Plant Manager

Harmattan AI is a next-generation defense prime building autonomous and scalable defense systems. Following the close of a $200M Series B, valuing the company at $1.4 billion, we are expanding our teams and capabilities to deliver mission-critical systems to allied forces.

Our work is guided by clear values: building technologies with real-world impact, pursuing excellence in everything we do, setting ambitious goals, and taking on the hardest technical challenges. We operate in a demanding environment where rigor, ownership, and execution are expected.

We are looking for an experienced and results-oriented Plant Manager to lead operations at our production site, the global benchmark for AI-integrated and defense-grade manufacturing.
You will oversee all aspects of site performance, from production and quality to logistics, compliance, and people development, ensuring operational excellence and continuous improvement in a high-tech, regulated environment.

Operational Leadership

• Lead end-to-end factory operations across semi-automated, fully automated, and high-spec zones.

• Deliver production targets (10,000+ units/month) while optimizing OEE, cycle time, and throughput using ERP/MES.

• Apply lean principles and one-directional flow across all manufacturing zones.

Digital Manufacturing & Traceability

• Manage real-time operations through Odoo-integrated dashboards and KPIs.

• Guarantee 100% material and process traceability in line with ICPE, ISO 9001/14001, and NATO STANAG 2280.

• Drive digital twin integration and predictive maintenance initiatives.

Quality & Safety

• Ensure ≥99% FPY through in-line testing, HEXpod calibration, and final QA.

• Supervise Metrology Lab, QA systems, and non-conformance resolution (8D).

• Maintain top-tier HSE and ICPE compliance (ISO

Logistics & Material Flow

• Oversee AGV-based logistics, Kardex storage, and outbound shipment performance.

• Monitor replenishment cycles, digital Kanban triggers, and warehouse KPIs.

• Align with corporate sustainability and waste-reduction goals.

People & Culture

• Build and lead a high-performance, cross-skilled team.

• Foster a culture of precision, accountability, and continuous improvement.

• Oversee recruitment, onboarding, and training.

Governance & Reporting

• Ensure full compliance with NATO security, ESD, and audit standards.

• Report weekly and monthly KPIs to the Head of Production and executive leadership.

• Coordinate operational reviews, ethics compliance, and emergency readiness.

• Master's or Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, or equivalent.

• 8+ years of experience in complex industrial environments (aerospace, defense, or electronics).

• Proven expertise in lean manufacturing and digital MES/ERP systems (Odoo, SAP, etc.).

• Strong analytical, decision-making, and change-management skills.

• Communication & Influence: Excellent written and verbal communication in French and English, capable of leading diverse principals – from junior members to senior executives.

• Commitment: 100% dedication to Harmattan AI's mission, vision, and ambitious growth plans, ready to go the extra mile to ensure operational excellence.

Nice-to-have

• Knowledge of NATO STANAG 2280, ICPE, and ISO 9001/14001 standards.

• Experience scaling high-mix, high-precision production.

• Proficiency with Power BI or other data visualization tools.

We look forward to hearing how you can help shape the future of autonomous defense systems at Harmattan AI.