Operations Manager (Production and Launch)

Department: Production & Test

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: Hawthorne, California

Reporting To: Clint Ross

Compensation: $135,000 - $170,000 / year

Description

Venturi Astrolab, Inc. (Astrolab) is pioneering new ways to explore and operate on distant planetary bodies. We are singularly focused on designing, building, and operating a fleet of multi-purpose commercial planetary rovers to extend and enhance humanity’s presence in the solar system. We are seeking motivated, creative, and exceptional people to join our world-class team.   

We are seeking a highly driven Operations Manager to lead production and launch site operations that will oversee end-to-end manufacturing, integration, and launch operations for our cutting-edge lunar rover program. This role will lead all production floor activities, coordinate multi-disciplinary teams, ensure readiness for launch campaigns, and manage the operational infrastructure required to deliver mission-critical hardware on time and to the highest quality standards.

The ideal candidate thrives at the intersection of aerospace manufacturing, systems integration, and launch logistics, with a proven ability to project manage and lead teams in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment.

What you'll do:

Production & Integration Management · Oversee daily production operations, including machining, assembly, integration, and upstream testing of lunar rover hardware· Ensure adherence to manufacturing schedules, quality standards, and safety regulations· Coordinate with engineering, supply chain, and quality assurance to resolve technical issues rapidly· Implement Lean/6S manufacturing principles to optimize efficiency and reduce waste · Maintain adherence to AS9100 standards· Balance development initiatives with production goals

Launch Site Operations · Planning and coordination of flight article transportation, staging, and launch preparation 
· Oversee ground support equipment (GSE) readiness and allocation· Coordinate launch campaign activities with mission control, range operations, and logistics partners
· Manage coordination and team execution at the launch site, including coordination with the launch provider, setup planning, staffing, and compliance with safety protocols

Team Leadership & Coordination
· Direct cross-functional teams, including production technicians, avionics, test engineers, and launch crews
· Foster a safety-first culture and enforce workplace safety policies
· Mentor and train staff to develop operational excellence and mission readiness skills

Operational Planning & Reporting
· Develop and track key performance indicators (KPIs) for production and launch readiness 
· Manage budgets, staffing plans, and resource allocation for both production and launch site  operations
· Provide regular updates to senior leadership on schedule, risks, and mitigation strategies

What you'll bring:

Required
· Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Aerospace Technology, or related  field (or equivalent experience)
· 7+ years of experience in aerospace, spacecraft, or high-tech manufacturing operations
· Proven leadership in production, integration, and/or launch site management. 
· Strong knowledge of aerospace hardware handling, cleanroom operations, industry standard  manufacturing processes, and flight hardware verification
· Experience with Lean manufacturing, 6S, and continuous improvement methods. 
· Exceptional communication and cross-team coordination skills

Preferred
· Experience with lunar surface mission hardware or robotic rover systems
· Familiarity with launch site operations and coordination with space launch providers
· PMP or similar project management certification
· Experience with taking a product through development to NPI production

What we offer:

• Work with a team of best-in-class engineers building the foundation of planetary surface exploration
• Ownership in the company
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) with matching
• Flexible time off and parental leave
• On-site snacks, beverages, and 2x weekly lunches
• Flexible work environment