Senior Manager/Director of Manufacturing - 3D Printing Equipment (Outsourced Production)

Key Responsibilities

• Leadership & Strategy
• Develop and execute the overall manufacturing strategy for 3D printer systems and components for Optomec AJ line of printers.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with external manufacturing partners (CMs, ODMs, OEMs).
• Align manufacturing objectives with company goals for cost, quality, capacity, and time-to-market.
• Outsourced Manufacturing Management
• Oversee all aspects of outsourced production — from qualification and onboarding to full-scale production.
• Negotiate contracts, service level agreements, and pricing with manufacturing partners.
• Manage production schedules, material flows, and yield performance.
• Ensure time schedules for customer delivery are being met.
• Operational Excellence
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives in yield, cost reduction, and process efficiency.
• Establish and monitor KPIs for supplier performance, quality, delivery, and cost.
• Ensure compliance with ISO, CE, UL, and other relevant manufacturing standards.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration
• Partner with R&D, Quality, Supply Chain, and Engineering teams to ensure manufacturability and product reliability.
• Support new product introduction (NPI) and scaling from prototype to mass production.
• Lead manufacturing readiness reviews and root cause analysis for production issues.
• Team Development
• Build and mentor a high-performing manufacturing operations team.
• Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, work with senior management to meet company goals.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, or Manufacturing Engineering (MBA preferred).
• 10+ years of experience in manufacturing management of electro-mechanical or industrial equipment, preferably in 3D printing, robotics, or similar high-tech sectors.
• Proven experience managing outsourced/contract manufacturing relationships (domestic and international).
• Strong knowledge of NPI processes, supply chain integration, and quality management systems (ISO 9001, 13485 a plus).
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and deliver on key operational KPIs.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and project management skills.
• Ability to travel internationally as required.

Preferred Experience

• Hands-on experience in 3D printing technology, precision mechatronics, or additive manufacturing systems.
• Experience scaling production from prototype to high-volume manufacturing.
• Familiarity with Lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and DFX principles.
• Managing project deliverables to plan to meet customer and company goals.

Pay

Competitive salary, performance-based bonus, and comprehensive benefits package.