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 productionLead day‐to‐day production operations and coordinate manufacturing activitiesSchedule and track production tasks to meet delivery timelinesMaintain production records, BOMs, work instructions, and operational documentation
Process & Systems
Develop and implement scalable production workflows and processesEstablish simple, robust systems that improve speed and repeatabilityDrive continuous improvement across production activities




Procurement & Materials
Manage procurement of components, materials, and manufacturing suppliesCoordinate supplier relationships, sourcing, and lead time managementOversee inventory systems, stock levels, and material tracking
Quality & Reliability
Ensure product quality through inspections, process controls, and feedback loopsContribute to building andmaintainingquality systems aligned with production needs
Team & Growth
Help recruit, train, and lead production personnel as the company scalesWork 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 fieldExperience in manufacturing, production, operations, or hardware development environmentsPractical understanding of manufacturing and assembly processesExperience with procurement, inventory management, and production schedulingStrong communicationand leadership skillsAbility to work independently in a fast‐moving environmentWillingness to be hands‐on with hardware and production systems
Highly Desired
Experience in a startup or early‐stage hardware companyExperience setting up manufacturing or operational systems from scratchFamiliarity with QMS frameworks, ideally ISO ****Experience with ERP/MRP or inventory systemsUnderstanding of design for manufacture (DFM) principlesExperience leading small production or operations teams
Why This Role
Foundational role shaping how production is built and scaledHigh ownership and direct impact on company outcomesClose collaboration with engineering and leadershipWork on systems that are designed, built, and deployed in real environments
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📌 Production Lead (Victoria)
🏢 AIM Defence
📍 Victoria