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External Manufacturing Operations Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Manufacturing Operations Manager is responsible for leading production operations across multiple manufacturing processes, including Molding, Screw Machine, Punch Press, Brazing, Plating, and ...

Support long-range network planning, make-versus-buy analyses, footprint optimization and external manufacturing capability assessments. * Manage escalation and resolution of significant operational ...

Manages and directs all activities related to production operations by performing the following ... external customers as to "as demonstrated" production, future rate loads, and capacity planning.

Automation Engineering works closely with customers, internal technical teams, and external ... As Manufacturing Operations Manager, you will play a critical role within Formic's Automation ...

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External Manufacturing Operations Manager information

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$41.5K

$102.3K

$149K

How much do external manufacturing operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for external manufacturing operations manager in the United States is $102,298.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,500.00 and $128,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an external manufacturing operations manager?

External Manufacturing Operations Managers are professionals responsible for overseeing the production activities conducted by third-party manufacturers or external suppliers. They ensure that outsourced manufacturing processes meet company standards for quality, cost, and delivery timelines. Their role often includes managing supplier relationships, monitoring compliance with regulations, and coordinating between internal teams and external partners to achieve business objectives. Effective External Manufacturing Operations Managers help optimize supply chains and mitigate risks associated with external production.

How does an external manufacturing operations manager typically collaborate with suppliers and internal teams to ensure production goals are met?

An External Manufacturing Operations Manager plays a pivotal role in bridging the gap between the company's internal teams—such as quality assurance, supply chain, and product development—and external manufacturing partners. They regularly communicate with suppliers to align on production schedules, quality standards, and delivery timelines, while also coordinating internally to relay expectations and resolve issues. This role often involves leading cross-functional meetings, negotiating contracts, and implementing continuous improvement initiatives to ensure efficiency and compliance. Strong relationship management and problem-solving skills are essential to successfully navigate the complexities of outsourced manufacturing environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an external manufacturing operations manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as an External Manufacturing Operations Manager, you need a strong background in supply chain management, manufacturing processes, and quality assurance, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in engineering, business, or a related field. Familiarity with ERP systems, Lean/Six Sigma methodologies, and regulatory compliance standards is common, with certifications such as PMP or Six Sigma often valued. Exceptional negotiation, relationship management, and problem-solving skills help foster productive partnerships with external vendors and stakeholders. These competencies are vital for ensuring efficient production, maintaining product quality, and achieving business objectives through robust external collaborations.

What is the difference between External Manufacturing Operations Manager vs Production Supervisor?

AspectExternal Manufacturing Operations ManagerProduction Supervisor
ResponsibilitiesOversees external manufacturing partners, manages supply chain, ensures quality and complianceSupervises in-house production staff, manages daily manufacturing activities
CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering, manufacturing, or related field; experience in supply chain or operationsBachelor's degree or diploma; experience in manufacturing or production
Work EnvironmentOffice-based with site visits to external facilitiesFactory or plant floor
Industry UsageCommon in pharmaceutical, biotech, and consumer goods industriesWidely used across manufacturing sectors

The External Manufacturing Operations Manager focuses on managing external partners and supply chains, ensuring quality and compliance across multiple sites. In contrast, the Production Supervisor oversees daily in-house manufacturing activities. Both roles require related credentials and are integral to manufacturing operations, but their scope and work environment differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to External Manufacturing Operations Manager jobs?

For External Manufacturing Operations Manager jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various External Manufacturing Operations Manager job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $102,298 per year, or $49.2 per hour.

