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Kela Technologies is a defense technology startup building next-generation command & control and data infrastructure systems for defense organizations. You will own product operations throughout the lifecycle, from engineering-to-production transition through production ramp-up and ongoing field support.
Key responsibilities include leading New Product Introduction (NPI) from design through rate production, managing pilot builds, first-article inspections, and resolving open issues before production lines launch. You will own the complete engineering-to-production package: production BOMs, work instructions, assembly and test flows, and build documentation for multi-configuration products.
You will validate BOM completeness, accuracy, and manufacturability, and own configuration management including ECO/MCO processes, BOM control, serial-level traceability, deviations, waivers, and controlled field updates. A major focus is establishing PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) processes and infrastructure, including system selection and rollout.
You will drive Design for Manufacturability (DFM), Design for Assembly (DFA), and Design for Production (DFP) feedback into mechanical, electrical, and harness design teams, pushing back when designs cannot be built on schedule. You will define the Approved Vendor List (AVL) and alternative components, qualify and industrialize suppliers and build-to-print subcontractors (mechanics, harnesses, cables, optics), including first-article approval and engineering-change flow-down.
Additional responsibilities include defining and validating acceptance testing (ATP) at kit and system level, managing test equipment and calibration flows, identifying and mitigating technical and supply risks early, planning and executing retrofit campaigns for fielded units, and presenting production readiness at design and production reviews (PDR, CDR, PRR).
This role works closely with R&D, Supply Chain, and Systems Engineering in a fast-moving environment where prototypes move from sketch to production in weeks, not quarters.
