Production Lead – Startup Manufacturing Operations (Full-time)
About AIM Defence
AIM Defence buildshigh‐powerlaser 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 andoutcomes-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,requiredto move from prototype to repeatable production.
The Role
We are seeking a ProductionLeadtoestablishand run manufacturing operations at AIM Defence.
This is a hands‐on role responsible for transitioning products from engineering buildsthrough 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, anddrives 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 andmaintainingquality 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 communicationand leadership skills
Ability to work independently in a rapid‐moving environment
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 ****
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
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📌 Production Lead (Victoria)
🏢 AIM Defence
📍 Victoria