Senior Operations Engineering Manager

Position SummaryFlightWave, a wholly owned subsidiary of Red Cat Holdings, is seeking an Operations Engineering Manager to lead a multidisciplinary engineering team responsible for supporting the manufacturing, test, and sustainment of drone products. This role ensures production readiness, drives continuous improvement, and maintains alignment between engineering and operations to achieve quality, delivery, and cost objectives.The ideal candidate combines strong technical depth with hands-on leadership and thrives in a fast-paced, high-mix, low-volume manufacturing environment.Essential Duties And ResponsibilitiesTeam Leadership & DevelopmentLead and develop a team of manufacturing, process, test, mechanical, electrical, and software engineersSet clear priorities, goals, and performance expectations aligned with company objectivesCoach team members on problem-solving, root cause analysis, and engineering best practicesBuild cross-functional capability and flexibility within the teamManufacturing & Production SupportEnsure engineering support for daily production activities, resolving issues impacting throughput, yield, and qualityDrive rapid response to production disruptions, including root cause identification and corrective actionsPartner closely with production, supply chain, and quality teams to meet output targetsProcess Development & Continuous ImprovementLead development, validation, and optimization of manufacturing processes and work instructionsDrive Lean manufacturing initiatives and continuous improvement efforts (cycle time, scrap reduction, cost savings)Standardize processes across products and production lines where applicableTest Engineering & Product ValidationOversee development and maintenance of board-level and system-level test strategies and fixturesEnsure robust test coverage, data collection, and traceability for all productsImprove test efficiency, reliability, and throughputSustaining EngineeringManage engineering changes, product updates, and obsolescence issuesEnsure timely resolution of field and production issuesMaintain product performance, reliability, and manufacturability throughout the product lifecycleNew Product Introduction (NPI)Partner with design engineering to ensure smooth transition of new products into productionEnsure Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Test (DFT) principles are implementedLead pilot builds, process validation, and production readiness reviewsCross-Functional CollaborationAct as the primary interface between operations and engineering teamsCollaborate with supply chain on vendor-related issues and material readinessSupport quality initiatives including audits, corrective actions, and complianceRequired QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field (Master’s preferred)8 – 12+ years of engineering experience in manufacturing environments3 – 5+ years of leadership experience managing technical teamsStrong understanding of manufacturing processes, including electromechanical assemblyExperience with test systems, fixtures, and validation methodologiesKnowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement toolsFamiliarity with ERP/MRP systems and production planning environmentsExperience with drones, aerospace, or complex electronic systems preferredPhysical Requirements And Working ConditionsAbility to lift 50lbsStanding for long periods of timeAbility to work in different environments and heatBackground CheckThis position will require successfully completing a post-offer background check. Qualified candidates with a criminal history will be considered and are not automatically disqualified, consistent with federal and state law.EEO and ITAR/EAR Work Authorization DisclosureRed Cat Holdings provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This position requires direct or indirect access to hardware, software, technology or technical data controlled under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Successful candidates for positions subject to ITAR/EAR restrictions must provide proof of U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residence and must not require sponsorship for export-restricted work authorization.E-VerifyThe company participates E-Verify ensure eligibility for employment and compliance with Right to Work rules.Compensation: $132k – $183k, plus generous annual equity package and potential bonuses.