Production Manager - 3DP

Join our team as a

Production Manager (3DP)!

This is an ONSITE role based on Raleigh, NC.

The Production Manager for the 3DP service line plans, directs, and coordinates additive manufacturing operations across a designated technology group to achieve Protolabs’ operating objectives. Owning the end-to-end value stream, this role ensures effective pre-build execution- including scheduling and analysis, build preparation, and schedule adherence- and leads all post-build activities- including build processing, final finishing, secondary operations, and inspection. The manager drives on-time delivery, quality, safety, and cost performance while overseeing supporting processes such as material management and non-production equipment to ensure successful completion of customer orders.

What You Will Do:

• Lead manufacturing operations, including staffing, capacity planning, scheduling, inventory, purchasing, safety, quality, maintenance, and cost management.
• Direct, coach, and develop supervisors and high-potential employees to build a strong, engaged workforce.
• Assess capacity needs and implement staffing strategies to attract, retain, and optimize talent.
• Manage labor efficiency, resource allocation, workload, and backlog to meet delivery and financial goals.
• Develop and implement manufacturing processes, quality standards, safety programs, and training initiatives that support operational excellence.
• Oversee budgeting, planning, inventory control, and cost accounting activities within assigned areas.
• Partner with finance and other functions to improve forecasting, planning, and operational performance tools.
• Support the deployment and enhancement of technology solutions that improve manufacturing operations and customer value.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives, including Proto Excellence, process optimization, quality, cost, and delivery performance.
• Recommend capital investments to support operational growth and efficiency.
• Communicate key operational updates and priorities to supervisors and stakeholders.

What You Bring:

• Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration or an engineering discipline, or equivilant

• At least 4 years supervisory experience in a manufacturing environment, leading a large team

• At least 8 years’ experience in manufacturing/operations roles

• Significant people management experience

• Able to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented work environment

What Sets You Apart:

• Prior experience with 3D Printing or Additive Manufacturing preferred

• Prior experience managing a team of 50+

• Experience with Kaizen and Lean Manufacturing techniques

• Experience working in a Continuous Improvement environment

What's In It For You:

• We offer a competitive salary and total rewards package
• We offer amazing benefits including but not limited to:
• Health Insurance: Traditional OR High Deductible plan
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Health Savings Account (including employer contributions)
• Dental and Vision
• Basic and Supplemental Life Insurance
• Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
• Paid caregiver leave
• You will receive at least 3 weeks of PTO + Wellness + Holiday Pay + Volunteer Hours
• 401k with company match and immediate vest
• Employee Stock Purchase Program at a discounted rate
• Matching grants through Protolabs foundation
• And More!