Production Manager in Didcot, United Kingdom

Aim high, go beyond!

At Open Cosmos we are solving the world’s biggest challenges from space, providing businesses, governments and researchers access to more readily available information than ever before - ready for the challenge? Then read on…

Working in our Chief Operating Office (COO)

Our COO Teams are the engine that powers Open Cosmos’ operations. This division brings together mission management, supply chain, and quality & product assurance to make sure every mission is delivered smoothly, reliably, and to the highest standards. They turn plans into action, keeping us efficient and mission-ready at all times.

The Production team delivers Open Cosmos satellites on time, on cost, and on quality — across multiple global sites. At Harwell, the team is growing to support around-the-clock production of complex satellite systems.

What You'll Be Doing

We're looking for a Production Manager to take ownership of the day-to-day running of our UK production operation.

Reporting to the Head of Production, you’ll be responsible for the daily management of satellite assembly, integration, and test activities across multiple shifts.

You’ll lead our Production Team Leads, set the operational rhythm, and make sure plans turn into predictable outcomes ensuring our teams, shifts, and processes work smoothly together safely, efficiently, and to a high standard.

Duties include:

• Running the day-to-day operation of AIT production across all shifts.

• Translating production plans into shift rotas, priorities, and staffing coverage.

• Leading and supporting Production Team Leads to deliver safely, on time, and to quality.

• Owning production KPIs, reviewing performance, and taking action where needed.

• Managing short-term operational risks and coordinating effective mitigations.

• Ensuring consistent use of processes, build documentation, and ERP reporting.

• Acting as the main operational interface with Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, and Facilities.

• Providing clear, structured updates to the Head of Production on performance and risks.

What You’ll Bring

• Strong knowledge of day-to-day production operations in a manufacturing or engineering environment.

• The ability to lead team leads and maintain consistency across a shift-based operation.

• A solid understanding of production KPIs, capacity planning, and operational risk management.

• Knowledge of ERP systems, shop-floor reporting, and performance dashboards.

• A clear grasp of quality systems and health & safety requirements in a technical setting.

• A structured, decisive approach — organised, calm under pressure, and focused on execution.

This role will be based onsite in Harwell, UK

To apply, you must have the legal right to work in this location.

Why Open Cosmos?

• Work at the cutting edge of space technology with customers around the globe.

• A mission-driven company making space accessible to help solve real-world challenges.

• A diverse, ambitious, and supportive team.