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Vice President Manufacturing Operations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

With more ocean miles and real-world operational experience than any USV manufacturer or operator ... THE POSITION Saildrone is seeking a Vice President, Manufacturing to join our executive leadership ...

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Vice President Manufacturing Operations information

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$68.5K

$155.8K

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How much do vice president manufacturing operations jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for vice president manufacturing operations in the United States is $155,780.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $115,500.00 and $185,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Vice President of Manufacturing Operations, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Vice President of Manufacturing Operations, you need deep expertise in production management, process optimization, and supply chain logistics, often backed by an engineering or business degree and years of leadership experience. Familiarity with ERP systems, lean manufacturing methodologies, and quality management certifications like Six Sigma are highly valuable. Strong leadership, strategic thinking, and effective communication skills help drive teams and foster cross-departmental collaboration. Mastering these skills ensures operational efficiency, product quality, and alignment with organizational goals in a competitive manufacturing environment.

What does a Vice President of Manufacturing Operations do?

A Vice President of Manufacturing Operations oversees the entire production process within a company, ensuring that manufacturing runs efficiently, safely, and meets quality standards. This role involves strategic planning, managing budgets, leading teams, optimizing processes, and implementing new technologies or procedures. The VP collaborates with other executives to align manufacturing goals with overall company objectives and often plays a key role in supply chain management. Additionally, they are responsible for maintaining compliance with industry regulations and driving continuous improvement initiatives.

What is the difference between Vice President Manufacturing Operations vs Director of Manufacturing?

AspectVice President Manufacturing OperationsDirector of Manufacturing
ResponsibilitiesOversees multiple manufacturing facilities, develops strategic goals, manages senior leadershipManages daily manufacturing activities, implements policies, supervises managers
Required CredentialsBachelor's/Master's in Engineering, Operations, or related; extensive experienceBachelor's in Engineering or related; significant industry experience
Work EnvironmentCorporate headquarters, multiple plants, strategic planningManufacturing plants, operational oversight
Industry UsageCommon in large manufacturing companiesFound across various manufacturing sectors

The Vice President Manufacturing Operations focuses on strategic leadership and overseeing multiple facilities, while the Director of Manufacturing handles daily operations and team supervision. Both roles require relevant engineering or operations credentials and are vital in manufacturing organizations, but they differ mainly in scope and seniority.

What are some common challenges faced by a Vice President of Manufacturing Operations, and how can candidates prepare to address them?

A Vice President of Manufacturing Operations often encounters challenges such as optimizing production efficiency, managing supply chain disruptions, and ensuring quality standards while maintaining cost controls. Candidates can prepare by gaining experience in lean manufacturing principles, developing strong cross-functional communication skills, and staying updated on industry technologies. Proactive leadership and adaptability are essential, as VPs regularly collaborate with teams in engineering, procurement, and logistics to drive operational improvements and respond to market demands.
What cities are hiring for Vice President Manufacturing Operations jobs? Cities with the most Vice President Manufacturing Operations job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Manufacturing Operations jobs? The most popular types of Manufacturing Operations jobs are:
What states have the most Vice President Manufacturing Operations jobs? States with the most job openings for Vice President Manufacturing Operations jobs include:

Vice President- Manufacturing Operations

Keller Executive Search

New Haven, CT • On-site

$250K - $300K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

About Our Client

Our client is a global leader in precision-engineered components and systems serving the aerospace, defense, and advanced industrial sectors. With a longstanding heritage of manufacturing excellence, the company has built a strong reputation for quality, reliability, and innovation.

Privately held and values-driven, the organization operates multiple manufacturing and engineering facilities worldwide, supporting leading OEMs and tier-one suppliers on some of the industry's most advanced programs. Known for operational discipline and long-term partnerships, it combines the stability of a mature enterprise with the agility of a modern, high-growth manufacturer.

The Opportunity

We are looking for a Vice President- Manufacturing Operations to join the leadership team and assume responsibility for multiple operating divisions within the company's aerospace and defense portfolio.

This position offers exceptional growth potential for an accomplished manufacturing executive with a proven record of leading complex, multi-site operations. This is an onsite role with regular travel required between manufacturing sites.

