Director of Manufacturing Operations Jobs
Director of Manufacturing Operations jobs are open across aerospace, automotive, consumer goods, food and beverage, and industrial manufacturing, from plant manager level to VP, with specializations in lean operations, supply chain integration, and multi-site production management. See the openings below and apply to the ones that match your experience.
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Showing 5 of 49+ Director of Manufacturing Operations jobs
Application close date:
Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the requisition is closed.At Blue Origin, we envision millions of people living and working in space for the benefit of Earth. We’re working to develop reusable, safe, and low-cost space vehicles and systems within a culture of safety, collaboration, and inclusion. Join our team of problem solvers as we add new chapters to the history of spaceflight!
This role is part of Blue Origin Operations, which is comprised of Integrated Supply Chain, Test Operations, Safety, Quality, and Mission Assurance. This includes Manufacturing and Supply Chain support across all Blue Origin facilities.About Blue Origin
We are a team of collaborators, doers, and problem-solvers who are relentlessly committed to a culture of safety. These positions will directly impact the history of space exploration and will require your commitment and detailed attention towards safe and repeatable spaceflight. Join us in lowering the cost of access to space and enabling Blue Origin's vision of millions of people living and working in space to benefit Earth.
We are looking for senior leaders to apply their technical expertise , leadership skills, and commitment to quality to positively impact safe human spaceflight. Passion for our mission and vision is required .
About This Opportunity
Blue Origin is actively building its senior manufacturing and operations leadership team across multiple sites. We are seeking experienced Directors and Senior Directors with a strong aerospace background to lead high-performing teams in support of rocket engine and spacecraft production programs.
By expressing interest in this opportunity, you will be considered for current and future openings aligned to your experience and location preference. Roles span the following functional areas:
Manufacturing
Provides senior leadership across production operations including assembly, machine shop, heat treat, welding, and component fabrication for space systems and propulsion programs. Accountable for establishing and maintaining process controls, driving production efficiency, and ensuring safe, repeatable spaceflight hardware delivery at all stages of the product lifecycle.
Test
Provides leadership across test operations supporting engine, component , and system-level testing. Accountable for ensuring test processes are executed safely, efficiently, and in alignment with program requirements. Drives continuous improvement in test throughput, first-time quality, and the feedback loop between test results and production processes.
Fabrication
Provides leadership across fabrication operations including machining, welding, composites, additive manufacturing, cleaning, and post-processing of flight hardware. Accountable for the development, qualification, and continuous improvement of fabrication processes and capabilities that meet the demanding quality and schedule requirements of space and propulsion programs.
Integration
Provides leadership across integration operations supporting the assembly and verification of complex space systems, launch vehicles, and propulsion hardware. Accountable for coordinating cross-functional teams to ensure the safe, on-time integration of hardware in alignment with engineering requirements, mission assurance standards, and program milestones.
Key Responsibilities:
Leaders across these functional areas are expected to:
Lead and develop teams of Managers , Senior Managers , and Directors driving manufacturing and operations execution across space and propulsion programs
Champion a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement across all functional teams
Own departmental KPIs, budgets, staffing plans, and capital project portfolios
Partner with Program Management, Site Leadership, and cross-functional stakeholders to meet production schedules and customer expectations
Drive process definition, development, deployment, and improvement initiatives including Lean Manufacturing and root cause analysis
Collaborate with engineering teams to advance Design for Manufacturability principles and accelerate the transition from development to production
Implement and mature production frameworks that support world-class manufacturing capabilities
Communicate and enforce mission assurance and safety principles throughout the organization
Recruit, develop, coach, and mentor talent at all levels of the organization
Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical , Manufacturing, Industrial, Aerospace, or Electrical Engineering, or equivalent experience
15 or more years of progressive experience in aerospace manufacturing or a closely related industry, such as launch vehicles, aircraft , spacecraft systems, or defense
5 or more years in a senior leadership role managing managers and large, cross-functional teams
Demonstrated experience leading manufacturing and operations teams in fast-paced, complex environments
Proven ability to manage budgets, schedules, and capital projects at a department or program level
Strong quality mindset with expertise in root cause analysis and corrective action methodologies
Experience with process definition, development, deployment, measurement, and continuous improvement
Effective communicator across all levels of an organization, including executive leadership
Must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum
Preferred Qualifications:
Master's degree, MBA, or advanced degree in a relevant engineering or business field
Prior experience in aerospace environments supporting space hardware, rocket propulsion, or other mission-critical, high-value components
Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing, the Toyota Production System, or Six Sigma; Black Belt certification preferred
Experience transitioning manufacturing capabilities from development and prototyping into full-rate production
Knowledge of fabrication processes including machining, welding, composites, additive manufacturing, cleaning, and non-destructive testing
Experience with facility activation, new production line startup, or multi-site manufacturing operations
Proficiency with MRP/ERP, PLM, and Manufacturing Execution Systems
Base Pay Range for:
WA applicants is $203,165.00 - $284,430.30Other site ranges may differ
Culture Statement
Don’t meet all desired requirements? Studies have shown that some people are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single desired qualification. At Blue Origin, we are dedicated to building an authentic workplace, so if you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every desired qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.
