VP of Advanced Manufacturing – 3D Medical Devices | Minneapolis, MN

Are you a forward-thinking manufacturing executive with a passion for innovation in the medical device industry? We are seeking a Vice President of Advanced Manufacturing to lead transformative initiatives in 3D-printed medical technologies at a cutting-edge company in Minneapolis, MN. This is a pivotal leadership role focused on scaling next-generation production processes, enhancing operational efficiencies, and driving product innovation in a high-growth environment. If you excel in fast-paced, regulated industries and thrive on solving complex challenges, this could be your next big opportunity.

Lead 3D Manufacturing Innovation in the Medical Device Hub of Minneapolis

A rapidly growing medical device company based in Minneapolis, MN is looking for a visionary Vice President of Advanced Manufacturing to oversee its 3D manufacturing operations. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in additive manufacturing, FDA-regulated production environments, and cross-functional leadership. You’ll play a critical role in shaping the future of custom medical solutions, from concept to commercialization, by harnessing the power of 3D printing technology. Join a mission-driven team that is revolutionizing patient care through engineering excellence.

Key Responsibilities of the Vice President of Advanced Manufacturing – 3D Medical Devices

Strategic Manufacturing Leadership
Define and execute a comprehensive advanced manufacturing strategy that aligns with corporate goals and industry advancements. Lead the evolution of 3D printing processes to drive innovation, scalability, and long-term competitiveness in the medical device sector.

Technology Development & Process Innovation
Oversee the development and integration of additive manufacturing technologies into production. Collaborate with R&D and engineering teams to enhance manufacturability, reduce time-to-market, and improve the performance of 3D-printed medical products.

Operational Optimization
Ensure manufacturing operations are efficient, compliant, and capable of supporting rapid growth. Drive lean manufacturing principles, process automation, and continuous improvement initiatives across production lines.

Quality Assurance & Regulatory Compliance
Champion a culture of quality and compliance within all manufacturing processes. Work closely with quality assurance and regulatory teams to meet FDA and ISO standards, while maintaining strict documentation and validation protocols.

Cross-Functional Collaboration
Coordinate with product development, supply chain, and commercial teams to align manufacturing capabilities with business needs. Ensure seamless technology transfer from design to production and support scale-up of new products.

Facility & Equipment Management
Lead the planning and management of advanced manufacturing facilities, including the selection and maintenance of cutting-edge 3D printing equipment. Ensure safe, compliant, and optimized environments for all production activities.

Talent Development & Team Building
Build and mentor a high-performing manufacturing team equipped with skills in digital fabrication, automation, and precision engineering. Promote a culture of innovation, accountability, and operational excellence.

Supply Chain Integration
Partner with procurement and logistics teams to ensure strategic sourcing of raw materials and components. Develop vendor relationships that support quality, cost-effectiveness, and just-in-time manufacturing capabilities.

Data-Driven Manufacturing & Industry 4.0
Leverage digital manufacturing tools, data analytics, and real-time monitoring systems to drive efficiency, traceability, and decision-making. Champion smart factory initiatives and IoT-enabled manufacturing environments.

Risk Management & Sustainability
Identify and mitigate risks related to manufacturing processes, materials, and supply chains. Drive sustainability initiatives focused on waste reduction, energy efficiency, and environmentally responsible production practices.

What the Client is Looking for in You

As the Vice President of Advanced Manufacturing – 3D Medical Devices, the client seeks a transformative leader with deep technical expertise, strategic vision, and a passion for innovation in medical technology. You should be a results-oriented executive with a proven ability to scale advanced manufacturing operations, lead cross-functional teams, and navigate the regulatory demands of the medical device industry.

Proven Manufacturing Leadership in Regulated Industries

The client is looking for an experienced manufacturing executive with a successful track record in leading production teams within FDA-regulated environments, preferably in medical devices or biotech. Experience overseeing additive manufacturing (3D printing) processes, driving lean manufacturing initiatives, and scaling high-compliance production systems is highly valued.

Strategic Vision for Advanced Manufacturing

The ideal candidate will bring a forward-thinking mindset and the ability to craft a manufacturing strategy that balances innovation, efficiency, and scalability. You should be able to anticipate industry shifts, leverage emerging technologies, and align manufacturing goals with overall business objectives.

Expertise in Additive Manufacturing Technologies

A strong background in additive manufacturing is critical. You should possess deep technical knowledge of 3D printing platforms, materials science, digital design workflows, and post-processing techniques. Experience integrating these technologies into commercial production lines is a key requirement.

Operational Excellence and Regulatory Compliance

You will be expected to build world-class operations that meet or exceed quality, safety, and compliance standards. The client values leaders who are detail-oriented, data-driven, and capable of implementing systems that ensure FDA, ISO, and other global regulatory compliance standards.

Track Record of Cross-Functional Collaboration

The client seeks a VP who excels in working cross-functionally with engineering, R&D, quality, and supply chain teams to streamline operations and accelerate product delivery. The ability to lead through influence, resolve cross-team dependencies, and communicate effectively at all levels is essential.

Team Builder and Talent Developer

A strong people leader, you should demonstrate a history of building high-performing technical teams. You must be capable of recruiting top-tier talent, fostering a culture of innovation and accountability, and mentoring future leaders in manufacturing and operations.

Financial and Operational Acumen

The client values leaders who can manage budgets, optimize resource allocation, and improve cost structures while scaling operations. You should be confident in using data analytics to guide decision-making and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

Passion for Innovation in Healthcare

Above all, the client is looking for someone deeply committed to improving patient outcomes through manufacturing innovation. You should be motivated by purpose, energized by challenge, and ready to lead a new era of precision-engineered, 3D-printed medical solutions.

