Manufacturing Readiness Leader


 

Beehive Industries is dedicated to Powering American Defense by revolutionizing the design, development, and delivery of jet propulsion systems to support the warfighter. Through the integration of additive manufacturing, the company aims to meet the growing and urgent needs for unmanned aerial defense by dramatically improving a jet engine’s speed to market, fuel efficiency, and cost. 
 
Founded in 2020, the company is headquartered in Centennial, Colorado, with additional facilities in Knoxville, Tennessee, Cincinnati, Ohio, and Mount Vernon, Ohio. Beehive is committed to grow and advance the defense industrial base while manufacturing exclusively in the USA. This role will be based in our Knoxville, facility.



  

 



Role Overview:


At Beehive Industries, we believe there is a better way to meet our clients' needs. Through Additive Manufacturing, Beehive Industries helps clients achieve more than what has ever been thought possible. We are seeking a Manufacturing Readiness Leader, who will be responsible for driving the readiness of manufacturing and supply chain operations for new product introductions, process improvements, and changes in production requirements. This includes overseeing the design, development, implementation, and optimization of manufacturing systems, processes, and equipment to ensure operational efficiency and product quality. The role requires a deep understanding of manufacturing workflows, project management, and cross-functional collaboration. 



Key Responsibilities:


Manufacturing Readiness Management:

  • Manage the creation and execution of manufacturing readiness plans, ensuring successful transitions from development to full-scale production.
  • Ensure that production timelines, quality standards, and cost targets are met, and proactively identify potential risks or challenges.

Process & System Optimization:

  • Oversee the development and optimization of manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and ensure product quality.
  • Work with engineering and operations teams to identify and implement continuous improvement initiatives (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma) to drive operational excellence.
  • Conduct root cause analysis for manufacturing issues and implement corrective actions.

Cross-Functional Collaboration:

  • Act as a key liaison between manufacturing, engineering, quality, supply chain, and other functional teams to ensure smooth communication and coordination for product launches and production ramp-ups.
  • Participate in project meetings to ensure alignment on timelines, resources, and deliverables.
  • Provide technical leadership and guidance on manufacturing capabilities and constraints.

Compliance & Quality Assurance:

  • Ensure that all manufacturing operations comply with industry regulations, safety standards, and quality systems (e.g., ISO, GMP).
  • Work closely with the quality team to develop and implement quality control plans and procedures.

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
  • 7+ years of experience in manufacturing operations, including leadership roles in production readiness, process optimization, or new product introduction.
  • Experience working within Aerospace & Defense or DOD compliant ecosystem
  • Experience in Additive Manufacturing or CNC Machining
  • Proven track record of successful project management and cross-functional team leadership.
  • Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, quality systems, and lean manufacturing principles.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Excellent project management and organizational skills.
  • Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
  • Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across multiple teams.
  • Proficient in using manufacturing software and tools (e.g., ERP systems, MS Project, etc.).

If this sounds like you, please submit an application with your resume. This could be the opportunity you are looking for to expand your skills, contribute to a winning team, and work with talented people who love what they do and take pride in our mission. 



Beehive Industries offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes group Medical, Dental, Life, and Short and Long-Term disability coverage from day one. We also offer a generous 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with a Company match. Every role at Beehive Industries is bonus eligible, and will also receive equity in the company.


Beehive Industries is committed to full compliance with applicable anti-discrimination laws. We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We strive to create an inclusive work environment and will not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. 

Operations

Knoxville, TN

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