Job Title

Production Manager / Lead Assembly Technician Drones & Batteries Ottawa (Kanata), Ontario | On-site AirMetal Advanced Defence Drone Manufacturing About AirMetal AirMetal is a Canadian advanced manufacturing company building secure, domestic production capability for military-grade drones and battery systems in support of the Canadian Armed Forces and allied programs. Based in Ottawa, we are scaling from early production through sustained manufacturing across multiple drone platforms. The Opportunity AirMetal is seeking a Production Manager / Lead Assembly Technician to serve as a hands-on player-coach for our drone and Li-ion battery pack assembly operations. This role blends production leadership with direct assembly and test work, especially during early builds, ramp-ups, and surge periods. This position is ideal for someone who enjoys building product, leading from the floor, and turning prototypes into reliable production. What You''ll Do Lead daily production for: FPV and ISR drone assembly and test Li-ion battery pack assembly (pack assembly only) Personally assemble drones and battery packs as needed, including: Frame, propulsion, avionics, wiring, and final integration Functional testing, troubleshooting, and rework Execute production ramp-ups from pilot builds to steady-state volume Develop, improve, and enforce work instructions and build standards Train, mentor, and supervise assembly and test technicians Plan daily and weekly production schedules and staffing Coordinate closely with Engineering on design changes and build readiness Partner with Procurement to ensure material availability and kitting Drive quality, yield, and throughput improvements using Lean principles Ensure compliance with ISO 9001, Controlled Goods, and CAF requirements Enforce ESD, battery safety, and shop-floor safety procedures What We''re Looking For 7+ years in manufacturing, assembly, or production roles 3+ years in a lead technician, production lead, or manufacturing supervisor role Strong hands-on experience assembling: Electronics or electromechanical systems Small vehicles, robotics, drones, or similar products Comfortable switching between: Bench-level assembly and troubleshooting Production planning and team leadership Experience working in ISO-controlled or regulated environments Eligible for Canada''s Controlled Goods Program (Secret clearance eligibility considered an asset) Nice to Have Direct drone or UAV assembly experience Li-ion battery pack assembly experience Lean / Six Sigma training ERP/MRP system exposure (NetSuite, Dynamics, SAP, etc.) Defence, aerospace, automotive, or medical manufacturing background Why Join AirMetal Build real hardware that mattersCanadian defence capability High-impact role with ownership from bench to production line Work on cutting-edge drone and energy systems Collaborative, execution-focused environment Opportunity to grow into a senior manufacturing leadership role Compensation CAD $60,000 $75,000 base (commensurate with experience) Performance-based bonus Benefits package Long-term incentive opportunities may be available Job Type: Full-time Pay: $60,000.00-$75,000.00 per year Benefits: Dental care RRSP match Work Location: In person