FAQs About the Role – VP of Advanced Manufacturing – 3D Medical Devices

What are the key responsibilities of the VP of Advanced Manufacturing?
As the VP of Advanced Manufacturing, you will lead the development and execution of advanced 3D manufacturing strategies, oversee production operations, ensure regulatory compliance, and drive continuous improvement initiatives. You will collaborate cross-functionally to scale additive manufacturing processes, optimize facility performance, and build a high-performing team dedicated to delivering innovative medical devices.
What qualifications and experience are required for this position?
The ideal candidate will have significant leadership experience in advanced manufacturing within FDA-regulated industries, preferably medical devices or biotech. Expertise in additive manufacturing technologies, lean manufacturing, and operational excellence is essential. A strong technical background combined with strategic vision and proven ability to manage complex production environments is highly valued. Advanced degrees in engineering or related fields are preferred but not mandatory.
What leadership qualities are essential for this role?
We seek a visionary, results-driven leader with excellent problem-solving and communication skills. You should be adept at fostering collaboration across teams, driving innovation, and mentoring talent. Strong business acumen, adaptability to evolving technologies, and a passion for delivering high-quality medical products are crucial to success.
What challenges can I expect in this role?
You will face challenges such as integrating cutting-edge 3D printing technologies into scalable production, navigating strict regulatory landscapes, and ensuring operational efficiency under growth pressures. Leading change management, optimizing supply chains, and maintaining stringent quality standards in a fast-paced environment will also be key focus areas.
What is the expected impact of the VP of Advanced Manufacturing on the company?
Your leadership will be instrumental in driving the company’s ability to innovate and scale 3D-printed medical devices, ultimately improving patient outcomes. By optimizing manufacturing operations and enabling faster product commercialization, you will contribute directly to revenue growth, market expansion, and the company’s reputation as an industry leader.
What is the company’s culture and work environment like?
The company promotes a collaborative, mission-driven culture focused on innovation, quality, and continuous improvement. You’ll join a dynamic team passionate about transforming healthcare through advanced manufacturing technologies. The work environment encourages open communication, professional growth, and a strong commitment to patient-centric solutions.

What Remuneration Can You Expect from This Job?

As the Vice President of Advanced Manufacturing in the cutting-edge field of 3D Medical Devices based in Minneapolis, MN, you can anticipate a competitive and comprehensive compensation package designed to attract top-tier leadership talent with deep expertise in advanced manufacturing and medical technologies. Typical remuneration for this senior executive role includes:

Base Salary
The base salary for a VP-level role in advanced manufacturing within the medical device sector generally ranges from $180,000 to $300,000 annually. The exact figure depends on company size, complexity of operations, and candidate experience.
Performance-Based Bonuses
In addition to base pay, most compensation packages include annual performance bonuses tied to key operational and business outcomes, such as manufacturing efficiency improvements, product launch success, and cost management. Bonus potential typically ranges from 20% to 50% of the base salary.
Equity & Stock Options
Many companies in this space offer equity incentives—such as stock options, restricted stock units (RSUs), or performance shares—to align leadership rewards with company growth and shareholder value. Equity awards can represent a significant portion of total compensation, especially in high-growth or privately held companies.
Long-Term Incentive Plans (LTIPs)
Some employers offer LTIPs or profit-sharing plans that reward sustained manufacturing excellence and innovation over multiple years. These programs encourage focus on long-term scalability, quality, and compliance.
Executive Benefits & Perks
Typical benefits for a VP role include:

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
Retirement plans with company contributions (401(k), pension)
Executive wellness and professional development programs
Flexible work arrangements and generous paid time off
Travel allowances or company vehicle options, if applicable

Signing Bonuses & Relocation Assistance
For highly qualified candidates, companies may offer signing bonuses or relocation packages to facilitate a smooth transition, especially if moving to the Minneapolis area. These incentives vary widely based on experience and company policies.

Total Compensation Potential

When combining base salary, bonuses, equity incentives, and benefits, total compensation for the VP of Advanced Manufacturing role can range from $250,000 to $500,000+ annually, depending on the company’s stage, size, and market position.

How to Apply

If you are an innovative and strategic manufacturing leader with extensive experience in advanced manufacturing and 3D medical device production, we invite you to apply for the Vice President of Advanced Manufacturing role based in Minneapolis, MN. This is a unique opportunity to drive transformational growth, lead cutting-edge manufacturing initiatives, and shape the future of patient-centric medical technologies.

To apply, please submit your updated resume along with a cover letter that highlights your leadership experience in FDA-regulated manufacturing environments, expertise in additive manufacturing, operational excellence, and success in scaling advanced production processes. Emphasize your ability to lead cross-functional teams, drive innovation, and ensure regulatory compliance in a fast-paced, mission-driven organization.

This role offers a high-impact executive career opportunity to influence industry-leading manufacturing strategies, foster innovation, and accelerate the commercialization of 3D-printed medical devices. Apply today to advance your career as the Vice President of Advanced Manufacturing at a pioneering medical device company in Minneapolis, MN!

For additional information or to explore other leadership opportunities in medical technology, please visit our Executive Careers Page.

Job Category: 3D Medical Devices

Job Type: Full Time

Job Location: Minneapolis

VP of Advanced Manufacturing – 3D Medical Devices | Minneapolis, MN