Head of Manufacturing

Confidential - Head of Manufacturing
Midwest U.S. | Full-Time | Equity Eligible
The Opportunity
 
A rapidly growing technology company is building its first fully owned U.S. manufacturing operation and is seeking a Head of Manufacturing to lead the effort.
 
This is a true build-and-scale leadership role. You will stand up a new facility, define the manufacturing strategy, build the team, and own the day-to-day execution of electronics production. The company has established technology, an active customer base, and a clear path to growth. This role offers equity participation and the opportunity to grow into a broader executive leadership position as the organization scales.
 
What You'll Do

• Lead the buildout and commissioning of a new U.S.-based manufacturing facility
• Own equipment selection, procurement, and qualification for SMT and electronics production lines
• Develop production processes, workflows, quality systems, and safety protocols
• Establish capacity planning, scheduling, and throughput targets

Production Execution

• Oversee day-to-day manufacturing operations for electronics assembly (modules and full device / box build)
• Drive improvements in yield, cycle time, cost, and quality
• Own and report on key operational KPIs
• Partner with supply chain on materials planning and execution

Team Building & Leadership

• Build and lead a high-performing team of technicians, engineers, and operators
• Establish training programs and career development pathways
• Create a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvement

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with engineering on DFM, NPI, and ECO processes
• Work closely with product and program teams to meet delivery timelines
• Serve as the manufacturing voice in strategic planning discussions

What We're Looking

• 10+ years in electronics manufacturing, including hands-on SMT experience
• Proven track record of building or scaling a manufacturing operation
• Deep knowledge of SMT equipment (pick-and-place, reflow, AOI, etc.)
• Experience with both module-level and full device / box build production
• Prior leadership experience building and managing teams
• Strong understanding of quality systems (ISO, IPC, or equivalent)

Preferred Experience

• Background in cellular, IoT, wireless, or embedded electronics
• Experience with NPI and working alongside hardware engineering teams
• Familiarity with ERP and/or MES systems
• Experience managing or transitioning from contract manufacturing

Who You Are

• A builder who thrives in creating structure from the ground up
• Hands-on and comfortable working on the manufacturing floor
• Accountable and results-driven
• Strong communicator across technical and executive audiences
• Adaptable in a fast-paced, evolving environment

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive base salary
• Equity participation
• Comprehensive benefits package
• Clear path for growth into senior/executive leadership

About the Company
 
Our client is a technology-driven organization focused on connectivity and embedded electronics solutions. As they bring manufacturing capabilities in-house, this role will play a critical part in shaping their operational foundation and long-term growth.