Job Description
Job Description
Vice President of Operations – Lead Manufacturing Excellence in Aerospace-Grade 3D Composites!
Broomfield, CO | Onsite
Opportunity Summary
An emerging startup specializing in advanced composites and additive manufacturing is expanding its high-tech facility to meet increasing demand across aerospace and defense markets. As this growth accelerates, we’re hiring a Vice President of Operations to take ownership of production systems, post-processing workflows, and integrated factory operations. This is a unique opportunity to lead the scale-up of cutting-edge hardware manufacturing capabilities and shape the future of aerospace-grade parts fabrication using next-generation materials and digital manufacturing techniques. The ideal candidate brings a background in manufacturing leadership and thrives in hands-on, fast-paced environments.
About Us
We’re reimagining how critical aerospace structures are manufactured using an innovative composite 3D printing process. Our proprietary platform enables the efficient production of thermally resilient, lightweight parts by minimizing labor, tooling, and material waste. Built around a data-driven smart factory model, our system delivers full visibility and adaptive control across production lines. Our facility supports applications ranging from reentry vehicles and hypersonic platforms to satellite and propulsion systems—leveraging a broad portfolio of aerospace-qualified resins and fillers including epoxy, phenolics, silicon carbide, and carbon-carbon composites.
Job Duties
- Lead end-to-end operations for composite manufacturing, including production, post-processing, inspection, and delivery
- Design scalable systems that increase throughput and reduce cycle time across the smart factory
- Translate new materials and part designs from R&D into efficient, repeatable production processes
- Direct the installation and optimization of post-processing tools, fixtures, and hardware
- Build and oversee multidisciplinary teams supporting manufacturing, infrastructure, and safety
- Identify inefficiencies using operational data and implement systems-based performance improvements
- Partner with engineering, software, and automation teams to implement factory-wide digital solutions
- Ensure operational compliance with industry standards, including AS9100, ITAR, and OSHA / EHS
- Contribute to factory expansion plans, production line rollouts, and daily leadership of shop floor activities
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, Manufacturing Engineering, or similar technical field6+ years of experience in factory operations, production engineering, or hardware manufacturingWorking knowledge of composite fabrication or other complex, high-performance materialsExperience scaling production systems and deploying new manufacturing linesExposure to post-processing methods such as machining, quality inspection, or thermal treatmentsFamiliarity with ERP or MRP systems and data-informed decision-makingProven ability to manage cross-functional technical teams in dynamic, hands-on environmentsPreferred Experience
10+ years in advanced manufacturing, hardware production, or operational leadershipHands-on experience with additive manufacturing processes (composite or metal)Background in building or operating smart factories with integrated automation and controlsFamiliarity with thermal protection systems, propulsion hardware, or structural aerospace componentsKnowledge of facility infrastructure including power, gas, and safety compliance systemsStrength in Excel or similar tools for factory modeling and operational analyticsDeep understanding of aerospace-grade composites such as phenolics, carbon-carbon, or ceramic matricesWhy Join Us
Build from the ground up alongside a visionary leadership teamTake ownership of a novel manufacturing platform reshaping aerospace productionJoin a mission-driven team working on critical space and defense applicationsContribute to a modern, automated factory environment with real impactHigh-growth equity opportunity at the early stage of scaleCareer advancement with leadership and strategic influenceCompetitive salary + equity optionsComprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverageFlexible, high-impact work environmentCompensation Details
$130,000 - $200,000