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Director Advanced Manufacturing Jobs in Minnesota

Manufacturing Engineer I

Winona, MN · On-site

$71K - $107K/yr

... defense, advanced computing, next-generation communications, complex industrials, medical, and ... surveys as directed by management. • Actively participate in Lean projects and activities ...

New

Lead, direct and maintain a team of cross functional supervisors, team leads, mixers and production ... Advanced PC computer skills including Microsoft Office Suite. Demonstrated individual leadership ...

Lead, direct and maintain a team of cross functional supervisors, team leads, mixers and production ... Advanced PC computer skills including Microsoft Office Suite. * Demonstrated individual leadership ...

Showing results 41-60

Director Advanced Manufacturing information

What does a director of advanced manufacturing do?

A Director of Advanced Manufacturing oversees the development, implementation, and optimization of cutting-edge manufacturing processes within an organization. This role involves integrating advanced technologies such as automation, robotics, and data analytics to improve production efficiency and product quality. They collaborate with engineering, operations, and leadership teams to drive innovation and maintain competitiveness in the marketplace. Additionally, they are responsible for managing budgets, setting strategic goals, and ensuring compliance with industry standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director of advanced manufacturing, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director of Advanced Manufacturing, you need deep expertise in manufacturing processes, automation, and production management, typically supported by an engineering degree and relevant leadership experience. Familiarity with advanced manufacturing technologies like robotics, ERP/MES systems, Lean Six Sigma methodologies, and industry certifications (e.g., PMP, Six Sigma Black Belt) is highly valuable. Strong strategic thinking, leadership, and communication skills set standout candidates apart by enabling effective team management and cross-functional collaboration. These skills are critical for driving innovation, operational efficiency, and maintaining a competitive edge in a rapidly evolving manufacturing landscape.

How does a director of advanced manufacturing typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement new technologies?

As a Director of Advanced Manufacturing, you will regularly work with engineering, quality, supply chain, and IT teams to evaluate, select, and implement emerging manufacturing technologies. This involves coordinating pilot projects, setting technology adoption roadmaps, and ensuring seamless integration with existing systems and processes. Effective collaboration is crucial for aligning on goals, addressing technical challenges, and training staff on new equipment or software. Strong communication and project management skills are essential to drive innovation while minimizing disruption to production.

What is the difference between Director Advanced Manufacturing vs Manufacturing Manager?

AspectDirector Advanced ManufacturingManufacturing Manager
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, Manufacturing, or related fields; often requires leadership experienceBachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, or related fields; some roles prefer certifications
Work EnvironmentStrategic leadership in manufacturing facilities, overseeing multiple teams and projectsOperational management on the shop floor, supervising production teams
Industry UsageUsed across industries like automotive, aerospace, electronics for high-level oversightCommonly found in manufacturing plants managing daily operations

The Director Advanced Manufacturing focuses on strategic planning, innovation, and overseeing multiple manufacturing operations, while the Manufacturing Manager handles daily production activities and team supervision. Both roles require technical knowledge, but the director's role is more strategic and leadership-oriented.

What are the most commonly searched types of Advanced Manufacturing jobs in Minnesota?

The most popular types of Advanced Manufacturing jobs in Minnesota are:

What job categories do people searching Director Advanced Manufacturing jobs in Minnesota look for?

The top searched job categories for Director Advanced Manufacturing jobs in Minnesota are:

Infographic showing various Director Advanced Manufacturing job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution.

