Role

We are seeking a Senior Production Manager to lead the design, optimization, and scale-up of our micromachining processes, ensuring reliable delivery of high-quality microfluidic molds that support optical grade bio-microfluidic chipmaking.

The Senior Production Manager will lead the development and implementation of advanced micromachining strategies for our in-house manufacturing processes, driving continuous iterative improvement to machine the world’s highest-precision microfluidic molds. They will architect precision toolpaths and workflows using computer-aided machining (CAM), working closely with hardware engineers and microfluidics experts to innovate and refine our microfabrication at scale. Key to this will be leveraging $1M+ Kern micromachining centers to hold 1–2 µm tolerances over multiple days of ultraprecise machining and jig grinding.

The ideal candidate will be detail-oriented and technically adept with a passion for continuous process refinement. Operates at the forefront of precision engineering, balancing technical execution and operational oversight to advance Vivodyne’s groundbreaking mission in the biotech space.

As our operations grow, the production of ultra-precise microfluidic molds is central to scaling up large-scale biological microfluidics at Vivodyne and their vertical integration into our end-to-end platform — the discovery and development of new therapeutics using our lab-grown human tissues to yield human data before clinical trials. The microfluidics in which these human tissues are grown are central to our technology and capabilities. The scope of this role involves precision machinery, including Kuka robotics, advanced laser microscopes from world leaders like Nikon and Zeiss, and proprietary nanoprecision automation systems. This high-visibility position directly enables our deliverables to our drug discovery and development partners — the largest pharmaceutical companies in the world. Our culture celebrates and is obsessive about quality, precision, and the scale-building efforts that this role is directly centered on.

Responsibilities

Precision Micromachining & CAM

• Own the design and optimization of precision micromachining strategies for microfluidic molds.
• Develop and refine toolpaths using computer-aided machining (CAM), continuously optimizing for dimensional accuracy and surface finish.

Production Scale-Up & Process Improvement

• Relentlessly perform iterative refinement to produce the world’s highest-quality microfluidic molds for large-scale biological applications.
• Evaluate and implement state-of-the-art machining technologies and processes that drive Vivodyne’s evolving production quality advantage.
• Continuously assess production workflows to identify bottlenecks, reduce lead times, and improve cost efficiency.

Manufacturing Tracking & QA Implementation

• Implement and scale digital tracking of molds from manufacturing, through QA, and into production.
• Develop clear documentation and standardized workflows for mold fabrication, inspection, and validation.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (hardware, microfluidics, biology, QA) to maximize quality at each production step.

Equipment & Procurement Management

• Manage top-of-the-line machining equipment, planning calibration/maintenance and ensuring readiness for production demands.
• Coordinate cutting tool, toolholder, and material procurement strategies, ensuring availability, cost-effectiveness, and alignment with production plans.
• Work closely with vendors and suppliers to guarantee high-quality, timely, and scalable material sourcing; maintain close vendor relationships.

Cross-Functional Collaboration & Leadership

• Partner with hardware and microfluidics teams to design and integrate new concepts and mold requirements into production workflows.
• (In 1-2 years as we grow) Lead and mentor a small team of production technicians and operators to deliver on production requirements and scale our capability.

Requirements, Expectations and Qualifications

Operational & Project Management

• Proven track record of scaling production environments, including implementing and improving new processes, equipment, and quality systems.
• Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple concurrent production projects under tight deadlines.
• Experience working cross-functionally to execute on high-volume or complex manufacturing initiatives.

Technical Expertise

• 10+ years of experience in precision fabrication or technical domains including machining or related production fields.
• Understanding of milling and turning machining principles.
• Demonstrated success in optimizing manufacturing parameters for complex or high-precision parts to yield impeccable results.

Analytical & Problem-Solving

• Highly analytical mindset with experience in data-driven process improvements and statistical process control (SPC).
• Resourceful and proactive in diagnosing root causes of production issues, proposing and implementing corrective actions promptly.

Communication & Collaboration

• Strong written and verbal communication skills for effectively documenting processes and presenting technical information to diverse audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to partner with R&D, engineering, supply chain, and quality teams to drive cohesive, integrated production outcomes.

If you’re passionate about achieving excellence in precision manufacturing and want to be part of a team revolutionizing drug discovery through cutting-edge hardware, biology, and AI, we encourage you to apply. At Vivodyne, you will contribute to the manufacture of critical components that empower researchers and clinicians worldwide—ultimately enabling life-changing discoveries in human therapeutics. We look forward to hearing from you!