Director, Starlink Production (Assembly)

About the role

We are seeking a highly motivated and achievement-oriented leader to own Starlink Product Assembly Production in Bastrop, TX-scaling high-volume manufacturing to fuel global connectivity for millions. This includes oversight and responsibility for Assembly, Test, Manufacturing Engineering, Automation, and Maintenance across high-rate automated mechanical/pick & place, SMT/PCBA, and large electromechanical build production lines.

This position plays a critical role in achieving rapid user expansion required for the success of the organization. Ideal candidates have a successful track record of scaling complex operations, leading 200+ person teams, and building cross-functional partnerships.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the strategic & tactical execution of Starlink Product Production
• Lead 250+ staff (multiple direct reports) across engineering and operations.
• Lead and mentor high-performing teams of manufacturing, process, and automation engineers to operationalize and continuously improve production.
• Implement a development program to enhance the capability of all team members while improving quality and reducing lead time & cost.
• Partner with Responsible Engineering teams to embed manufacturability into the design of new products and production lines.
• Ensure a strong focus is placed on safety and maintain an excellent safety record.
• Champion continuous improvement projects using appropriate metrics & data.
• Use quality metrics to continually improve the quality output of the operation.
• Manage resource levels to ensure optimum performance of the team.
• Monitor and communicate area status/readiness and risks to leadership.
• Monitor and maintain compliance with internal quality and customer contractual requirements.
• Foster a spirit of cooperation and collaboration within and between departments.
• Meet tight production schedules to achieve high-rate production, while adapting to changing priorities in a fast-moving environment.
• Think creatively and drive innovation; question the status quo, while following documentation and maintaining prescribed quality standards.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a STEM or engineering discipline OR 7+ years of production/manufacturing experience.
• 5+ years of experience in production/manufacturing/operations.
• 5+ years of experience in people leadership.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Experience managing large teams comprised of engineering and operations.
• Thorough knowledge of electronics manufacturing and test techniques.
• Experience monitoring cost and quality (ISO 9000, AS9100) standards.
• Experience developing and delivering continuous improvement projects within a production environment.
• Experience in fast-paced iterative design environments within the consumer electronics, mobile handset, medical devices, or automotive industries.
• Able to communicate complex concepts, problems, and solutions clearly and effectively to all levels within the organization.
• Demonstrated ability to act and execute in a scrappy, entrepreneurial manner against tight timelines and aggressive schedules.
• Strong desire to mentor and grow employees and manage out poor performers.

Additional Requirements

• Willing to work extended hours and/or weekends as needed.
• Willing to travel as needed, up to 25%.

Itar Requirements

• To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.