Thales Defense & Security, Inc. is a global company serving the defense, federal, and commercial markets with innovative solutions for the ground tactical, airborne and avionics, naval/maritime, and public safety and security domains. In addition to mission-critical communication systems, the company provides helmet-mounted displays and motion tracking technologies; SATCOM terminals; advanced sonar systems; and data protection solutions. Furthermore, the company serves as a gateway for technology, leveraging Thales-wide solutions—such as combat management systems; naval, airborne, and ground ISR; and electronic warfare—to address U.S. requirements. 

We currently have an opening in our Clarksburg, MD office for an experienced Manager of SMT Manufacturing.  This position reports directly to the Director of Manufacturing. This position oversees the day-to-day operations of the Surface Mount Technology (SMT) production lines, ensuring efficient production of printed circuit boards (PCBs) by managing proper staff levels, optimizing machine performance, maintaining quality standards, and implementing process improvements, all while adhering to production schedules and cost targets.  This responsibility includes SMT, circuit card assembly, and board validation processes (AOI Flying Probe). 

Top Benefits (Subject to terms of applicable policies/plans)

• Competitive Salary
• Yearly Incentive Bonus Program
• Medical insurance for self and eligible family members
• Generous 401(k) program  - up to 7% company contribution and 100% immediate vesting
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Paid wellness, vacation, and holiday leave
• Paid maternity, paternity, and parental leave
• 9/80 Work Schedule (every other Friday off)

• Manages day-to-day SMT operations to meet both internal and external customer commitments, working with Production Control on priorities, assigning tasks, and monitoring key performance indicators (KPIs) to review area performance.  Works with Manufacturing Engineering on efficiency opportunities within the SMT area such as optimizing machine utilization and reducing machine downtime.  Supports Continuous Improvement meetings.
• Solid understanding of SMT machine programming, including placement head configuration and component feeding. 
• Works with Director of Manufacturing and HR to maintain proper staffing levels to support delivery schedules. 
• Participates in budget and financial monitoring activities (such as labor variance and Scrap) for span of control Direct and indirect budget development. Provides recommendations for strategic planning.
• Ensures products are built on schedule to our strict customer requirements and as directed by the Director of Manufacturing. 
• Achieves manufacturing objectives by managing to established schedules and by communicating and enforcing policies, operating procedures, and individual responsibilities.  
• Monitors operational efficiencies, yields, and other data reports to guide labor efforts to meet or exceed standards.  
• Communicate with all levels of the organization.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

The principle duty of this position is to provide day-to-day manufacturing supervision, leadership and support to the business, ensuring smooth and efficient operations in accordance with the TDSI’s operating policies and applicable laws. This will require the candidate to continually search for opportunities to enhance production processes and the product using a variety of problem solving techniques, effective interpersonal and communication skills, along with technical competency.  Candidate will motivate, coach and encourage employees to optimize career development and personal satisfaction, fostering a culture of safety and quality within the SMT team.  Candidate will train and develop SMT operators to maintain skill levels and ensure proper operation of equipment. Candidate will promote excellent employee relations and empowerment of all manufacturing personnel.

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• U.S. Citizenship Required.  Applicant may be selected for work that requires ability to obtain and maintain US Secret Level Security Clearance.
• BS/BA degree in Mechanical, Electrical or Manufacturing Engineering or Related Technical Field.
• Must have 7+ years SMT manufacturing experience with at least 2 years in management.
• Experience with SMT machines, hand-soldering requirements, and have a working knowledge of SMT machine programming.
• Knowledge of IPC/J-STD Workmanship Standards: Candidates must possess a working knowledge of IPC/J-STD workmanship requirements for soldering and electronics assembly.  An IPC-J-STD Certification is preffered. 
• Understand ERP System, previous SAP experience a plus.
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing Concepts such as Kanban, Kaizen, Root Cause Analysis, etc.
• Knowledge of Engineering Data such as specification control drawing & source control drawing.
• Excellent verbal and written communications – Fluent in English.
• Ability to comply with all Company guidelines, policies, procedures and embrace Company Core Values. 

The annualized pay range for this role is $127,425.00 – $162,820.00 USD, along with a target incentive compensation plan (ICP) of 10%. The pay range provided is a good faith estimate representative of the experience level for the role described above.  TDSI considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, location, education/training, and key skills.

For specific questions about this job posting, candidates may contact the recruiter at careers@thalesdsi.com.

Thales champions inclusion and we believe diversity strengthens the fabric of our culture. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer/AA/Minorities/Females/Veterans/Disabled. Thales is an E-Verify employer.

Thales is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, age or any other characteristic protected by law.

If you need an accommodation or assistance in order to apply for a position with Thales, please call Human Resources at 240-864-7630.

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