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Critical Manufacturing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The role owns critical manufacturing processes or technologies, leads high‐impact improvement initiatives, and serves as a subject‐matter expert for process capability, equipment performance, and ...

Manufacturing Engineer III

Syracuse, NY · On-site

$89K - $123K/yr

The role owns critical manufacturing processes or technologies, leads high-impact improvement initiatives, and serves as a subject-matter expert for process capability, equipment performance, and ...

Sr. Manufacturing Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

Position Overview The Senior Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for developing, improving, and sustaining manufacturing processes for modular power, electrical, and mission critical infrastructure ...

Manufacturing Engineer IV

Newport, VT · On-site

$74K - $96K/yr

THE COMPANY Galvion designs, develops, and manufactures ballistic helmets and dynamic power and ... Define and control critical process parameters (temperature, pressure, cure time, consolidation)

Manufacturing Engineer IV

Newport, VT · On-site

$74K - $96K/yr

THE COMPANY Galvion designs, develops, and manufactures ballistic helmets and dynamic power and ... Define and control critical process parameters (temperature, pressure, cure time, consolidation)

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Critical Manufacturing information

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How much do critical manufacturing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for critical manufacturing in the United States is $20.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $17.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is critical manufacturing?

Critical Manufacturing refers to the production processes and operations that are essential for the functioning of key industries, such as aerospace, defense, medical devices, and semiconductors. These manufacturing activities are often highly regulated and require strict quality control, advanced technologies, and robust security measures to ensure product reliability and safety. Critical Manufacturing can also refer to companies that provide Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) designed to optimize and monitor complex industrial operations. The term highlights the importance of these processes in supporting infrastructure, public health, and national security.

What are the common challenges faced by professionals working in critical manufacturing environments?

Professionals in critical manufacturing often navigate challenges such as maintaining strict quality control standards, ensuring equipment reliability, and adhering to rigorous safety protocols. The work environment is typically fast-paced and highly regulated, requiring constant attention to detail and the ability to quickly resolve production issues. Collaboration with cross-functional teams—including engineering, quality assurance, and supply chain—is essential to meet production targets and maintain compliance. Adapting to rapidly changing technologies and continuous improvement initiatives is also a key aspect of the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in critical manufacturing, and why are they important?

To excel in Critical Manufacturing, you need a solid background in engineering, industrial processes, and quality assurance, often supported by a relevant degree or industry certifications. Familiarity with manufacturing execution systems (MES), automation tools, and lean manufacturing methodologies is typically required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective teamwork distinguish high performers in this field. These competencies are vital to maintain high production standards, ensure operational efficiency, and minimize errors in mission-critical environments.

What is the difference between Critical Manufacturing vs Manufacturing Technician?

AspectCritical ManufacturingManufacturing Technician
Required CredentialsTypically requires a degree in engineering, manufacturing, or related fieldsOften requires a high school diploma or associate degree, with technical certifications
Work EnvironmentIndustrial settings, factories, and production plants with advanced machineryFactory floors, assembly lines, and equipment maintenance areas
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in high-tech, aerospace, and specialized manufacturing sectorsCommon across various manufacturing industries including automotive and electronics

Critical Manufacturing professionals focus on overseeing complex production processes, ensuring quality, and managing advanced systems. Manufacturing Technicians support daily operations, perform equipment maintenance, and assist in production tasks. While both roles are essential in manufacturing, Critical Manufacturing roles typically require higher technical expertise and education.

What careers are in critical manufacturing?

Careers in critical manufacturing include roles such as manufacturing technicians, process engineers, quality control specialists, and maintenance technicians. These jobs often require knowledge of manufacturing processes, safety protocols, and the use of tools or machinery, with some positions requiring certifications or technical training.
More about Critical Manufacturing jobs

What states have the most Critical Manufacturing jobs?

