Manufacturing Deployment Engineer/Line Launch Manager
18 days ago
San Antonio
Job DescriptionDescription: About Darkhive, LLC Established in 2021, Darkhive delivers the most advanced, scalable warfighting system ever built that will enable the Free World to deter aggression and, if necessary, enable allied forces to reliably and overwhelmingly prevail in combat Darkhive is a growing group of U.S. Special Operations veterans, engineers, DevSecOps, defense technology executives, and superb support staff-above all, we are mission first team. We believe that the U.S. and our allies around the world deserve high-quality, affordable tools that keep them safe when each second counts. If you are a free-thinking problem solver who is looking for a highly collaborative and innovative environment, apply with Darkhive today! We are establishing a new advanced manufacturing facility in the Greater San Antonio area. We are seeking a hands-on Manufacturing Deployment Engineer / Line Launch Manager to design, implement, and optimize efficient production lines and digital manufacturing systems. This role will also lead replication and deployment of similar manufacturing lines at customer or partner sites. The ideal candidate has direct experience setting up or managing production lines in metal fabrication, electronics, or robotics, and can translate engineering design into efficient, repeatable, documented processes. The Manufacturing Deployment Engineer/Line Launch Manager Role: Key Responsibilities Factory & Line Design · Develop and optimize factory and workcell layouts for machining, winding, and assembly operations. · Lead equipment installation, commissioning, and line balancing to meet throughput and quality targets. · Conduct time studies, takt analysis, and ergonomic evaluations to ensure safe, efficient workflow. · Use CAD software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or equivalent) to design and document layouts. Manufacturing Process & Work Instructions · Create and maintain digital work instructions using the MES and other modern manufacturing tools. · Write detailed process documentation, setup sheets, and SOPs consistent with AS9100 / ISO 9001 requirements. · Perform process FMEAs and implement corrective actions to eliminate waste and improve yield. · Collaborate with Quality to integrate inspection checkpoints, data collection, and traceability. Continuous Improvement / Lean Leadership · Drive lean manufacturing initiatives including 5S, Kaizen, and visual management across production areas. · Analyze OEE and process data to identify efficiency gains. · Implement automation and digital manufacturing solutions (MES, Power BI dashboards, barcode/andon systems). Deployment & Replication · Serve as technical lead and project manager for new line deployments at customer or partner sites (domestic and international). · Coordinate site readiness, vendor installations, and operator training. · Interface directly with customers to ensure line performance meets expectations. Collaboration & Launch Leadership · Work cross-functionally with design engineering, quality, and operations to develop manufacturing processes from concept through validation. · Provide DFM feedback via tools such as FiveFlute and PLM systems to improve product manufacturability. · Lead hands-on factory launch activities, including equipment setup, calibration, and first article production. · Support internal and external audits and certification activities (AS9100, ISO, CMMC). This is a full-time, non-supervisory role reporting to the Chief Operating Officer. This position is in Texas, commutable to San Antonio, with up to 30% travel to Darkhive headquarters and partner/customer sites Requirements: Qualifications you bring: U.S. Citizenship required with ability to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance (DoD eligibility). • 5+ years of experience as a Manufacturing Engineer or Process Engineer setting up production lines, OR 10+ years as a Production / Site Manager with direct experience managing or commissioning new lines., • Proven experience in metal fabrication, electronics, robotics, or aerospace manufacturing., • Proficiency with CAD and MCAD softwares (AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or equivalent) for layout and line design., • Demonstrated expertise in developing manufacturing work instructions, performing time studies, and optimizing processes., • Strong understanding of lean manufacturing principles, 5S, and process improvement methodologies., • Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to document complex processes clearly., • Experience in aerospace design and manufacturing, • Experience with Tulip MES, Microsoft Dynamics 365 ERP, and Power BI dashboards., • Familiarity with AS9100 / ISO 9001 requirements and digital traceability systems., • Experience leading multi-site deployments or facility startups., • Lean Six Sigma Green/Black Belt or PMP certification., • Ability to sit and/or stand for periods of time., • Ability to use a keyboard, mouse, and other equipment with or without accommodations., • Ability to maintain awareness during business hours., • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds., • Excellent written and verbal communication and good command of the English language., • Learns and memorizes routine tasks., • Reasonable accommodations will be provided to any person with a disability to be able to perform the essential job functions of this position., • Hiring team reviews applications, • 15-minute pre-screen with Darkhive recruiter, • 30-minute phone screen with the hiring manager, • Take home project, • Comprehensive medical plans, • 100% employer paid dental and vision insurance premiums, • Automatic 401k employer contribution with vesting, • Vacation and personal time off, • 11 Paid holidays, • 5 days of sick leave, • Stock options, • Welcoming and friendly work environment, • Respect of work-life balance Darkhive is an equal-opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment against any employee or applicant because of race, color, gender (including pregnancy), age, gender identity, creed, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, marital status, genetic information, disability, political affiliation, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.