Export Control Regulations
Applicants for employment at Blue Origin must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e. current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum.
Background Check
- Required for all positions: Blue’s Standard Background Check
- Required for Certain Job Profiles: Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) background check if at any time the role requires one to be on a military installation
- Required for Certain Job Profiles: Drivers who operate Commercial Motor Vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or combination of power unit and trailer that meets or exceeds 10,001 lbs. and/or transports placardable amounts of hazardous materials by ground in any vehicle on a public road while in commerce, may be subject to additional Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations including: Driver Qualification Files, Medical Certification (obtained before onboarding), Road Test, Hours of Service, Drug and Alcohol Testing, vehicle inspection requirements, CDL requirements (if applicable) and hazardous materials transportation/shipping training. Required for certain Job Profiles: Ability to obtain and maintain Merchant Mariner Credential, which includes pre-employment and random drug testing as well as DOT physical
Benefits
- Benefits include: Medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance, paid parental leave, short and long-term disability, 401(k) with a company match of up to 5%, and an Education Support Program.
- Stock Options for all regular employees (working at least 20 hours/week)
- Paid Time Off: Up to four (4) weeks per year based on weekly scheduled hours, and up to 14 company-paid holidays. Dependent on role type and job level, employees may be eligible for benefits and bonuses based on the company's intent to reward individual contributions and enable them to share in the company's results, or other factors at the company's sole discretion. Bonus amounts and eligibility are not guaranteed and subject to change and cancellation. Please check with your recruiter for more details.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Blue Origin is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to attracting, retaining, and developing a highly qualified and dedicated work force. Blue Origin hires and promotes people on the basis of their qualifications, performance, and abilities. We support the establishment and maintenance of a workplace that fosters trust, equality, and teamwork. We provide all qualified applicants for employment and employees with equal opportunities for hire, promotion, and other terms and conditions of employment, regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin/ethnicity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local law. Blue Origin will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the Washington Fair Chance Act, the California Fair Chance Act, the Los Angeles Fair Chance in Hiring Ordinance, and other applicable laws.
Affirmative Action and Disability Accommodation
Applicants wishing to receive information on Blue Origin’s Affirmative Action Plans, or applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in the application and/or interview process, please contact us at EEOCompliance@blueorigin.com . Please note this is a publicly managed inbox. Please do not include any personal medical information in your request.
Application close date:
Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the requisition is closed.At Blue Origin, we envision millions of people living and working in space for the benefit of Earth. We’re working to develop reusable, safe, and low-cost space vehicles and systems within a culture of safety, collaboration, and inclusion. Join our team of problem solvers as we add new chapters to the history of spaceflight!
This role is part of Blue Origin Operations, which is comprised of Integrated Supply Chain, Test Operations, Safety, Quality, and Mission Assurance. This includes Manufacturing and Supply Chain support across all Blue Origin facilities.About Blue Origin
We are a team of collaborators, doers, and problem-solvers who are relentlessly committed to a culture of safety. These positions will directly impact the history of space exploration and will require your commitment and detailed attention towards safe and repeatable spaceflight. Join us in lowering the cost of access to space and enabling Blue Origin's vision of millions of people living and working in space to benefit Earth.
We are looking for senior leaders to apply their technical expertise , leadership skills, and commitment to quality to positively impact safe human spaceflight. Passion for our mission and vision is required .
About This Opportunity
Blue Origin is actively building its senior manufacturing and operations leadership team across multiple sites. We are seeking experienced Directors and Senior Directors with a strong aerospace background to lead high-performing teams in support of rocket engine and spacecraft production programs.
By expressing interest in this opportunity, you will be considered for current and future openings aligned to your experience and location preference. Roles span the following functional areas:
Manufacturing
Provides senior leadership across production operations including assembly, machine shop, heat treat, welding, and component fabrication for space systems and propulsion programs. Accountable for establishing and maintaining process controls, driving production efficiency, and ensuring safe, repeatable spaceflight hardware delivery at all stages of the product lifecycle.
Test
Provides leadership across test operations supporting engine, component , and system-level testing. Accountable for ensuring test processes are executed safely, efficiently, and in alignment with program requirements. Drives continuous improvement in test throughput, first-time quality, and the feedback loop between test results and production processes.
