Space Production Plant Manager

Company Overview

SPACE INDUSTRIES is a dynamic and rapidly growing company operating in the aerospace sector, committed to innovation, reliability, and mission excellence.
The company supports complex space programs and provides end-to-end capabilities — from design and manufacturing to integration, testing, and mission operations — ensuring high performance and success across all programs.

Position Overview

The Space Production Plant Manager is responsible for leading, coordinating, and optimizing all production and industrial operations within the company’s manufacturing site.
This includes overseeing assembly, integration, and test (AIT) activities of satellite systems, ensuring operational excellence, compliance with aerospace standards (e.g. ECSS), and the achievement of cost, quality, and delivery targets.

The ideal candidate is a seasoned professional with proven experience in managing high-technology production environments, preferably within aerospace, defense, or advanced manufacturing sectors.

Main Responsibilities

• Leadership and Coordination:
  Lead all plant operations, including production, logistics, maintenance, and support services, ensuring alignment with company goals and program requirements.
• Operational Performance:
  Define and monitor KPIs for productivity, efficiency, quality, and delivery. Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance performance.
• AIT Oversight:
  Supervise the assembly, integration, and testing of satellite systems, ensuring compliance with technical specifications, ECSS standards, and safety regulations.
• Resource and Team Management:
  Manage multidisciplinary teams (engineering, technicians, logistics), promoting a culture of accountability, quality, and collaboration.
• Budget and Planning:
  Develop and control operational budgets, monitor resource utilization, and ensure cost-effectiveness across departments.
• Process Optimization:
  Identify and implement process improvements to optimize manufacturing flow, reduce lead times, and increase throughput.
• Compliance and Safety:
  Guarantee adherence to company procedures, safety policies, and aerospace quality standards (ECSS, ISO 9001).
• Stakeholder Collaboration:
  Collaborate closely with Engineering, Quality, Procurement, and Program Management to ensure effective coordination and timely delivery of mission-critical hardware.
• Audits and Reviews:
  Participate in internal and external audits, providing evidence of compliance and contributing to continuous improvement initiatives.

• Degree in Engineering (Industrial, Mechanical, Aerospace, or related field).
• Minimum 8–10 years of experience in production or plant management, preferably in aerospace, defense, or high-tech manufacturing.
• Proven experience in leading multidisciplinary teams and managing complex production environments.
• Strong knowledge of lean manufacturing, production planning, and quality systems.
• Familiarity with ECSS standards, cleanroom operations, and flight hardware handling.
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Fluent in English (written and spoken).
• Driving license: category B.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in small satellite programs or similar aerospace production contexts.
• Familiarity with ESA/ASI processes and documentation.
• Certifications in Project Management, Lean Manufacturing, or Quality Systems (Six Sigma, ISO, etc.).
• Strong interpersonal and leadership skills in multicultural environments.

What We Offer

• 40-hour work week, Monday to Friday.
• A dynamic and innovative work environment in the aerospace industry.
• Opportunities for professional growth and leadership development.
• Metalmeccanico (CCNL) with compensation based on experience and expertise.

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a company shaping the future of satellite manufacturing and integration.
• Work in a collaborative and high-technology environment with global impact.
• Contribute to the success of pioneering aerospace programs within a rapidly expanding organization.