Plant Manager

About Overland AI:  

Founded in 2022 and headquartered in Seattle, Washington, Overland AI is transforming land operations for modern defense. The company leverages over a decade of advanced research in robotics and machine learning, as well as a field-test forward ethos, to deliver combined capabilities for unit commanders. Our OverDrive autonomy stack enables ground vehicles to navigate and operate off-road in any terrain without GPS or direct operator control. Our intuitive OverWatch C2 interface provides commanders with precise coordination capabilities essential for mission success.  

Overland AI has secured funding from prominent defense tech investors, including 8VC and Point 72, and built trusted partnerships with DARPA, the U.S. Army, Marine Corps, and Special Operations Command. Backed by eight-figure contracts across the Department of Defense, we are strengthening national security by iterating closely with end users engaged in tactical operations.

Role Summary: 

We are seeking a dynamic, experienced, and results-driven Plant Manager to oversee the daily operations of our state-of-the-art unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) manufacturing facility. This role is critical to ensuring the production of high-quality, reliable autonomous vehicles while maintaining a focus on efficiency, safety, and continuous improvement. The Plant Manager will oversee all plant operations, drive operational excellence, and ensure the facility operates at the highest levels of productivity, safety, and quality. Reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer (COO), this position requires a strong leader who can foster a collaborative work environment, streamline processes, and solve complex challenges in a fast-paced, high-tech manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities: 

1. Operational Leadership:
   • Lead and manage all aspects of day-to-day plant operations to meet production goals, quality standards, and safety regulations.
   • Develop and implement production plans, including scheduling, resource allocation, and workflow optimization to ensure efficient manufacturing of UGVs.
   • Monitor plant performance metrics (KPIs), identifying areas for improvement and implement corrective actions as needed.
   • Establish and maintain production targets, focusing on maximizing productivity while minimizing downtime and waste.
2. Staff Management and Development:
   • Directly supervise a team of supervisors, engineers, and production staff, ensuring they are well-trained, motivated, and capable of meeting operational objectives.
   • Foster a positive and productive work environment, leading by example and promoting a culture of accountability, teamwork, and respect.
   • Conduct regular performance evaluations, provide coaching, and identify opportunities for employee development and career growth.
   • Ensure proper staffing levels and work schedules to support production targets, while maintaining a strong focus on employee retention and engagement.
3. Safety and Compliance:
   • Champion a culture of safety and ensure the facility adheres to all safety regulations, OSHA standards, and internal safety protocols.
   • Proactively identify and address potential safety hazards, conducting regular safety audits and training to prevent accidents and injuries.
   • Ensure compliance with all environmental and regulatory requirements, working with the COO to address any necessary changes or improvements in these areas.
4. Quality Assurance:
   • Oversee the implementation and enforcement of quality control standards, ensuring that all products meet the company’s stringent quality and performance expectations.
   • Work closely with the quality team to address any product defects or production issues that may arise, ensuring corrective actions are taken in a timely and effective manner.
   • Drive continuous improvement in production processes to maintain the highest standards of product quality and customer satisfaction.
5. Budget and Resource Management:
   • Manage the plant’s budget, ensuring cost-effective operations and alignment with financial targets.
   • Collaborate with the COO to forecast resource needs, manage inventory, and control costs related to labor, materials, and equipment.
   • Work closely with the engineering team to ensure equipment is properly maintained, and downtime is minimized.
6. Continuous Improvement and Innovation:
   • Drive continuous improvement initiatives by utilizing lean manufacturing principles, Six Sigma, or other methodologies to enhance plant efficiency and reduce operational waste.
   • Stay up-to-date with the latest manufacturing technologies, industry trends, and best practices to identify opportunities for innovation and process optimization.
   • Lead projects focused on upgrading plant capabilities, introducing new technologies, and scaling production as the company grows.
7. Cross-Functional Collaboration:
   • Collaborate with the product development, engineering, and supply chain teams to ensure production requirements are met and any challenges are resolved effectively.
   • Partner with the HR team to maintain a skilled, diverse workforce, manage labor relations, and address any personnel issues that may arise.
   • Communicate effectively with senior leadership, providing regular updates on plant performance, challenges, and opportunities.

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing, Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field. A Master’s degree is a plus.
• A minimum of 7-10 years of progressive experience in manufacturing, with at least 3 years in a leadership or management role, preferably within an advanced manufacturing or automotive environment.
• Experience in aerospace, autonomous vehicle manufacturing, robotics, or off-road vehicle production is highly preferred.
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, production planning, lean methodologies, and quality assurance practices.

Skills & Competencies:

• Proven ability to lead and motivate a diverse team of employees, including supervisors, engineers, and production staff.
• Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to analyze complex situations and implement effective solutions.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate across functions and engage with senior leadership.
• In-depth understanding of safety standards, regulatory compliance, and environmental protocols in a manufacturing environment.
• Highly organized, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.
• Strong analytical skills and proficiency with data analysis tools, ERP systems, and production management software.

Personal Attributes:

• Strong leadership presence and ability to build trust with team members and senior leadership.
• A results-driven mindset, with a focus on achieving operational goals and delivering high-quality outcomes.
• A commitment to continuous improvement and fostering a culture of innovation and accountability.
• Adaptable and flexible, with the ability to thrive in a rapidly changing environment.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Security Clearance.

Physical Demands & Work Environment:

• This role requires regular on-site presence in the manufacturing facility, which may include exposure to noise, machinery, and heavy equipment.
• The Plant Manager will be expected to spend a significant amount of time on the factory floor and in the office, overseeing operations and interacting with team members.
• Occasional travel may be required for supplier meetings, industry events, or corporate initiatives.

Location: Rainier Beach, Seattle

Benefits: 

Overland AI believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day.  

• The salary range for this position is $120K to $180K annually 
• Equity compensation 
• Best-in-class healthcare, dental, and vision plans  
• Unlimited PTO 
• 401k with company match 
• Parental leave