THE COMPANY

Our client, is a highly respected, privately held U.S. aerospace company and global leader in the design, engineering, manufacturing, and servicing of sophisticated aircraft ground support equipment (GSE), engine tooling, and maintenance equipment. Founded in early 1970’s and headquartered in Southern California, this distinguished leader has built a 50+ year reputation for engineering excellence, quality, and innovation, serving leading airlines, aerospace OEMs, MRO organizations, aerospace leasing companies, and military & defense customers worldwide. As part of its continued growth and international expansion, this company is establishing a new manufacturing operation in Querétaro, Mexico, modeled after its flagship California facility.

The operation will incorporate advanced metal fabrication, welding, CNC machining, assembly, and finishing to manufacture highly engineered GSE and aerospace tooling.

THE POSITION

Job Summary

This integral leader is seeking an experienced and results-driven Site Manager (Plant Manager) to lead its Querétaro manufacturing operations, delivering world-class Ground Support Equipment (GSE) and precision metal fabrication for the aerospace industry. Modeled after the companies’ proven Southern California site capabilities, this facility will encompass advanced fabrication, welding, CNC machining, assembly, and finishing operations in support of both domestic and international customers. The ideal candidate will bring at least 10 years of progressive leadership in manufacturing with expertise in metal fabrication, manufacturing plant start-ups,



and lean operations.

The Site

Manager will oversee all aspects of small to mid-size plant start-up and operations including Human Resources, production, quality, supply chain, maintenance, and site administration, while driving a culture of operational excellence, continuous improvement, and safety.

The Site

Manager (Plant Manager) will be based in Queretaro, Mexico.

THE CANDIDATE

Job Requirements and Qualifications

- Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related technical field.
- Minimum of 10 years of progressive leadership experience as a plant manager or similar with plant oversight, preferably within heavy-duty metal fabrication, or Tier 1 / Tier 2 aerospace manufacturing environments (or similar) but open to other manufacturing sectors.
- Deep knowledge of some of the following manufacturing processes: MIG/TIG welding, structural steel and aluminum fabrication (press brake, metal forming, bending, laser cutting, etc.), CNC machining, mechanical assembly, and surface finishing (painting).
- Familiarity with aerospace, military / defense, or commercial ground support standards and specifications (e.g., ATA,



FAA, AS9100, NADCAP where applicable) would a plus but not required.
- Experience implementing and managing ISO 9001 or AS9100 quality management systems in a fabrication or aerospace manufacturing environment is preferred.
- Demonstrated experience leading greenfield or startup manufacturing operations, including obtaining required permits and approvals from Mexican government and regulatory entities, recruiting and training new staff, workforce development, and establishing site policies, procedures, and operating processes, facility layout, and equipment qualification.
- Knowledge of Mexican labor law (LFT), STPS/EHS regulations, IMSS compliance, and manufacturing regulations. Familiarity with Querétaro or similar industrial zones in the surrounding region.
- Proven ability to lead, coach, and develop multidisciplinary production teams in a fast-paced, multicultural environment.
- Proficient in interpreting technical drawings, GD&T;, welding symbols, and fabrication tolerances.
- Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills with a continuous improvement mindset.
- Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, U.S.-based senior management, and local government or regulatory stakeholders.
- Fluency in Spanish (written and verbal) is required; professional proficiency in English is required for cross-border communication with U.S. headquarters.
- Ability to travel domestically and internationally as required. Valid U.S. Travel Visa.

📌 Site Manager (Plant Manager) – Greenfield Manufacturing Startup (Santiago de Querétaro)
🏢 Barbachano International
📍 Santiago de Querétaro