Production Lead – Startup Manufacturing Operations (Full-time)

About AIM Defence

AIM Defence builds high‑power laser systems that protect people from weaponised drones. We are an engineering-led, focused, and disciplined team working on complex systems spanning hardware, software, optics, and integration.

Our work is practical and outcomes-driven. Systems are designed, built, and deployed into real environments where reliability matters. Every team member contributes directly to delivery.

As we scale, production capability becomes critical. This role will build the structure, processes, and team, required to move from prototype to repeatable production.

The Role

We are seeking a Production Lead to establish and run manufacturing operations at AIM Defence.

This is a hands-on role responsible for transitioning products from engineering builds through to reliable, high-volume production. You will work closely with engineering, operations, and leadership to create simple, reliable systems that support delivery.

This role requires a proactive leader who takes ownership, builds scalable processes, and drives production forward efficiently without adding unnecessary layers of administration.

What You Will Do

Production & Execution

- Work closely with engineering teams to transition products from prototype to production
- Lead day-to-day production operations and coordinate manufacturing activities
- Schedule and track production tasks to meet delivery timelines
- Maintain production records, BOMs, work instructions, and operational documentation

Process & Systems

- Develop and implement scalable production workflows and processes
- Establish simple, robust systems that improve speed and repeatability
- Drive continuous improvement across production activities

Procurement & Materials





- Manage procurement of components, materials, and manufacturing supplies
- Coordinate supplier relationships, sourcing, and lead time management
- Oversee inventory systems, stock levels, and material tracking

Quality & Reliability

- Ensure product quality through inspections, process controls, and feedback loops
- Contribute to building and maintaining quality systems aligned with production needs

Team & Growth

- Help recruit, train, and lead production personnel as the company scales
- Work across engineering, operations, and leadership to remove blockers and support delivery

What We Are Looking For

- Degree or relevant experience in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Operations, or a related field
- Experience in manufacturing, production, operations, or hardware development environments
- Practical understanding of manufacturing and assembly processes
- Experience with procurement, inventory management, and production scheduling
- Strong communication and leadership skills
- Ability to work independently in a fast-moving workplace
- Willingness to be hands-on with hardware and production systems

Highly Desired

- Experience in a startup or early-stage hardware company
- Experience setting up manufacturing or operational systems from scratch
- Familiarity with QMS frameworks, ideally ISO 9001
- Experience with ERP/MRP or inventory systems
- Understanding of design for manufacture (DFM) principles
- Experience leading small production or operations teams

Why This Role

- Foundational role shaping how production is built and scaled
- High ownership and direct impact on company outcomes
- Close collaboration with engineering and leadership
- Work on systems that are designed, built, and deployed in real environments

📌 Production Lead (Port Melbourne)
🏢 AIM HQ Pty
📍 Port Melbourne