Director of Manufacturing

We're seeking a Director of Manufacturing in Augusta, Maine to lead manufacturing operations, supply chain operations, production management, manufacturing engineering, and continuous improvement for a growing employee-owned precision manufacturer.

In this senior leadership role, you'll build scalable systems, develop high-performing teams, and partner closely with company leadership to drive operational excellence and sustainable growth. This is a rare opportunity to take ownership of a critical function, develop the next generation of skilled tradespeople, and create a lasting impact on both the organization and the community.

We know the right leader may not live in Maine today. To support a successful transition, this company offers temporary housing assistance for qualified candidates who relocate to the Augusta area, giving you time to get settled and focused on making an impact from day one.

This isn't a role where you simply maintain existing systems.

You'll have the opportunity to:

• Own manufacturing operations from scheduling and cost management.
• Lead and develop a team of machinists, operators, engineers, technicians, and supply chain professionals.
• Build scalable systems that support significant future growth.
• Create training, apprenticeship, and workforce development programs that strengthen our talent pipeline.
• Partner directly with company leadership to drive strategic growth initiatives.
• Influence capital investments, equipment acquisitions, and operational strategy.
• Leave a lasting mark on an organization positioned for expansion.

You are equally comfortable reviewing KPIs in the boardroom and troubleshooting challenges on the shop floor.

You bring:

• Extensive experience in precision machining and manufacturing operations.
• Deep knowledge of CNC milling, turning, tooling, fixturing, inspection, and process optimization.
• Experience scaling manufacturing organizations while maintaining quality and culture.
• Strong financial and operational business judgment.
• Proven ability to recruit, develop, and retain top manufacturing talent.
• Success implementing continuous improvement and Lean manufacturing principles.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and team-building skills.

At this company, character matters as much as capability.

They are looking for someone who is:

• Hands-On & Gritty – Leads from the floor, not from behind a desk.
• Data-Driven – Uses metrics and facts to drive decisions and accountability.
• Calm Under Pressure – Brings clarity and confidence when challenges arise.
• Authentic & Honest – Builds trust through transparency and direct communication.
• Driven to Build – Energized by growth, improvement, and creating what's next.

• 10+ years of precision manufacturing experience
• 5+ years in a senior manufacturing leadership role
• Proven track record scaling manufacturing operations
• Expertise in CNC machining and related processes
• Experience building and leading training, apprenticeship, or workforce development programs
• Strong operational and financial acumen
• Degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Management, or related field preferred (or equivalent industry experience)
• Familiarity with AS9100, ISO 9001, and CMMC is a plus
• Willingness to relocate to the Augusta, Maine area

Join a growing employee-owned company with ambitious goals and a leadership team committed to investing in people. This is one of the most important leadership positions in the organization, offering:

• Temporary housing support for relocating candidates
• Competitive compensation starting at $100,000 annually
• Benefits included
• Significant influence and decision-making authority
• Long-term growth opportunities
• A culture centered on craftsmanship, integrity, and respect
• The opportunity to build your career in the beautiful Augusta, Maine region

This Director of Manufacturing role may also align with professionals currently serving as Manufacturing Manager, Plant Manager, Operations Director, Director of Operations, Production Director, Manufacturing Operations Leader, or VP of Manufacturing.

Our client in Augusta, Maine, is looking for a hands-on manufacturing leader who wants more than just a job; they’re looking for someone who wants to build something meaningful. If you're a manufacturing leader who thrives on solving complex challenges, developing people, and scaling operations, we'd love to hear from you.

The salary range for this role reflects the minimum and maximum compensation for the role. Offers are typically made between the range minimum and the range midpoint. Actual compensation will be determined based on job-related skills, experience, and expertise, as evaluated during the interview process. Compensation may also vary based on where a role is performed.