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 field
• 6+ years of experience in factory operations, production engineering, or hardware manufacturing
• Working knowledge of composite fabrication or other complex, high-performance materials
• Experience scaling production systems and deploying new manufacturing lines
• Exposure to post-processing methods such as machining, quality inspection, or thermal treatments
• Familiarity with ERP or MRP systems and data-informed decision-making
• Proven ability to manage cross-functional technical teams in dynamic, hands-on environments

Preferred Experience

• 10+ years in advanced manufacturing, hardware production, or operational leadership
• Hands-on experience with additive manufacturing processes (composite or metal)
• Background in building or operating smart factories with integrated automation and controls
• Familiarity with thermal protection systems, propulsion hardware, or structural aerospace components
• Knowledge of facility infrastructure including power, gas, and safety compliance systems
• Strength in Excel or similar tools for factory modeling and operational analytics
• Deep understanding of aerospace-grade composites such as phenolics, carbon-carbon, or ceramic matrices

Why Join Us

• Build from the ground up alongside a visionary leadership team
• Take ownership of a novel manufacturing platform reshaping aerospace production
• Join a mission-driven team working on critical space and defense applications
• Contribute to a modern, automated factory environment with real impact
• High-growth equity opportunity at the early stage of scale
• Career advancement with leadership and strategic influence
• Competitive salary + equity options
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Flexible, high-impact work environment

Compensation Details

$130,000 - $200,000