Fabrication
Provides leadership across fabrication operations including machining, welding, composites, additive manufacturing, cleaning, and post-processing of flight hardware. Accountable for the development, qualification, and continuous improvement of fabrication processes and capabilities that meet the demanding quality and schedule requirements of space and propulsion programs.
Integration
Provides leadership across integration operations supporting the assembly and verification of complex space systems, launch vehicles, and propulsion hardware. Accountable for coordinating cross-functional teams to ensure the safe, on-time integration of hardware in alignment with engineering requirements, mission assurance standards, and program milestones.
Key Responsibilities:
Leaders across these functional areas are expected to:
Lead and develop teams of Managers , Senior Managers , and Directors driving manufacturing and operations execution across space and propulsion programs
Champion a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement across all functional teams
Own departmental KPIs, budgets, staffing plans, and capital project portfolios
Partner with Program Management, Site Leadership, and cross-functional stakeholders to meet production schedules and customer expectations
Drive process definition, development, deployment, and improvement initiatives including Lean Manufacturing and root cause analysis
Collaborate with engineering teams to advance Design for Manufacturability principles and accelerate the transition from development to production
Implement and mature production frameworks that support world-class manufacturing capabilities
Communicate and enforce mission assurance and safety principles throughout the organization
Recruit, develop, coach, and mentor talent at all levels of the organization
Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical , Manufacturing, Industrial, Aerospace, or Electrical Engineering, or equivalent experience
15 or more years of progressive experience in aerospace manufacturing or a closely related industry, such as launch vehicles, aircraft , spacecraft systems, or defense
5 or more years in a senior leadership role managing managers and large, cross-functional teams
Demonstrated experience leading manufacturing and operations teams in fast-paced, complex environments
Proven ability to manage budgets, schedules, and capital projects at a department or program level
Strong quality mindset with expertise in root cause analysis and corrective action methodologies
Experience with process definition, development, deployment, measurement, and continuous improvement
Effective communicator across all levels of an organization, including executive leadership
Must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum
Preferred Qualifications:
Master's degree, MBA, or advanced degree in a relevant engineering or business field
Prior experience in aerospace environments supporting space hardware, rocket propulsion, or other mission-critical, high-value components
Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing, the Toyota Production System, or Six Sigma; Black Belt certification preferred
Experience transitioning manufacturing capabilities from development and prototyping into full-rate production
Knowledge of fabrication processes including machining, welding, composites, additive manufacturing, cleaning, and non-destructive testing
Experience with facility activation, new production line startup, or multi-site manufacturing operations
Proficiency with MRP/ERP, PLM, and Manufacturing Execution Systems
Base Pay Range for:
WA applicants is $203,165.00 - $284,430.30Other site ranges may differ
Culture Statement
Don’t meet all desired requirements? Studies have shown that some people are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single desired qualification. At Blue Origin, we are dedicated to building an authentic workplace, so if you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every desired qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.
Export Control Regulations
Applicants for employment at Blue Origin must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e. current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum.
Background Check
- Required for all positions: Blue’s Standard Background Check
- Required for Certain Job Profiles: Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) background check if at any time the role requires one to be on a military installation
- Required for Certain Job Profiles: Drivers who operate Commercial Motor Vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or combination of power unit and trailer that meets or exceeds 10,001 lbs. and/or transports placardable amounts of hazardous materials by ground in any vehicle on a public road while in commerce, may be subject to additional Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations including: Driver Qualification Files, Medical Certification (obtained before onboarding), Road Test, Hours of Service, Drug and Alcohol Testing, vehicle inspection requirements, CDL requirements (if applicable) and hazardous materials transportation/shipping training. Required for certain Job Profiles: Ability to obtain and maintain Merchant Mariner Credential, which includes pre-employment and random drug testing as well as DOT physical
Benefits
- Benefits include: Medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance, paid parental leave, short and long-term disability, 401(k) with a company match of up to 5%, and an Education Support Program.
- Stock Options for all regular employees (working at least 20 hours/week)
- Paid Time Off: Up to four (4) weeks per year based on weekly scheduled hours, and up to 14 company-paid holidays. Dependent on role type and job level, employees may be eligible for benefits and bonuses based on the company's intent to reward individual contributions and enable them to share in the company's results, or other factors at the company's sole discretion. Bonus amounts and eligibility are not guaranteed and subject to change and cancellation. Please check with your recruiter for more details.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Blue Origin is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to attracting, retaining, and developing a highly qualified and dedicated work force. Blue Origin hires and promotes people on the basis of their qualifications, performance, and abilities. We support the establishment and maintenance of a workplace that fosters trust, equality, and teamwork. We provide all qualified applicants for employment and employees with equal opportunities for hire, promotion, and other terms and conditions of employment, regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin/ethnicity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local law. Blue Origin will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the Washington Fair Chance Act, the California Fair Chance Act, the Los Angeles Fair Chance in Hiring Ordinance, and other applicable laws.
