Assistant manager

Who we are: We are a start-up based out of Bengaluru & Delhi NCR. We are engaged in development of next generation missions and technologies (NGM& T) towards future warfare needs of the Indian defence forces. It is undertaking research towards enhancing persistence and autonomy for unmanned vehicles and robotic swarms. NRT’s product development portfolio includes a solar power stratospheric high altitude pseudo satellite (HAPS) unmanned platform and an air/ground launched stand-off autonomous system. Manufacturing Asst. Manager II – Composites (Carbon Fiber Parts Manufacturing & Assembly) Department: Manufacturing / Production Reports to: Head of Operations Job Summary: • We are looking for a hands-on and experienced Manufacturing Manager to lead composites production and assembly operations. • The candidate should have a strong technical background in composite manufacturing, especially with carbon fibre and other aerospace materials. • He/she will be responsible for managing a team of about 60 technicians, operators, supervisors and engineers, ensuring smooth production, quality output, timely delivery, and safety compliance on the shop floor. • The candidate should also have good knowledge of using wooden moulds, patterns, jigs and fixtures, and should be comfortable coordinating with the machine shop for tooling and machining support. Roles and Responsibilities: • Manage daily production activities of composite and carbon fibre parts, covering layup, curing, trimming, bonding, and assembly processes. • Ensure production targets are achieved as per plan and delivery schedules. • Implement and maintain standardized manufacturing processes, SOPs, and work instructions. • Have good knowledge of prepreg layup, vacuum bagging, autoclave curing, trimming, bonding, and assembly of composite components. • Ensure proper use and maintenance of wooden moulds, patterns, jigs, and fixtures to achieve consistent part quality. • Coordinate with the machine shop for fabrication and maintenance of tools, fixtures, and machining of composite or metallic parts as required. ( internal and vendors)• Maintain and ensure quality standards as per ISO , AS9100 D. • Lead and support First Article Inspection (FAI), Production Parts approval Process (PPAP) and customer audits. • Assign daily work to the team, resolve shop floor issues promptly, and maintain discipline and motivation among team members. • Coordinate with Quality, Planning, Engineering, Purchase, and Assembly teams for smooth workflow and resource availability. • Ensure strict adherence to safety protocols and promote a safe work environment. • Take ownership of training, development, and skill enhancement of the team. • Identify opportunities for cost saving, productivity improvement, and reduction of cycle times. • Lead Root Cause Analysis (RCA) for manufacturing problems and implement effective corrective and preventive actions (CAPA). • Support New Product Development (NPD) activities by ensuring tools, processes, and manpower are ready. • Monitor and analyse key performance indicators (KPIs) like First Pass Yield Rate , rework percentage, downtime, and man-hour efficiency. • Promote and apply Lean Manufacturing principles, 5 S, and other continuous improvement initiatives regularly. Requirements: • BE, Mechanical , Aerospace , Production Engineering, etc... • 12-15 years of experience in composite manufacturing, preferably in aerospace or similar high-precision industries. • Strong technical knowledge of carbon fibre materials, epoxy resin systems, and related composite manufacturing processes. • Hands-on experience with wooden moulds, patterns, jigs, and fixtures used in composite production. • Good understanding of machine shop operations including tool fabrication, CNC, and conventional machining. • Good knowledge of GD& T, process documentation, Bills of Materials (BOMs), and quality management systems. • Proven experience managing small -mid size teams and driving performance through effective leadership. • Practical approach with excellent communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills. • Experience working with ERP systems (Oracle Net Suite knowledge is an advantage). • Willingness to be present on the shop floor regularly and take full ownership of the manufacturing area.