Site Manager

Description

AGSE México is seeking a results-oriented, experienced Site Manager to lead its manufacturing operations in Querétaro, delivering world-class Ground Support Equipment (GSE) and precision metal fabrication for the aerospace industry. Leveraging the proven capabilities of AGSE’s Santa Fe Springs (SFS) facility, this site will include advanced manufacturing, welding, CNC machining, assembly, and finishing operations serving domestic and international customers. The ideal candidate will have at least 10 years of progressive leadership experience in manufacturing, with extensive knowledge of aerospace tooling, GSE production, and lean operations. The Site Manager will oversee all aspects of site operations—including Human Resources, Production, Quality, Supply Chain, and Site Administration—driving a culture of operational excellence, continuous improvement, and safety. Key Responsibilities and Duties * Provide hands-on leadership for daily operations at the AGSE Querétaro plant, ensuring timely and high-quality production of aerospace ground support equipment, metal-fabricated tooling, and related assemblies. * Supervise all key site functions—including Fabrication, Welding, CNC Machining, Assembly, Finishing, Quality, Supply Chain, and Human Resources—ensuring compliance with aerospace industry standards and customer specifications. * Lead the startup and ongoing development of a greenfield facility, establishing processes, workflows, and organizational structure aligned with the AGSE SFS operating model. * Drive a culture of continuous improvement in safety, quality, on-time delivery, and cost through lean manufacturing practices, 5S, and structured problem-solving methodologies. * Develop, monitor, and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs), including manufacturing efficiency, weld quality, CNC utilization, on-time deliveries, and customer satisfaction. * Implement and maintain robust quality assurance processes; conduct periodic audits and inspections to ensure compliance with AS9100, ISO 9001, customer requirements, and applicable Mexican regulations (NOM, IMSS). * Manage and optimize production floor assets—including welding systems, CNC machines, press brakes, tooling, fixtures, and inspection equipment—used in aerospace and GSE manufacturing. * Support new product introductions and design changes by collaborating closely with Engineering and Program Management to ensure manufacturability, quality, and schedule adherence. * Collaborate with senior leadership in the United States and cross-functional teams to deliver clear reports on production status, plant performance, risks, and improvement initiatives. * Recruit, develop, and retain a qualified local workforce; create training programs and competency frameworks aligned with aerospace and manufacturing standards. * Maintain a safe work environment compliant with Mexico’s Federal Labor Law (LFT), STPS regulations, and international EHS standards. Enforce proper use of PPE, conduct risk assessments, and implement preventive safety measures. * Lead incident investigations, report near-misses, and ensure closure of corrective actions. Promote a safety culture across all organizational levels. * Develop and manage relationships with local suppliers, subcontractors, and government entities within Querétaro’s aerospace corridor to support site operations and growth. * Perform any other duties as assigned by management. Minimum Requirements and Qualifications * Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related technical field. * Minimum 10 years of progressive operations leadership experience, preferably in GSE, aerospace tooling, heavy metal fabrication, or Tier 1/Tier 2 aerospace manufacturing. * In-depth knowledge of manufacturing processes including MIG/TIG welding, structural steel and aluminum fabrication, CNC machining, mechanical assembly, and surface finishing. * Familiarity with aerospace, military, or commercial ground support standards and specifications (e.g., ATA, FAA, AS9100, NADCAP where applicable). * Experience implementing and managing ISO 9001 or AS9100 quality management systems in aerospace or manufacturing environments. * Proven experience leading greenfield or startup manufacturing operations—including facility layout, equipment qualification, and personnel development. * Solid understanding of Mexico’s Federal Labor Law (LFT), STPS/EHS regulations, IMSS compliance, and manufacturing regulations applicable to the aerospace sector in Querétaro or similar industrial zones. * Demonstrated ability to lead, develop, and train multidisciplinary teams in a dynamic, multicultural environment. * Proficiency in interpreting engineering drawings, GD&T, welding symbols, and manufacturing tolerances. * Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills, with a focus on continuous improvement. * Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, senior U.S.-based leadership, and local government or regulatory agencies. * Fluency in Spanish (spoken and written) required; professional-level English required for communication with U.S. offices. * Willingness and ability to travel domestically and internationally as needed. Physical Requirements and Working Conditions While performing the duties of this position, the employee is regularly required to sit, walk, and stand; speak and hear both in person and on the telephone; repetitively use hands to handle standard office equipment; reach with arms and hands; and lift up to 25 pounds. Visual acuity requirements include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus. The described work environment characteristics are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions. Employees typically work in standard office conditions with low-to-moderate noise levels. In certain assignments, the employee may work near moving machinery and be exposed to toxic or caustic chemicals, biological hazards, airborne vapors, outdoor weather conditions, and prolonged loud noise. Work Location: On-site employment