Director of Manufacturing Engineering

Union Technologies is reindustrializing America’s defense manufacturing base with a first-of-its-kind Factories-as-a-Stockpile model, integrating advanced robotics, manufacturing, and software into sovereign factory systems at scale. Headquartered in Dallas, Texas, UNION is dedicated to restoring America’s industrial strength and guaranteeing deterrence for the century ahead.

We recently emerged from stealth with $50M in funding led by top-tier venture investors and strategic partners. Read more in our Press Release

Director of Manufacturing

(Strategic Leadership | Defense Manufacturing | Operational Excellence)

Position Summary:

We are seeking a visionary Director of Manufacturing Engineering to lead our advanced manufacturing operations in producing mission-critical defense components. Reporting directly to senior leadership, you will oversee the full spectrum of manufacturing strategy—from scaling operations and capacity planning to implementing best-in-class manufacturing practices. Your leadership will drive operational excellence, strategic growth, and continuous improvement, ensuring our products meet the highest standards of quality, precision, and reliability.

This role requires a seasoned manufacturing leader who thrives in high-stakes environments, brings strategic clarity, and has a proven track record of delivering measurable performance improvements.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership & Planning:

• Develop and execute a comprehensive manufacturing strategy that aligns operational capabilities with organizational growth targets and defense market demands.

• Oversee strategic facility expansions, capital investments, and technology roadmaps to sustain competitive advantages.

Operational Excellence:

• Direct daily manufacturing operations, establishing rigorous performance metrics to optimize throughput, quality, and cost efficiency.

• Implement and sustain Lean Manufacturing principles, Six Sigma methodologies, and continuous improvement initiatives across all production sites.

Quality & Compliance:

• Ensure stringent adherence to ISO 9001, AS9100, and applicable defense standards, embedding a culture of disciplined compliance throughout the manufacturing teams.

• Lead regular audits, quality reviews, and root-cause analyses, driving proactive corrective actions and preventive measures.

Team Development & Leadership:

• Recruit, mentor, and retain top-tier manufacturing talent, fostering a culture of accountability, continuous learning, and disciplined execution.

• Provide direct leadership and coaching to plant managers, engineering leads, and operational supervisors.

Financial & Resource Management:

• Manage departmental budgets, capital expenditure planning, and cost-control initiatives to maximize return on investment.

• Deliver regular operational reports and forecasts to executive leadership, clearly communicating production status, risk assessments, and strategic opportunities.

Cross-Functional Collaboration:

• Partner closely with Engineering, Supply Chain, Quality Assurance, and Program Management teams to optimize workflows and seamlessly introduce new products and technologies.

• Act as the primary manufacturing liaison to executive stakeholders and external partners, including defense clients and government agencies.

Required Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Manufacturing, Mechanical, Industrial Engineering, or related technical field (MBA or advanced technical degree preferred).

• Experience: Minimum of 12+ years in advanced manufacturing, with at least 5+ years in senior operational leadership roles managing large-scale, complex production environments.

• Proven track record driving significant operational improvements, scaling high-volume manufacturing operations, and leading successful facility startups or expansions.

• Demonstrated expertise implementing Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Continuous Improvement programs.

• Extensive experience operating under stringent quality and compliance frameworks (ISO 9001, AS9100, ITAR, DoD manufacturing standards).

Preferred Qualifications:

• Defense or aerospace manufacturing experience, including knowledge of regulatory frameworks and export controls (ITAR, EAR).

• Strong familiarity with cutting-edge manufacturing technologies, including automation, robotics, additive manufacturing, and Industry 4.0 / digital factory initiatives.

• Exceptional strategic planning and executive communication skills, capable of influencing stakeholders at the highest organizational levels.

Success Metrics:

• Achievement of annual production targets (quality, cost, delivery) within budget and timeline parameters.

• Successful implementation and measurable results from continuous improvement initiatives (e.g., reduction in manufacturing cycle times, improvements in OEE, reduction in defects).

• Strong employee engagement and retention metrics, demonstrating effective leadership and talent development.

Join us in transforming the future of manufacturing.

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