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Manufacturing Strategy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SAB

Vice President Manufacturing

Sioux Falls, SD · On-site

$140 - $180/hr

The VP Manufacturing will provide strategic, operational, and technical leadership for the company's manufacturing activities supporting late-stage clinical development, commercial readiness, and ...

SAB

Vice President Manufacturing

Sioux Falls, SD · Remote

The VP Manufacturing will provide strategic, operational, and technical leadership for the company's manufacturing activities supporting late-stage clinical development, commercial readiness, and ...

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Manufacturing Strategy information

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$30.5K

$97.6K

$153.5K

How much do manufacturing strategy jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for manufacturing strategy in the United States is $97,556.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,000.00 and $120,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is manufacturing strategy?

Manufacturing strategy refers to the long-term plan and set of decisions that guide a company's manufacturing operations to align with overall business objectives. It involves selecting the right technologies, processes, and resources to maximize efficiency, quality, and responsiveness to market demands. A well-defined manufacturing strategy helps organizations achieve competitive advantage by optimizing production costs, improving product quality, and adapting to changing customer needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in manufacturing strategy?

To excel in Manufacturing Strategy, you need strong analytical skills, a background in industrial engineering or business, and experience in process optimization and supply chain management. Familiarity with ERP systems, Lean Six Sigma methodologies, and data analytics tools is highly valuable. Strategic thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for driving change and aligning cross-functional teams. These competencies enable professionals to develop and implement strategies that improve efficiency, reduce costs, and maintain a competitive edge in manufacturing operations.

How does a manufacturing strategy professional typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive process improvements?

A Manufacturing Strategy professional frequently works closely with teams in engineering, operations, supply chain, and quality management to identify areas for process optimization and cost savings. This collaboration often involves leading workshops, facilitating data-driven discussions, and aligning diverse stakeholders around shared goals. The role requires strong communication and project management skills to ensure that strategic initiatives are implemented effectively and deliver measurable results. By bridging gaps between departments, Manufacturing Strategy professionals help create cohesive plans that support the company's long-term manufacturing objectives.

What is the difference between Manufacturing Strategy vs Manufacturing Engineer?

AspectManufacturing StrategyManufacturing Engineer
Primary FocusDeveloping long-term manufacturing plans and aligning production with business goalsDesigning, implementing, and improving manufacturing processes
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering, business, or related field; often an MBA or strategic planning experienceBachelor's degree in mechanical, industrial, or manufacturing engineering
Work EnvironmentStrategic planning meetings, cross-department collaboration, executive settingsFactory floors, process design labs, technical project environments
Industry UsageUsed by manufacturing managers, supply chain planners, and executivesUsed by manufacturing engineers, process engineers, and production teams

Manufacturing Strategy focuses on high-level planning and aligning manufacturing operations with business objectives, while Manufacturing Engineers are hands-on professionals who design and optimize manufacturing processes. Both roles are essential but serve different functions within the manufacturing industry.

What are the different types of manufacturing strategies?

Manufacturing strategy involves approaches such as make-to-stock, make-to-order, assemble-to-order, and engineer-to-order, each suited to different production and customer needs. These strategies help manufacturing professionals optimize processes, inventory, and lead times based on product complexity and demand variability.
More about Manufacturing Strategy jobs

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

The top searched job categories for Manufacturing Strategy jobs are:

Manufacturing Strategy jobs near you
Infographic showing various Manufacturing Strategy job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,556 per year, or $46.9 per hour.

Manufacturing Strategy Engineer

Winston Salem, NC • On-site

PennEngineering
See more jobs at PennEngineeringexternal

$62K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Position Summary
The Manufacturing Strategy Engineer will serve as the primary owner of PennEngineering's new CNC machine, leading programming, setup, operation, process development, and performance optimization. This role will work closely with the machine manufacturer to maximize equipment capabilities, optimize tooling and programming strategies, and identify the most suitable products and processes for the platform.
The successful candidate will act as the technical lead for the new CNC equipment, using data-driven analysis to evaluate performance, drive continuous improvement, manage projects, and support future equipment investment decisions. This highly autonomous role requires strong CNC programming expertise, project management skills, and the ability to communicate complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences while helping shape PennEngineering's future manufacturing strategy.
Primary Responsibilities
CNC Equipment Ownership & Development
  • Program, set up, operate, troubleshoot, and optimize the CNC machine platform.
  • Develop and maintain CNC programs, tooling strategies, and machining processes to maximize productivity, quality, and machine utilization.
  • Partner directly with the CNC equipment representatives to improve machine performance, programming, tooling layouts, and process capabilities.
  • Evaluate equipment performance against production requirements, identify improvement opportunities, and provide recommendations regarding long-term utilization, capacity expansion, replacement strategies, and future equipment investments.

