Vice President of Manufacturing

Build the Operating Engine of a High-Growth Precision Manufacturer

Atlas Gunworks manufactures the finest double stack 1911 pistols and parts in the world. Pistols are engineered, machined, hand finished and coated in the Shelburne, Vermont facility.

Atlas’ production process includes a unique combination of sophisticated CNC machining, hand fitting and finishing. With ~30% year-over-year growth, Atlas continues to add factory capacity in Vermont and elsewhere. We are seeking a Vice President of Manufacturing to lead our growing team.

Reporting to the President, the Vice President of Manufacturing is the execution leader responsible for manufacturing performance, scalability, and operational excellence.

You will translate business objectives into efficient, repeatable, and high-performing manufacturing systems, ensuring Atlas can scale production without compromising quality, craftsmanship, or brand reputation.

You will lead all aspects of manufacturing operations including CNC machining, assembly, finishing, quality, inventory, and shipping.

• Develop continuous improvement practices to ensure production meets demand while maintaining premium quality standards

• Build and implement scalable standard operating procedures (SOPs) across all production functions
• Create a structured, data-driven manufacturing environment

• Map end-to-end production workflows and eliminate bottlenecks
• Implement lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement initiatives
• Lead root cause analysis and corrective/preventive actions

• Own all operational KPIs including:
• Throughput & capacity utilization
• Manufacturing costs
• Cycle time & lead time
• Defect rates & quality metrics
• Build dashboards and drive accountability across the organization
• Build and develop a strong manufacturing leadership team
• Establish a culture of accountability, ownership, and performance

• Forecast labor, equipment, tooling, and facility needs to support growth
• Partner with leadership to align production with demand and product roadmap
• Lead facility planning and capital investments

• SOPs are fully implemented across all manufacturing areas
• Clear metrics and accountability systems are embedded
• Throughput and production predictability is improved
• New equipment for a 5,000-sf factory expansion is successfully commissioned

• 10+ years of progressive manufacturing/operations leadership experience
• Proven success scaling manufacturing in a high-growth environment
• Deep experience in precision machining, complex assemblies, or high-performance products

Strong background in:

• Process mapping
• Data-driven mindset with experience building and managing KPIs
• Demonstrated ability to build teams and install performance management systems
• Hands‑on leadership style. You’re comfortable on the shop floor solving problems in real time

• Experience in firearms, defense, or regulated manufacturing
• Experience in high‑mix, low‑volume production environments

• High-growth environment with real opportunity to build and scale
• Premium product with a reputation for precision and performance
• Hands‑on leadership team committed to investing in operations
• Opportunity to build the manufacturing engine of a category‑leading company

This is a role for a builder. If you’re energized by the challenge of building systems from the ground up, coaching a talented and dedicated team, and scaling a manufacturing organization without sacrificing quality, this is your opportunity.

Atlas Gunworks has partnered with Dan Lyons from The Richards Group to guide this important search.

To apply , send your resume and cover letter to , or reach out to Dan directly at with any questions. Applications, including a resume and cover letter, will be accepted until we have a strong candidate slate.

Atlas Gunworks is an equal opportunity employer. They celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.