Production Manager

Build the future, faster.

At Layup Parts, our mission is simple: deliver composite parts faster than anyone else. We’re not just another composites shop—we’re a technology-first manufacturing startup that’s revolutionizing how composite tooling and parts are made for the aerospace, defense, and motorsports industries. Our customers are developing tomorrow's high-tech products, and we are building technology to accelerate their success.

We design, machine, laminate, and build at industry-leading speeds. Now we’re looking for a manufacturing leader who thrives in high-performance environments and wants to help us redefine what’s possible in advanced manufacturing.

Why You’ll Love This Role

You won’t be stuck behind a desk. You’ll lead from the front on the shop floor, working side by side with your team. You’ll optimize workflows, mentor talent, and introduce new technologies to make production faster, better, and more scalable.

If you’re passionate about precision, process improvement, and team development, and want to be part of an ambitious company that is moving fast, this is your opportunity.

What You’ll Do:

• Lead the Team: Manage hourly technicians across Print, Machine, Lamination, Trim/Finishing, and Curing. Build a culture of collaboration, quality, and urgency.
• Develop Talent: Create and maintain training programs to grow early-career technicians and upskill existing team members.
• Optimize Production: Own workflow management, scheduling, capacity planning, and resolving bottlenecks to keep client orders on track.
• Streamline Processes: Push for smart, standardized work instructions and smooth handoffs between Sales, Engineering, and Production.
• Champion Digital Tools: Train your team on using our proprietary systems to improve accuracy and drive continuous improvement.
• Collaborate Across Teams: Work closely with the Manufacturing Engineering team to ensure materials, documentation, and programming are always ready to meet production schedules.
• Drive Continuous Improvement: Provide DFM feedback to Engineering to reduce costs and improve manufacturability. Implement and enforce production best practices.
• Be Hands-On: Split your time between the floor and the office. You will be solving problems, mentoring, and planning with the team.
• Plan for Growth: Budget, plan, and commission new equipment. Develop and deliver training for new processes and tools.
• Expand Capabilities: Lead the development of new manufacturing methods as we grow.
• Support EHS: Help develop and maintain Environmental, Health, and Safety programs, including waste disposal initiatives.
  
  
  

Required:

• Be awesome! Be the kind of person you want to work with!
• Be a strong leader, able to foster a “all for one” mentality where people give and accept help to deliver quality parts on time.
• Have a proven track record of exceptional ability to build and develop a team.
• Have a high sense of urgency, and a resolve to deliver the highest quality.
• Drive projects without much guidance or input, butbe able to provide guidance to your team.
• Have experience in startups or small teams in fast-paced and quickly changing environments
• Have 6+ years experience in the manufacturing of composites parts from prepreg materials, with strong knowledge of relevant materials and methods.
• Be well versed in how to design successful manufacturing methods for such parts (including how to split tooling, use of intensifiers/caul plates, adhesive films, core splice, hard points, ply drops, debulk strategy, etc)
• Have experience in other composites manufacturing methods like vacuum infusion (VARTM), compression molding/hot pressed molding, trapped rubber molding, and wet-layup.
• Have 3+ years experience managing direct reports.
• Be proficient on a computer and experienced using typical administrative software for communication, planning, and coordination. (e.g. word, excel, outlook).
  
  
  

Preferred:

• Have experience using 3D printed tooling.
• Have experience using some forms of enterprise software(s) (NetSuite, Jira, Confluence, Smartsheet's, etc.).
• Have experience managing disciplines outside of composites such as machining, manufacturing engineers, etc.
  
  
  

We’re not just building parts—we’re building momentum. You’ll be part of a small, fast, and tight-knit team tackling real engineering challenges every day. If you’re ready to work hard, move fast, and push boundaries, you’ll fit right in.

Equal Opportunity

Layup is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance.

ITAR Requirements

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C.

• 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C
• 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here
  
  
  

Final compensation is based on your experience, skills, and what you bring to the table.

Equity Option Grants: Most full-time team members receive stock options—because we believe in shared success.

Full Benefits Package: Medical, dental, and vision coverage, short- and long-term disability insurance, company-paid life insurance

Time Off That Respects Your Time: Competitive PTO plan with paid vacation, holidays, and leave options.