Plant Project Manager / Site Director

Safran DSI Business Unit: Space Solutions

ABOUT OUR MISSION:

Join the forefront of innovation and make an impact at Safran Defense & Space, Inc.!

Safran Defense & Space Inc. (Safran DSI), headquartered in Arlington, Va., is a leading U.S. aerospace company dedicated to supporting national defense and space missions. As a trusted partner to the U.S. armed forces, government agencies, and commercial sectors, Safran DSI delivers advanced technology solutions through its specialized business units: Assured PNT, Geospatial AI, Optronics, Space Solutions, and Testing & Telemetry. 

Safran DSI Space Solutions specializes in comprehensive satellite ground stations and modems, on-board radio communications for small satellite platforms, space optics, space propulsion systems, as well as solutions for space domain awareness (SDA) and surveillance, reconnaissance and tracking (SRT).

If you’re ready to join our mission and serve those who serve, Safran DSI is the perfect place for you to take your career to the next level. Make a real difference and be part of something extraordinary. Apply now and help us build the future of defense and space. 

POSITION PROFILE:

As Plant Project Manager, the successful candidate will be responsible for managing the manufacturing facility construction project and setting up the manufacturing operations. This role requires strong technical and engineering foundation, deep technical expertise and precision manufacturing experience. As Site Director, once the plant is operational, the successful candidate will be responsible for the site operations.  This role requires the ability to operate within a highly regulated, quality-focused environment. The Site Director will also be responsible for driving operational excellence, ensuring compliance with standards, and leading cross-functional teams across Safran to deliver high-quality products safely, on time, and within budget.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Coordinate facility engineering and construction in preparation for operational readiness
• Project Management of the construction phase, being accountable for the overall project execution
• Lead day-to-day operations of the plant, including production, quality, maintenance, supply chain, and safety
• Leverage technical engineering knowledge to establish and improve manufacturing processes, equipment set up and throughput
• Ensure strict adherence to quality and regulatory standards as well as industry and customer certifications
• Implement and sustain continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, and other performance improvement tools
• Collaborate with facilities, engineering and program management teams across Safran to ensure new product introductions are smoothly transitioned into production
• Champion a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous learning across all levels of the plant
• Drive productivity, cost reduction, and waste elimination efforts while maintaining quality and delivery targets
• Manage budgets, KPIs, and strategic planning for the facility in alignment with overall company goals
• Oversee capital projects and technical upgrades, ensuring alignment with long-term plant capability needs
• Assist in leading a high-performing team of production personnel.
• Manage vendors and contractors
• Other duties as assigned

WHAT YOU’LL NEED TO BE SUCCESSFUL:

• Minimum of five (5) years’ experience in construction project management
• Minimum 8 years of experience in aerospace manufacturing, including 3+ years in a plant leadership role
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Aerospace, Manufacturing, or related field) or Facilities Management
• Demonstrated success leading cross-functional teams in a complex, high-mix/low-volume production environment
• Deep knowledge of aerospace materials, machining, assembly, and special processes
• Proven track record of implementing Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement strategies
• Excellent leadership, communication, and change management skills
• Proficiency with ERP systems and data-driven decision making
• U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Resident Status Required

IDEALLY, YOU’LL ALSO HAVE:

• Experience with performance metrics
• Ability to obtain a DoD Secret Security Clearance as required depending on product and program involvement
• Experience working in an ITAR environment
• Conversational French

TRAVEL: Up to 10% - Occasional international travel and United States domestic travel will vary

Salary Range: $130,000-$170,000 annual salary, plus participation in performance bonus plan.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the role.

EOE/AA/M/F/Vets – US Protected Individual status required (US citizen, lawful permanent resident, asylee, refugee or temporary resident (as defined at 8 USC 1160(a).