilization, etc. Implement Lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, TPM, 5S, SMED, etc., to drive efficiency, reduce waste and improve quality Recruit, develop, and lead a cross-functional operations team (production managers/supervisors, process engineers, quality and maintenance leads, safety personnel) Define roles & responsibilities; develop training programs; build culture of accountability, safety, quality, and continuous improvement Establish standard work, SOPs, work instructions, and workflows Implement appropriate ERP / MES systems for production planning, scheduling, data collection, traceability Ensure compliance with relevant defense / aerospace regulations and standards (e.g. AS9100), export controls, environmental, safety, and health regulations Collaborate with supply chain to optimize inventory levels, work-in-process (WIP) and manage program material requirements Develop and manage factory operations budgets; track cost drivers; identify opportunities for cost savings and margin expansion Lead continuous improvement initiatives; identify process bottlenecks; drive root cause analysis and corrective actions Report regularly to senior leadership on startup status, operational metrics, risks, and mitigation plans Serve as the primary operations liaison with internal stakeholders (engineering, product, quality, finance) and with external partners (vendors, contractors)

Required Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, or related field Ideally 10+ years in manufacturing / factory operations in high-mix / low-volume or high-complexity environments along with specific experience in setting up new manufacturing facilities (site selection, build-out, commissioning, ramp-up) Deep knowledge / track record implementing Lean, Six Sigma, TPM, 5S, etc. Strong analytical skills; ability to use metrics to drive decision making Experience with ERP/MRP systems (Oracle), manufacturing execution systems, ability to drive digitalization of operations Understanding of key manufacturing processes relevant to Mercury Systems (e.g. electronics / microelectronics, packaging, test/assembly) Strong people leadership—building teams, coaching, training. Ability to lead cross-functional teams and influence without direct authority.

Preferred Qualifications:

Certifications in Lean, Six Sigma (Green Belt / Black Belt), operational excellence preferred Prior experience in defense / aerospace or similarly regulated industries preferred Strong project management skills; experience managing large capital projects Excellent communication and stakeholder management; ability to articulate status, issues, risk to senior leadership Comfortable in high-pressure, fast-paced environments; adaptability & problem-solving mindset Advanced degree / Masters

Location:

This is an on-site position in our Phoenix, AZ location. Enjoy every other Friday off with our 9/80 work schedule!

This position requires you to access information that is subject to U.S. export regulations.  You may only access such information if you are a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. government.