Manufacturing Engineer II

Wilson Tool International

White Bear Lake, MN • On-site

$125K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

SUMMARY
As a Manufacturing Engineer II at Wilson Tool, you will focus on optimizing processes to support safe, efficient, and high-quality production. This role plays a key part in advancing operational excellence through process improvement, performance metrics, and enhanced product flow.
While this is not a formal leadership position, it requires strong leadership qualities, including the ability to influence, mentor, and guide engineering and operations teams. You will help foster a culture of continuous improvement and contribute to the development and implementation of global operational excellence standards.
This position is designed for individuals with the desire and potential to grow into future leadership roles, supporting long-term succession planning and organizational growth.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Applies engineering principles in managing, supporting, and maintaining the production of new and existing products and implementation of design changes and product improvements.
  • Plans, schedules, conducts, and coordinates detailed phases of the engineering project or work as part of a major project.
  • Performs independently on most assignments with instructions as to the general results expected. Documents work and reviews progress and results with manager.
  • Designs and develops production processes, fixturing and equipment.
  • Develop and optimize work instructions and procedures.
  • Drive continuous improvement efforts in the plant in terms of safety, quality, cost and delivery
  • Develop value stream maps, standard work/process sheets, routings, capacity analysis, and line layouts to assist continuous improvement efforts
  • Utilize Lean concepts to eliminate waste, reduce process variation, increase production throughout, and improve material flow and part availability
  • Conduct and participate in Kaizen events and train line workers to drive Lean principles like Kanban and one-piece flow
  • Identifies the root cause of manufacturability issues, implements corrective actions for those relating to design, and communicates findings to other team members or to those responsible for other types of issues.
  • Interfaces with Production, Quality, design engineers, and/or supplier to resolve manufacturing, quality, equipment, product design, and/or component issues so as to meet the company's objectives.
  • Communicates well orally and in writing. Able to present ideas and proposals to all levels of the organization.
  • Participates in design reviews. Communicates with applicable resources to assess manufacturing feasibility and potential issues of product changes and new products.
  • May be assigned to supervise other personnel.
  • Performs other assignments as directed

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Minimum 10 years' experience in an advanced high-mix manufacturing environment and Manufacturing, Industrial, or Mechanical Engineering Degree
  • Must possess strong understanding of Lean principles/methods including Value Stream Maps, 5S, Kaizen, etc.
  • Must be a "hands-on" problem-solver with the ability to multi-task on several projects and maintain high quality and timeliness of deliverables
  • Must have strong communication skills (written and verbal) with the ability to effectively communicate with all areas of the organization
  • 2+ years of experience implementing Lean methodologies and tools such as 5S, Kaizen workshops, Standard Work, and Kanban systems to drive process improvements
  • 1+ year of experience with project management methodologies and leading cross-functional teams to achieve project objectives within established timelines

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE
  • 10+ years of experience as a manufacturing engineer
  • Lean Bronze certification preferred
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office skills, experience with SAP and/or MS Dynamics
  • SolidWorks experience
  • Visual Basics programming
  • CMM programming

ATTRIBUTES
  • Adaptability: Ability to adapt to changing work priorities and environments, demonstrating flexibility and willingness to take on different tasks as directed by the hiring manager.
  • Communication Skills: Effective verbal and written communication skills, enabling clear and concise communication with team members and supervisors.
  • Safety Consciousness: Commitment to adhering to safety protocols and procedures, ensuring a safe working environment for oneself and others.
  • Desire for Learning & Continuous Improvement: Eagerness to learn and develop new skills, with a willingness to participate in training programs and pursue continuous improvement opportunities within the role. Actively seek opportunities to improve efficiency and productivity within assigned tasks, suggesting ideas for process enhancements or workflow optimization.
  • Reliability: Dependability in fulfilling assigned tasks and responsibilities consistently, contributing to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the team.
  • Positive Attitude: A constructive and optimistic approach to challenges and tasks, fostering a supportive and encouraging work environment.
  • Team Player: Ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues, demonstrating respect, empathy, and cooperation in achieving shared goals.
  • Problem-Solving Skills: Capacity to approach issues or obstacles with creativity and resourcefulness, seeking practical solutions to improve processes and outcomes.
  • Professionalism: Conducting oneself with professionalism and integrity, adhering to ethical standards and company policies in all interactions and activities.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands and work environment are representative of those that must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. In addition to continuous sitting and working on a computer, the role may involve continuous reaching forward between shoulder/waist, bending/twisting/rotating, and simple grasping and writing. Occasional exposure to an indoor manufacturing environment, chemicals, and/or fumes may occur. The ability to stand and walk frequently and occasionally lift and carry up to 25 lbs. is required.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Inside; Office and some manufacturing floor.
SALARY
$110,000- $125,000 Annually DOQ
MACHINES, TOOLS, EQUIPMENT, AND WORK AIDS
Working knowledge of manufacturing machines and inspection equipment.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Wilson Tool is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer Women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply.