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Director of Production - IDCA

Anduril - Hudson, NH, United States - In-office - posted 2026-08-10

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Anduril Industries, a defense technology company, seeks a Director of Production to lead and scale manufacturing operations at Advanced Infrared Solutions (AIRS), a recently acquired subsidiary in Hudson, NH. AIRS designs and manufactures high-performance cooled infrared cameras and subsystems, including Integrated Dewar Cooler Assemblies (IDCAs), serving both internal Anduril imaging products and external defense, space, and commercial customers. In this role, you will own all production outcomes including ramp plans, new product introductions, headcount planning, and on-time delivery targets. You'll serve as both strategic leader and hands-on executor, driving production from low-rate initial production through full-rate production. You will lead and develop a cross-functional manufacturing team spanning production, manufacturing engineering, and quality, establishing clear career paths and a high-performance culture. Key responsibilities include: driving the full lifecycle of IDCA and infrared module manufacturing process design, documentation, and continuous improvement to ensure high yield, quality, and efficiency; strategizing and executing capacity expansion initiatives including equipment specification, sourcing, installation, and qualification; championing automation, data collection, and process control systems to enhance quality and reduce cycle time; developing comprehensive preventive maintenance and equipment spares programs for high-vacuum systems; holding cross-functional teams accountable to meeting demands and deadlines; establishing and managing financial, quality, and on-time delivery KPIs; supporting implementation of digital technologies (PLM, ERP, MES, QMS); and maintaining accountability to AS9100D guidelines. Required qualifications: degree in a technical field (mechanical/electrical engineering, systems engineering, math, or hard science); 8+ years progressive experience in manufacturing/production operations in aerospace, defense, consumer electronics, medical, or automotive; 3+ years in a production leadership role managing cross-functional teams; professional experience with high-vacuum systems and cooled thermal imaging (Dewars, coolers, IDCAs); proven track record of yield and process improvement (Six Sigma Black Belt preferred); demonstrated experience owning new product ramps through full-rate production; experience managing production budgets; ability to work cross-functionally in fast-paced environments; strong technical engagement with engineering teams; relentless drive for continuous improvement; and eligibility to obtain and maintain a U.S. Secret security clearance.

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