VP of Operations - Aerospace & Defense 3D Printing

Vice President of Operations - Lead Manufacturing Excellence in Aerospace-Grade 3D Composites!

Broomfield, CO Onsite

Opportunity Summary

An emerging startup specializing in advanced composites and additive manufacturing is expanding its high-tech facility to meet increasing demand across aerospace and defense markets. As this growth accelerates, we're hiring a Vice President of Operations to take ownership of production systems, post-processing workflows, and integrated factory operations. This is a unique opportunity to lead the scale-up of cutting-edge hardware manufacturing capabilities and shape the future of aerospace-grade parts fabrication using next-generation materials and digital manufacturing techniques. The ideal candidate brings a background in manufacturing leadership and thrives in hands-on, fast-paced environments.

About Us

We're reimagining how critical aerospace structures are manufactured using an innovative composite 3D printing process. Our proprietary platform enables the efficient production of thermally resilient, lightweight parts by minimizing labor, tooling, and material waste. Built around a data-driven smart factory model, our system delivers full visibility and adaptive control across production lines. Our facility supports applications ranging from reentry vehicles and hypersonic platforms to satellite and propulsion systems-leveraging a broad portfolio of aerospace-qualified resins and fillers including epoxy, phenolics, silicon carbide, and carbon-carbon composites.

Job Duties

Lead end-to-end operations for composite manufacturing, including production, post-processing, inspection, and delivery

Design scalable systems that increase throughput and reduce cycle time across the smart factory

Translate new materials and part designs from R&D into efficient, repeatable production processes

Direct the installation and optimization of post-processing tools, fixtures, and hardware

Build and oversee multidisciplinary teams supporting manufacturing, infrastructure, and safety

Identify inefficiencies using operational data and implement systems-based performance improvements

Partner with engineering, software, and automation teams to implement factory-wide digital solutions

Ensure operational compliance with industry standards, including AS9100, ITAR, and OSHA/EHS

Contribute to factory expansion plans, production line rollouts, and daily leadership of shop floor activities

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, Manufacturing Engineering, or similar technical field

6+ years of experience in factory operations, production engineering, or hardware manufacturing

Working knowledge of composite fabrication or other complex, high-performance materials

Experience scaling production systems and deploying new manufacturing lines

Exposure to post-processing methods such as machining, quality inspection, or thermal treatments

Familiarity with ERP or MRP systems and data-informed decision-making

Proven ability to manage cross-functional technical teams in dynamic, hands-on environments

Preferred Experience

10+ years in advanced manufacturing, hardware production, or operational leadership

Hands-on experience with additive manufacturing processes (composite or metal)

Background in building or operating smart factories with integrated automation and controls

Familiarity with thermal protection systems, propulsion hardware, or structural aerospace components

Knowledge of facility infrastructure including power, gas, and safety compliance systems

Strength in Excel or similar tools for factory modeling and operational analytics

Deep understanding of aerospace-grade composites such as phenolics, carbon-carbon, or ceramic matrices

Why Join Us

Build from the ground up alongside a visionary leadership team

Take ownership of a novel manufacturing platform reshaping aerospace production

Join a mission-driven team working on critical space and defense applications

Contribute to a modern, automated factory environment with real impact

High-growth equity opportunity at the early stage of scale

Career advancement with leadership and strategic influence

Competitive salary + equity options

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage

Flexible, high-impact work environment

Compensation Details

$130,000 - $200,000