CNC Programming & Process Development
  • Develop, optimize, and maintain CNC programs for EDM, turning, and multi-axis machining operations.
  • Select tooling, fixturing, cutting parameters, and machining strategies to maximize throughput and quality.
  • Create and maintain controlled CNC program libraries and machining documentation.
  • Product Planning & Capacity Strategy
  • Evaluate product suitability, manufacturability, and equipment compatibility for existing and new products.
  • Conduct capacity analyses to assess machine utilization, throughput potential, and future production requirements.
  • Recommend product assignments and manufacturing strategies to maximize equipment effectiveness.

Project Management & Continuous Improvement
  • Lead projects focused on improving manufacturing efficiency, machine utilization, throughput, and quality.
  • Apply Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies to eliminate waste and improve performance.
  • Track project progress and communicate results to stakeholders.

Equipment Evaluation & Manufacturing Strategy
  • Establish performance metrics and reporting mechanisms to evaluate machine effectiveness.
  • Analyze machine performance during the initial implementation period and develop recommendations regarding long-term equipment strategy.
  • After the initial evaluation period, provide leadership with recommendations regarding:
  • Long-term retention of the CNC Equipment
  • Product lines best suited for the equipment
  • Future capacity expansion opportunities
  • Alternative equipment solutions if replacement is recommended

Training & Leadership
  • Develop standardized operating procedures and work instructions.
  • Train operators and production personnel on equipment operation, setup, quality requirements, and best practices.
  • Partner with Maintenance to establish preventive maintenance standards and equipment care procedures.

Communication & Reporting
  • Develop reports and presentations that communicate machine performance, productivity improvements, project status, and strategic recommendations.
  • Translate complex technical data into actionable information for leadership and utilize Microsoft Office tools to analyze and present findings.

Qualifications
Required
  • Bachelor's or Associate's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field - or equivalent hands-on experience.
  • 3+ years of experience in CNC machining operations, programming, or manufacturing engineering.
  • Proficiency in CNC programming (G-code/M-code) and at least one CAM software package
  • Demonstrated ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, and technical specifications.
  • Experience with data collection and analysis using Excel, ERP systems, or manufacturing dashboards.
  • Strong problem-solving skills with experience conducting root cause analysis and implementing permanent corrective actions.

Preferred
  • Experience with multi-axis CNC machining (4-axis, 5-axis, Swiss-style turning).
  • Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing / Six Sigma principles; Green Belt certification a plus
  • Knowledge of SPC (Statistical Process Control) and quality management systems (ISO 9001, AS9100, IATF 16949)
  • Experience with FMEA, Control Plans, and PPAP documentation
  • Background in manufacturing cost estimating or industrial engineering

Working Conditions
  • Primary work environment is a manufacturing facility with regular exposure to machine shop conditions.
  • PPE including safety glasses, hearing protection and non-slip footwear required.
  • Ability to stand for extended periods and occasionally lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Approximately 20% travel required for machine runoffs, vendor visits, equipment evaluations, training, and technical support activities.
  • Occasional off-shift support may be required during machine installations, production launches, or critical projects/ training.

Education/Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering Technology (or equivalent work experience).
  • Minimum of three years' of experience in a high speed production environment that is focused on machining fundamental metals of varying shapes and sizes.
  • Must be proficient with computer-aided drafting software packages such as Pro/Engineer and Solidworks.

PennEngineering is committed to Diversity, Equity and Belonging, and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences. We are an equal opportunity employer and prohibit discrimination and harassment based on race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, disability, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. We lift up voices and opinions by creating a respectful work environment where difference is valued, and we are doing our part to build towards a greater society where diverse points of view are celebrated.

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