Key ResponsibilitiesOperational Leadership
  • Full P&L accountability for assigned business units, ensuring financial performance, cost efficiency, and margin optimization
  • Drive operational excellence and continuous improvement across multiple manufacturing sites
  • Lead initiatives in production performance, supply chain management, and process optimization
  • Ensure compliance with industry quality standards and regulatory requirements
Strategic Growth
  • Develop and execute business strategies that align with enterprise objectives and support sustainable growth
  • Identify opportunities for market expansion, new customer engagement, and strategic partnerships
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams in engineering, sales, and program management to accelerate innovation and delivery
People Leadership
  • Build and develop high-performing teams across multiple locations
  • Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and servant leadership
  • Promote talent development, succession readiness, and organizational capability building
Financial Stewardship
  • Deliver consistent, data-driven performance against ambitious growth targets
  • Maintain rigorous financial oversight and forecasting accuracy
  • Present operational results and strategic insights to the executive team with clarity and impact

Requirements

Education:

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering (required)
  • Advanced business education (MBA or equivalent) preferred

Industry Experience:

  • Aerospace or defense manufacturing background required
  • Deep understanding of precision machining, component manufacturing, or engineered systems
  • Demonstrated success in highly regulated, quality-driven production environments
  • Experience managing multi-site operations and diverse product portfolios

Leadership Experience:

  • Minimum 20 years of progressive leadership in manufacturing operations
  • Proven success in senior operational or general management roles with full P&L responsibility

Technical & Business Acumen:

  • Strong financial and analytical skills with a strategic mindset
  • Expertise in Lean, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies
  • Ability to translate operational metrics into strategic decisions

Benefits

  • Competitive base salary commensurate with experience (range: $250,000-$300,000)
  • Annual performance bonus
  • Long-term incentive or equity participation
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage
  • 401(k)
  • Paid time off, family leave, and relocation support

Keller is a recruitment agency that provides services to clients ranging from startups and non profits to multinational corporations. Keller emphasizes ethical search processes, attentive candidate care, and leadership placements that support long-term client outcomes.

To learn more about the firm and about our candidate services - please visit

Executive Recruiters Bridgeport and New Haven: Headhunters in Connecticut

Equal Employment Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Policy 

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are Equal Opportunity Employers. For all positions, whether with Keller Executive Search or our clients, qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, skin color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other legally protected status. 

Commitment to Diversity: Keller Executive Search and its clients are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment where all individuals are valued and respected. 

Reasonable Accommodations: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities and pregnant individuals. We engage in an interactive process to determine effective, reasonable accommodations.  

Compensation Information: For client positions, compensation information is available in the job post. If not provided, it will be shared during the interview process in accordance with applicable laws. When required by law, salary ranges will be included in job postings. Actual salary may depend on skills, experience, and comparison to current employees in similar roles. Salary ranges may vary based on role and location. 

Compliance with Laws: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients comply with federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This policy applies to all employment terms and conditions, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training. 

Workplace Harassment: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients expressly prohibit any form of workplace harassment based on race, skin color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. 

E-Verify Participation: Keller Executive Search and/or our clients may participate in E-Verify. Information about E-Verify participation will be provided during the application process where applicable. 

Privacy and Pay Equity: 

  • California Residents: For more information about the categories of personal information we collect for recruiting and employment purposes, please review our Privacy Policy at www.kellerexecutivesearch.com. 
  • Colorado, Nevada, New York City, California, and Washington Residents: Compensation information is available in the job post or will be provided during the interview process if not initially available. 
  • Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to pay equity and conduct periodic pay equity analyses in accordance with applicable laws. 

State-Specific Information: 

  • Rhode Island: We do not request or require salary history from applicants. 
  • Connecticut: We provide wage range information upon request or before discussing compensation. 
  • New Jersey: We do not inquire about salary history unless voluntarily disclosed. 

Veteran Status: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients provide equal employment opportunities to veterans and comply with applicable state laws regarding veteran preference in employment. If you are a veteran, please inform us during the application process. 

Use of Artificial Intelligence in Recruitment 

Keller Executive Search and our clients may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist in the recruitment and candidate evaluation process. These tools are used exclusively to support human decision-making by helping to review and assess candidate qualifications and materials. AI is never used to automatically reject, disqualify, or make final hiring decisions about candidates. All AI-assisted evaluations are reviewed by experienced recruitment professionals, and all hiring decisions are made by qualified human recruiters. Our use of AI is designed to enhance fairness, consistency, and efficiency while maintaining our commitment to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination principles. 

Genetic Information: In accordance with federal and state laws, both Keller Executive Search and our clients do not discriminate based on genetic information. We do not request or require genetic information from applicants or employees, except as permitted by law. 

Local Laws: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients comply with all applicable local laws and ordinances regarding employment practices in the areas where we operate. 

Note: This job posting may be for a position with Keller Executive Search or one of our clients. The specific employer will be identified during the application and interview process. Employment laws and requirements may vary depending on the employer and location.