States with the most job openings for Critical Manufacturing jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Critical Manufacturing jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Critical Manufacturing jobs are:

Infographic showing various Critical Manufacturing job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,185 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

MES Consultant Critical Manufacturing (CM MES) & Project Management

Tata Consultancy Service Limited

Boise, ID • On-site

$94K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 hours ago


Job description

Must Have Technical/Functional Skills:
Critical Manufacturing MES Expertise
• Configure and customize Critical Manufacturing MES applications and workflows.
• Design and implement:
o Production Dispatching
o WIP Tracking
o Genealogy & Traceability
o Resource Management
o Quality Management
o Non-Conformance & CAPA Processes
o Electronic Work Instructions
o SPC/Data Collection
• Develop and support extensions, workflows, and integrations within the CM MES platform.
• Troubleshoot production issues and implement sustainable solutions.
Roles & Responsibilities
MES Solution Delivery
• Lead implementation, upgrade, enhancement, and support activities for Critical Manufacturing MES.
• Gather and analyze business requirements from manufacturing stakeholders.
• Design and configure MES solutions aligned with production, quality, and traceability requirements.
• Drive standardization and optimization of manufacturing execution processes across sites.
• Support digital manufacturing and Industry 4.0 initiatives.
Critical Manufacturing MES Expertise
• Configure and customize Critical Manufacturing MES applications and workflows.
• Design and implement:
o Production Dispatching
o WIP Tracking
o Genealogy & Traceability
o Resource Management
o Quality Management
o Non-Conformance & CAPA Processes
o Electronic Work Instructions
o SPC/Data Collection
• Develop and support extensions, workflows, and integrations within the CM MES platform.
• Troubleshoot production issues and implement sustainable solutions.
Integration & Technical Leadership
• Lead MES integrations with:
o SAP ECC / S/4HANA
o ERP Systems
o PLM Systems
o Equipment Automation (SECS/GEM)
o Manufacturing Data Platforms
o Data Historians
o Reporting and Analytics Systems
• Work with technical architects to define integration architecture and API strategies.
• Support data migration, validation, and deployment activities.
Project Management
• Manage end-to-end MES projects and workstreams.
• Develop project plans, schedules, resource plans, and milestone tracking.
• Monitor scope, risks, dependencies, budgets, and project deliverables.
• Lead Agile/Scrum ceremonies and stakeholder governance meetings.
• Ensure timely project execution while maintaining quality and compliance standards.
• Drive vendor and offshore team coordination.
Stakeholder Management
• Partner with manufacturing leaders, engineering teams, business analysts, and IT teams.
• Conduct workshops and solution reviews with senior stakeholders.
• Prepare executive-level status reports and project dashboards.
• Act as the primary liaison between business users and technical teams.
Testing & Deployment
• Lead SIT, UAT, Performance Testing, and Production Readiness activities.
• Develop test strategies and deployment plans.
• Coordinate cutover activities and post-production support.
• Ensure successful knowledge transfer to support organizations.
Continuous Improvement
• Identify process inefficiencies and recommend MES-driven improvements.
• Support Smart Factory and Manufacturing Excellence initiatives.
• Define and track manufacturing KPIs and system performance metrics.
• Drive automation opportunities to improve operational efficiency.
Required Skills
Functional Skills
• Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES)
• Semiconductor Manufacturing Operations
• Shop Floor Control
• Production Scheduling & Dispatching
• WIP Management
• Product Genealogy & Traceability
• Quality & Compliance Management
• Manufacturing Process Optimization
• Industry 4.0 & Smart Manufacturing
Technical Skills
• Critical Manufacturing MES (CM MES)
• MES Configuration & Customization
• SQL Server / Oracle Database
• REST APIs & Web Services
• XML / JSON
• Manufacturing Equipment Integration
• SAP ECC / S/4HANA Integration
• Data Analytics & Reporting Tools
Project Management Skills
• Agile / Scrum Methodology
• Waterfall Delivery Model
• Stakeholder Management
• Risk & Issue Management
• Budget Management
• Vendor Management
• Resource Planning
• Executive Communication
Preferred Qualifications
• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field.
• PMP, PMI-ACP, PRINCE2, Scrum Master, or equivalent certification.
• Critical Manufacturing MES certification preferred.
• Experience in Semiconductor, Electronics, High-Tech, or Automotive Manufacturing.
Desired Experience
• 8+ years of MES consulting and manufacturing systems experience.
• 5+ years of hands-on Critical Manufacturing MES implementation experience.
• 3+ years of Project or Program Management experience.
• Experience leading global MES deployments across multiple manufacturing sites.
• Experience managing onsite-offshore delivery models.
Key Competencies
• Manufacturing Domain Expertise
• Solution Architecture & Design
• Leadership & Team Management
• Client Relationship Mana
Salary Range: $94,000 - $110,000 a year
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