Manufacturing Operations Manager

Grand Island, NY • On-site

Thermo Fisher Scientific
Biotechnology Research and Development • 10K+ employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Thermo Fisher Scientific rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 430 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Work Schedule
First Shift (Days)
Environmental Conditions
Adherence to all Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) Safety Standards, Office, Some degree of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) required (safety glasses, gowning, gloves, lab coat, ear plugs etc.)
Job Description
Manufacturing Operations Manager
Schedule: Monday-Friday, 7:30 AM-4:30 PM, with occasional additional hours based on project or business needs.
Location: Grand Island, NY - Relocation assistance is not available for this position.
Applicants: must be legally authorized to work in the United States without current or future sponsorship.
Pre-Employment Requirements: Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check and pre-employment drug screening, in accordance with applicable laws and company policies.
Make an Impact. Lead a Team. Advance Science.
At Thermo Fisher Scientific, every role has purpose. When you join our team, you'll help deliver products that enable scientists, healthcare providers, and researchers around the world to make our world healthier, cleaner and safer.
As our Manufacturing Operations Manager, you'll lead a high-performing manufacturing team responsible for producing critical cell culture media used in life-saving therapies and scientific research. You'll have the opportunity to drive operational excellence, develop talented colleagues, and influence continuous improvement initiatives while working in a collaborative, innovative manufacturing environment.
If you're a passionate manufacturing leader who enjoys coaching teams, solving complex challenges, and making a measurable impact, we'd love to hear from you.
What You'll Do
As the Manufacturing Operations Manager, you will provide both strategic leadership and daily operational direction for manufacturing and packaging operations while ensuring the highest standards of safety, quality, delivery, and compliance.
Your responsibilities will include:
  • Lead and develop a high-performing manufacturing team, fostering a culture of accountability, engagement, and continuous learning.
  • Oversee daily manufacturing operations to safely deliver production schedules while meeting customer commitments.
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean Manufacturing and Operational Excellence principles to improve productivity, quality, and efficiency.
  • Ensure compliance with cGMP, quality systems, environmental, health and safety, and regulatory requirements.
  • Partner with Quality, Engineering, Supply Chain, Maintenance, and other cross-functional teams to achieve business objectives.
  • Lead production planning, staffing, scheduling, and resource allocation to maximize operational performance.
  • Support new product introductions, technology transfers, and process improvements.
  • Monitor key performance indicators including Safety, Quality, Delivery, Cost, and Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), implementing corrective actions when needed.
  • Manage departmental budgets while identifying opportunities for cost savings and operational efficiencies.
  • Serve as a primary contact during customer audits and regulatory inspections.
  • Coach, mentor, and develop future leaders through performance management, training, and career development.

What You'll Bring
Minimum Qualifications
Education:
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Life Sciences, Operations Management, or a related discipline.
  • Lean, Six Sigma, APICS, or other professional certifications are a plus.

Experience:
  • 6+ years of manufacturing operations experience in a regulated environment (pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device, food, chemical, or similar industries).
  • 3+ years leading and developing manufacturing teams.
  • Experience implementing Lean Manufacturing, Operational Excellence, or continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Experience working within quality management systems and regulated manufacturing environments.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
We're looking for a leader who can inspire teams while driving operational results. Successful candidates will demonstrate:
  • Strong knowledge of cGMP and regulatory manufacturing requirements.
  • Experience leading safety-first manufacturing operations.
  • Proven ability to improve productivity, quality, and operational performance.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a data-driven mindset.
  • Experience with ERP systems and manufacturing execution systems.
  • Excellent communication and relationship-building skills across all levels of the organization.
  • Financial and budget management experience.
  • Ability to prioritize multiple initiatives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
  • Strong coaching, conflict resolution, and employee development skills.
  • Commitment to Thermo Fisher Scientific's values of Integrity, Intensity, Innovation, and Involvement.

Work Environment
This position works in a regulated manufacturing environment supporting the production of cell culture media.The role requires:
  • Standing and walking throughout the shift.
  • Ability to lift up to 40 pounds without assistance.
  • Wearing required personal protective equipment (PPE), including steel-toe footwear, safety glasses, gloves, respirators, and other required protective equipment.
  • Working around manufacturing equipment, powders, chemicals, biological materials, and occasional elevated noise levels.
  • Following all GMP and safety procedures.
  • Occasional shift or on-call support based on business needs.

Why Join Thermo Fisher Scientific?
When you join Thermo Fisher Scientific, you're joining more than a manufacturing team-you become part of a global organization whose products support groundbreaking scientific discoveries, improve patient outcomes, and help solve some of the world's toughest challenges.
Here, you'll find:
  • Meaningful work that makes a global impact
  • Opportunities for career growth and advancement
  • A collaborative, team-oriented culture
  • Industry-leading training and development
  • Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits
  • A workplace where your ideas and leadership can make a difference every day

Compensation and Benefits
The salary range estimated for this position based in New York is $93,800.00-$130,000.00.
This position may also be eligible to receive a variable annual bonus based on company, team, and/or individual performance results in accordance with company policy. We offer a comprehensive Total Rewards package that our U.S. colleagues and their families can count on, which includes:
  • A choice of national medical and dental plans, and a national vision plan, including health incentive programs
  • Employee assistance and family support programs, including commuter benefits and tuition reimbursement
  • At least 120 hours paid time off (PTO), 10 paid holidays annually, paid parental leave (3 weeks for bonding and 8 weeks for caregiver leave), accident and life insurance, and short- and long-term disability in accordance with company policy
  • Retirement and savings programs, such as our competitive 401(k) U.S. retirement savings plan
  • Employees' Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) offers eligible colleagues the opportunity to purchase company stock at a discount

For more information on our benefits, please visit: https://jobs.thermofisher.com/global/en/total-rewards

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