Manager, Production (Falcon 9)

As the Manager, Production (Falcon 9) at SpaceX, your responsibilities include overseeing a team of supervisors and technicians, managing production goals related to quality and cost, enhancing safety performance, and ensuring continuous process improvement. You will also work collaboratively with engineering teams to incorporate design for manufacturability while fostering an environment of growth and adaptation among your staff.

To qualify for the Manager, Production (Falcon 9) role at SpaceX, candidates should possess a Bachelor's degree or have 4+ years of experience in a relevant manufacturing environment, coupled with at least 2 years in a leadership position. A solid understanding of manufacturing processes and a track record in managing teams effectively are also essential.

The Manager, Production (Falcon 9) will ensure safety at SpaceX by prioritizing a strong safety culture within the team, achieving excellent safety performance metrics, and consistently reviewing safety protocols. You'll be responsible for driving initiatives that improve safety records and promoting safe practices among all employees.

At SpaceX, the Manager, Production (Falcon 9) fosters a proactive and innovative environment that encourages continuous improvement. This involves motivating team members, supporting their professional developments through training, and promoting a culture where questioning the status quo is not just welcomed but encouraged.

The compensation for the Manager, Production (Falcon 9) at SpaceX ranges from $130,000 to $180,000 per year. The overall compensation package may include bonuses, stock options, and comprehensive benefits such as medical, dental, and a 401(k) plan, making it competitive in the aerospace industry.

In answering this question, highlight your leadership roles in previous production environments, focusing on how you managed teams, drove performance improvements, and handled challenges. Use specific metrics or achievements to showcase your impact.

Discuss the specific strategies you've implemented in past experiences to promote safety in the workplace. Mention any safety training programs you've developed or experience in handling safety incidents effectively.

Provide an example that outlines the problem, your approach to finding and implementing a solution, and the measurable results that followed, focusing on efficiency, cost reduction, or quality enhancement.

Discuss tracking metrics, conducting regular performance reviews, and gathering feedback from team members. Highlight how these evaluations have led to actionable performance enhancements in your previous roles.

Illustrate your conflict resolution strategies, focusing on communication skills, empathy, and finding common ground. Share a specific instance demonstrating effective conflict resolution.

Emphasize your experience utilizing quality metrics to monitor production, conducting regular audits, and implementing corrective actions when necessary to uphold high-quality standards.

Share examples of motivational techniques you've employed, such as recognition programs, providing opportunities for professional development, or setting clear, attainable goals that engage team members.

Summarize your familiarity with lean manufacturing methodologies, including specific tools or techniques you’ve implemented, and discuss how they've contributed to operational improvements.

Highlight your approach to cross-functional collaboration, such as regular meetings, joint problem-solving initiatives, and how your leadership can bridge the gap between production and engineering.

Discuss your insights regarding the fast-paced aerospace environment, emphasizing the importance of adaptability. Share how your experience prepares you to navigate challenges effectively while driving your team's success.