Manufacturing Operations Manager

AMPeers is a technology startup in Houston, TX, developing next-generation high-temperature superconductor (HTS) tapes and symmetric tape round (STAR®) superconducting wires. Our technology, discovered at the University of Houston in 1987, enables widespread adoption of superconductors in fusion magnets, power transmission, and next-generation electric machines. As we transition from pilot-scale production to commercial manufacturing, we are building our first dedicated production facility in Houston.

About the role

The Manufacturing Operations Manager will own the commissioning of our first dedicated production facility and manage day-to-day operations in an advanced materials manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead facility commissioning including infrastructure set up, equipment installation, utility coordination, and contractor management
• Develop SOPs, EHS protocols, and quality systems from the ground up
• Manage chemical handling procedures for process gases and solvents in compliance with OSHA and local regulations
• Coordinate with the equipment engineering team on tool qualification, preventive maintenance, and uptime targets
• Manage facility vendors and consumables suppliers
• Build and develop the operations team as headcount scales

Requirements

• Comfort standing up systems and processes without a template
• Direct experience in a capital-equipment-intensive process manufacturing environment (semiconductor, thin film, roll-to-roll, battery, solar, or specialty materials)
• Experience managing facility buildouts, equipment commissioning, or contractor coordination
• 5+ years in manufacturing operations, process engineering, or plant management

Preferred Qualifications

• Hands-on familiarity with vacuum systems or deposition tools (CVD, PVD, ALD, or similar)
• Experience writing SOPs and implementing safety or quality programs
• Background in cryogenic, high-vacuum, or thin film materials environments
• Prior experience at an early-stage or scaling manufacturing operation

Benefits

• Medical coverage (HMO and PPO plan options)
• Dental coverage with 100% no-deductible preventive care
• Vision coverage
• Company-paid basic life and AD&D insurance
• 401(k) plan with company contribution