
NPI Operations Program Manager
Job description
NPI Operations Program Manager at Form Labs.
About the role
Form Labs is seeking an experienced NPI Operations Program Manager to oversee and optimize our manufacturing processes and new product introduction activities. In this role, you will be responsible for coordinating efforts across multiple teams to ensure that our innovative 3D printing solutions are developed, launched, and scaled efficiently. Your work will involve managing complex projects, identifying operational risks, and implementing strategies to streamline production and supply chain activities. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the growth of a leading company in the additive manufacturing industry, supporting cutting-edge product development and ensuring timely delivery to customers. You will be a key driver in aligning manufacturing capabilities with product development goals, maintaining high standards of quality, and fostering collaboration among internal teams and external suppliers.
Key facts
What you'll do
- Lead and coordinate cross-functional teams, including supply chain, manufacturing engineering, design, and logistics, to meet program milestones and resolve significant operational challenges.
- Proactively identify potential risks and obstacles in the product development and manufacturing process, prioritize issues based on impact, and guide stakeholders in making informed decisions to keep projects on schedule.
- Develop and deliver regular program updates to senior leadership, highlighting progress, key risks, and mitigation strategies to ensure transparency and alignment across departments.
- Oversee the planning and execution of production ramp-ups, ensuring that manufacturing timelines are met within budget constraints while maintaining strict adherence to product quality and technical specifications.
- Design and implement scalable frameworks for production readiness, including establishing processes, tools, and metrics that facilitate efficient product launches and ongoing manufacturing operations.
- Balance immediate operational needs with strategic long-term planning, including capacity planning, process improvements, and risk mitigation to support future growth.
- Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers, ensuring clear communication, reliable delivery, and quality standards are upheld throughout the supply chain.
- Collaborate with product development teams to align manufacturing capabilities with upcoming product features and innovations, ensuring seamless transition from design to production.
- Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) related to production efficiency, quality, and supply chain reliability, using data to inform continuous improvement initiatives.
- Support the development of contingency plans to address potential supply chain disruptions, quality issues, or other operational risks that could impact product launches.
- Assist in the onboarding and integration of new suppliers and manufacturing partners, ensuring they meet company standards and project requirements.
- Contribute to the development of company-wide strategies for manufacturing scalability, cost reduction, and process optimization to maintain competitive advantage.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, preferably in Mechanical, Electrical, or Computer Science.
- Willingness to travel domestically and internationally approximately 10-20% of the time to coordinate with suppliers, manufacturing sites, and partners.
- Proven experience in operations, program management, manufacturing, supply chain, vendor management, or procurement, ideally within a high-tech or manufacturing environment.
- Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams, manage complex projects, and drive results in a fast-paced setting.
- Strong strategic thinking skills combined with a detail-oriented approach to managing programs and operational processes.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to effectively present updates and influence stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
- Ability to analyze data, identify trends, and develop actionable insights to improve manufacturing and supply chain performance.
- Experience working with manufacturing systems, ERP tools, or project management software is preferred.
- Self-motivated, proactive, and capable of working independently while collaborating effectively with diverse teams.
- Knowledge of quality standards and regulatory requirements relevant to manufacturing and product launches is a plus.
Nice to have
- Experience managing complex projects involving multiple stakeholders and tight deadlines.
- Familiarity with electromechanical system development and integration.
- Background in additive manufacturing or 3D printing industry is advantageous.
- Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles, Six Sigma, or other process improvement methodologies.
- Experience working with international suppliers and managing global supply chains.
Skills & tools
- Proficiency in project management methodologies and tools such as MS Project, Jira, or similar.
- Strong analytical skills for problem-solving, risk assessment, and decision-making.
- Ability to interpret technical data and translate it into actionable operational strategies.
- Excellent organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
- Effective communication skills, including the ability to prepare reports, presentations, and stakeholder updates.
- Familiarity with ERP systems, supply chain management software, and manufacturing execution systems (MES).
Practical notes
- Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
- The role is based on-site at our Somerville, MA headquarters, with on-site amenities such as healthy meals, snacks, and professional development opportunities.
- Benefits include comprehensive healthcare coverage, equity options in the form of RSUs, generous parental leave, and a flexible time-off policy.
- We are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace and encourage all qualified candidates to apply, regardless of background or experience level.
- Employees are expected to support a collaborative culture that values innovation, continuous improvement, and high-quality standards.
- The salary range for this position is from $95,000 to $130,000 annually, depending on experience and skills.
- As part of our compensation package, employees receive equity in the form of RSUs, allowing participation in the company's growth and success.