Manufacturing Manager - Defense - Franklin, MA

The Manufacturing Engineering Manager will serve as the technical authority for manufacturing operations, ensuring production methods consistently achieve design intent while supporting business objectives related to safety, quality, delivery, cost, and lead time.

The successful candidate will lead and develop a team of manufacturing engineers, oversee process innovation, implement digital manufacturing technologies, and drive operational improvements across a complex production environment.

• Lead, mentor, and develop the manufacturing engineering team to achieve business and technical objectives.
• Drive implementation of advanced manufacturing technologies, automation, and digital manufacturing initiatives.
• Oversee process improvements, capacity planning, engineering resources, and departmental budgets.
• Support new product introductions, manufacturing changes, and cross-functional programme execution.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental, and product quality requirements while promoting a Right First Time culture.

MPI does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, or based on an individual's status in any group or class protected by applicable federal, state or local law. MPI encourages applications from minorities, women, the disabled, protected veterans and all other qualified applicants.

Lead advanced 5-axis machining and lights-out manufacturing initiatives.Drive digital transformation and shape engineering strategy.

The ideal candidate will be a proven manufacturing engineering leader with experience managing complex production environments and delivering measurable operational improvements. They will possess strong technical expertise in advanced manufacturing processes, combined with the ability to lead teams, engage stakeholders, and support strategic business initiatives.

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering with significant manufacturing engineering experience.
• Demonstrated leadership experience managing engineering teams and major manufacturing projects.
• Background in advanced machining, complex assemblies, welding, or high-mix, low-volume manufacturing.
• Experience implementing digital manufacturing solutions and driving continuous improvement initiatives.
• Eligible to obtain and maintain a government security clearance and authorised to work in the United States.

Our client is a recognized engineering and manufacturing organization serving highly regulated industries where precision, quality, and reliability are critical. They operate a modern manufacturing environment with significant investment in advanced machining technologies, automation, and continuous improvement initiatives.

The business is committed to innovation and operational excellence, fostering a culture focused on safety, technical leadership, and employee development. With a strong project pipeline and ongoing investment in manufacturing capabilities, they offer an opportunity to make a measurable impact on both strategic initiatives and day-to-day operations.

This opportunity offers the chance to join a growing and technically advanced manufacturing organization where you can influence strategy, lead transformational projects, and develop high-performing engineering teams. The role provides exposure to cutting-edge manufacturing technologies and the opportunity to make a lasting impact on operational performance.

• Leadership position with significant influence on manufacturing strategy.
• Exposure to advanced automation, digital manufacturing, and 5-axis machining technologies.
• Competitive compensation package and long-term career development opportunities.