Associate Manager Production – UAV Line

The Associate Manager Production – UAV Line runs the day-to-day assembly, integration and configuration of these products on the factory floor.
The role makes sure every unit is built to the approved BOM, work instructions and firmware configuration, passes functional checks before handover to Quality, and is delivered on schedule. It suits a hands-on engineer who enjoys working with drones and wants to grow into production leadership.

Core Responsibilities:

A. Production Planning & Execution

• Plan and schedule daily and weekly UAV builds in line with the production plan issued by Production Planning.
• Assign work to technicians, and make sure manpower, tools, fixtures and materials are ready before each build.
• Track output against plan, highlight bottlenecks early and take corrective action to protect delivery dates.
• Coordinate with Warehouse for material issuance, kitting/line feeding and return of unused materials.

B. Integration, Firmware & Calibration

• Load and verify approved firmware versions on electronics, and record the version against each unit serial number.
• Apply approved parameter/configuration files and confirm settings before release.
• Perform relevant calibrations, following the defined procedures.
• Carry out functional bench checks (power-up, motor direction, link and failsafe checks) before handing units to Quality for testing.
• Troubleshoot assembly, wiring, soldering and configuration faults; escalate design-related issues to the Design team.

C. Technical Coordination

• Work with the Design / R&D team to resolve design or process issues found during production.
• Give manufacturability feedback and support pilot builds and new variants with the New Product Integration team.
• Suggest improvements to work instructions, jigs and fixtures to make builds faster and more consistent.

D. ERP & Documentation

• Make timely and accurate ERP entries for material receipt at the line, material consumption and production order completion.
• Verify material balance and work-order closure together with Warehouse and Planning teams.

E. Quality, Safety & Compliance

• Enforce SOPs, work instructions, ESD-safe practices (EPA) and soldering/crimping workmanship standards on the line.
• Ensure safe handling, storage and charging of LiPo/Li-ion batteries.
• Work with Quality on inspection results and rework; drive root cause analysis and CAPA for repeat defects.
• Maintain 5S and housekeeping standards in the UAV production area.

F. Team Leadership

• Lead a small team of technicians and operators; provide on-the-job training and maintain a skill matrix.
• Promote discipline, teamwork and accountability within the line.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Bachelor of Engineering in Mechatronics (preferred). Graduates in Electrical, Electronics, Mechanical or Avionics Engineering with relevant UAV exposure will also be considered.
• IPC soldering/workmanship training or courses in UAV systems (ArduPilot, PX4, Betaflight) will be an advantage.
• 2–3 years of experience in electronics, electro-mechanical or UAV assembly/production, or in robotics or defence electronics manufacturing.
• Hands-on UAV work, including university projects or competitions, will be given strong weight.