Manufacturing Operations Manager

We're looking for a hands-on Manufacturing Operations Manager to run production of our robotic systems and own our MES (Manufacturing Execution System) implementation - ideally with Tulip. You'll be on the floor daily, understand the build process for complex robotic hardware, and directly configure and deploy digital workflows that replace paper-based processes, giving the business real-time production visibility.

What You'll Do

Manufacturing Operations

• Manage day-to-day operations for production/assembly of robotic systems (arms, cabinets, end effectors, and related subassemblies)

• Understand mechanical assembly, wiring/harnessing, electro-mechanical integration, and functional test steps well enough to troubleshoot directly with technicians

• Lead root cause analysis on build defects, quality escapes, and process deviations

• Own production scheduling, capacity planning, and staffing for your area

• Drive continuous improvement (Lean/Six Sigma) across assembly lines and test stations

• Partner with mechanical/electrical/manufacturing engineering on new product introductions (NPI), ensuring assembly processes and MES workflows are designed in from the start

• Manage and develop a team of technicians/assemblers, including performance reviews and coaching

MES Implementation & Ownership

• Lead the implementation, configuration, and rollout of MES software

• Build and maintain digital work instructions, operator apps, and andon/alert workflows, and data collection stations within the MES platform

• Integrate MES with test equipment, torque tools, scanners, and fixtures to capture real-time production data (cycle time, first-pass yield, scrap, downtime reasons)

• Train assemblers, technicians, and supervisors on new digital workflows; drive adoption and resolve resistance to change

• Build dashboards and reporting from MES data to give leadership visibility into production performance and traceability (especially serialized component/subassembly tracking)

What You'll Bring

• 5+ years in manufacturing operations, ideally within robotics, complex electro-mechanical assembly, or similar high-mix/precision hardware manufacturing

• Demonstrated experience implementing an MES system from the ground up - not just using one already in place. Tulip experience strongly preferred; will consider comparable platforms

• Comfortable being on the floor daily - not a desk-only role

• Understanding of OEE, first-pass yield, downtime tracking, and how to translate shop-floor data into actionable improvement

• Strong people leadership skills, including experience managing technicians/assemblers

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, or related field (or equivalent hands-on experience)

• Preferred: Lean/Six Sigma certification