Affirmative Action and Disability Accommodation
Applicants wishing to receive information on Blue Origin’s Affirmative Action Plans, or applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in the application and/or interview process, please contact us at EEOCompliance@blueorigin.com . Please note this is a publicly managed inbox. Please do not include any personal medical information in your request.
See All 49 Director of Manufacturing Operations Jobs
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Find JobsDirector of Manufacturing Operations Job Market
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Distribution & Wholesale
What Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in director of manufacturing operations jobs.
- Bachelor's degree in engineering, operations management, or a related technical field
- 10 or more years of progressive manufacturing leadership experience including direct team management
- Demonstrated proficiency with lean manufacturing principles and Six Sigma methodology
- Experience managing P&L responsibility and driving measurable cost reduction initiatives
- Strong knowledge of ERP systems such as SAP, Oracle, or similar platforms
- Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification preferred by most employers
Tips for Your Director of Manufacturing Operations Job Search
Quantify your P&L and throughput results
Hiring teams for this role expect hard numbers on cost reduction, yield improvement, and output gains. Pull specific figures from your last two or three positions and lead every bullet on your resume with the measurable result before the action you took.
Highlight multi-site or multi-shift oversight
Many director of manufacturing operations postings filter heavily for candidates who have run more than one facility or coordinated across shifts. If you've done it, name the number of sites, headcount, and annual throughput volume explicitly in your summary and in each relevant role.
Match your resume to the production system named
Postings will specify lean, Six Sigma, TPM, or a proprietary production system. Mirror the exact terminology from each job description in your resume rather than a generic synonym, since applicant tracking systems score for phrase matches before a human reads anything.
Apply early to roles that fit
Migrate Mate lists director of manufacturing operations openings from across the United States in one place, so you can find roles that match and apply directly to each listing.
Prepare a turnaround or ramp-up story
Interviewers for director-level manufacturing roles almost always ask you to walk through a time you fixed a struggling line or scaled a new product launch. Structure your answer around the initial state, the decisions you made, who you led, and the outcome within a defined timeline.
Negotiate total comp beyond base salary
Directors of manufacturing operations routinely receive performance bonuses tied to OEE targets, safety metrics, or cost savings. Before your final conversation, clarify which operational KPIs trigger the bonus and what the payout range looks like so you can evaluate the full offer accurately.
Director of Manufacturing Operations Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies are hiring the most director of manufacturing operationss?
Blue Origin, Amazon, and EY are hiring the most director of manufacturing operationss right now, with openings concentrated in Texas, Ohio, and New York, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Demand is especially consistent among large consumer goods, automotive, and industrial equipment manufacturers with multi-site operations.
How many director of manufacturing operations jobs are remote?
About 33% of director of manufacturing operations openings are fully remote or hybrid as of November 2026, reflecting the hands-on nature of overseeing production floors. The sub-functions most likely to allow partial remote work include strategic planning, cross-site reporting, and continuous improvement program management rather than day-to-day plant oversight.
How do you become a director of manufacturing operations?
Start by building a foundation in a production or industrial engineering role, then move into supervisory positions that give you direct team and budget responsibility. Progress through plant manager or operations manager roles where you oversee full production cycles. Earn a lean or Six Sigma certification to demonstrate process improvement credibility, and seek out roles that include multi-site or cross-functional scope before applying at the director level.
Can you get hired as a director of manufacturing operations without direct experience at that level?
Yes, candidates who have been plant managers or senior operations managers with P&L ownership and multi-shift oversight are regularly considered for director roles. The key is demonstrating that you've already performed most of the core responsibilities at a smaller scale. Closing any credential gaps with a lean certification and showing measurable cost or efficiency outcomes from prior roles strengthens your case significantly.
What does the director of manufacturing operations interview process look like?
The process typically begins with a recruiter screen focused on leadership scope and industry background, followed by a panel interview with HR, the VP of Operations, and sometimes the CFO. Candidates are usually asked to walk through a past operational turnaround or improvement initiative in detail. A final round often includes a site visit, a presentation on your operational philosophy, and a conversation with plant-level leaders you would manage.
Where can I find and apply to director of manufacturing operations jobs?
You can find and apply to director of manufacturing operations jobs on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from across the United States. Search for roles that match your industry background and seniority level, then apply directly to each listing that fits your experience.
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