Bachelor's or master's in Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, or Manufacturing Engineering (MBA preferred)
10+ years in manufacturing management of electro-mechanical or industrial equipment, preferably in 3D printing or robotics
Experience managing outsourced/contract manufacturing relationships domestically and internationally
Strong knowledge of NPI processes, supply chain integration, and quality management systems (ISO 9001, 13485 a plus)
Demonstrated leadership of cross-functional teams and delivery on operational KPIs
Excellent negotiation, communication, and project management skills
Willingness to travel internationally as required
Responsibilities
Develop and execute manufacturing strategy for 3D printer systems and components
Build and maintain relationships with external manufacturing partners
Align manufacturing objectives with company goals for cost, quality, and delivery
Oversee outsourced production from qualification to full-scale
Negotiate contracts and manage production schedules with manufacturing partners
Drive continuous improvement in yield, cost reduction, and efficiency
Partner with cross-functional teams to ensure manufacturability and reliability
Benefits
Comprehensive benefits package includes health, dental, and vision insurance
Performance-based bonus structure
Opportunities for international travel and engagement
Professional development and mentoring opportunities
A culture that fosters accountability and continuous improvement
Full Job Description
We are seeking a Senior Manager / Director of Manufacturing to lead the global manufacturing operations for our advanced 3D printing hardware and equipment. This role will oversee all aspects of outsourced manufacturing with key contract manufacturing partners (CMs/ODMs/OEMs), ensuring world-class quality, cost efficiency, scalability, and delivery performance.
The ideal candidate will have deep experience managing outsourced production of complex electro-mechanical systems, a strong understanding of manufacturing process development, and a track record of driving continuous improvement across global supply networks.
Requirements
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.
Strong analytical and task oriented project management skills for delivery of systems on time and within budget.
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
Compensation:
Competitive salary, performance-based bonus, and comprehensive benefits package.
About Optomec
Optomec is a privately held supplier of additive manufacturing equipment and software. The company was founded in 1997 and is headquartered in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Optomec's products are used in a variety of industries, including aerospace, defense, energy, and electronics. The company's main product lines include Aerosol Jet and LENS. Aerosol Jet is a printing technology that can be used to print electronic circuits and other functional materials onto 3D surfaces. LENS is a metal 3D printing technology that can be used to repair or add material to existing metal parts. Optomec has received funding from a variety of sources, including venture capital firms and government agencies.
