Production Manager - NPI Pilot Operations

Brooks is a leading provider of automation solutions with over 40 years of experience in the semiconductor industry, offering precision robotics, integrated automation systems, and contamination control solutions that empower chip manufacturers worldwide. Our product portfolio includes a range of automation solutions, including robots, vacuum systems, and atmospheric robots for semiconductor manufacturing (www.brooks.com).

Are you looking for a place where you can be part of a transformation? Join us at Brooks Automation and be a part of a dynamic organization that is shaping the future of technology.

Job Description

We are seeking a hands-on, execution-focused Production Manager to lead manufacturing operations within our NPI Pilot environment.

This role is responsible for owning daily build execution on the production floor, ensuring pilot builds are delivered safely, on time, and to quality expectations. Operating in a low-volume, high-mix, and rapidly changing environment, the Production Manager plays a critical role in translating engineering designs into manufacturable builds and driving real-time problem resolution.

The ideal candidate is a strong people leader and operator, capable of balancing day-to-day execution with continuous improvement and readiness for future production scale.

WHAT YOU'LL DO:

Pilot Build Execution (Primary Ownership)

· Own execution of NPI pilot builds and early production runs.

· Ensure readiness of labor, tooling, work instructions, and line setup prior to build.

· Drive adherence to build plans in coordination with the NPI Master Planner and Ops PM.

Shop Floor Leadership & Team Development

· Lead and develop a team of 15–20 operators and technicians.

· Set clear expectations and drive accountability for performance and behavior.

· Hire, train, and build capability to support evolving NPI program needs.

Cross-Functional Execution

· Partner closely with Engineering, NPI Master Planner, Supply Chain, and Ops Program Management.

· Provide real-time feedback to Engineering on design, process, and test issues.

· Ensure fast issue resolution loop between production and upstream stakeholders.

Performance Management

· Own and drive metrics across Safety, Quality, Delivery, and Cost/Productivity.

· Monitor daily production performance and take corrective actions to meet build targets.

· Maintain strong safety culture, especially in environments involving automation and robotics.

Problem Solving & Issue Resolution

· Lead structured problem-solving using methodologies such as 8D, 5Why and 4M1E.

· Contain and resolve build issues quickly to minimize impact to schedule and quality.

· Escalate and coordinate cross-functional support for critical blockers.

Continuous Improvement & Pilot-to-Production Readiness

· Drive improvements in build efficiency, cycle time, yield, and labor productivity.

· Establish and standardize pilot processes to support future production ramp.

· Identify gaps in manufacturability and drive improvements before scale-up.

WHAT YOU'LL BRING:

· Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Operations, or a related field (or equivalent experience).

· Minimum of 5 years of manufacturing experience, including team leadership.

· Experience in NPI, pilot production, or low-volume/high-mix environments strongly preferred.

· Proven ability to lead teams in a fast-paced, execution-driven manufacturing environment.

· Strong technical aptitude with manufacturing processes, tooling, and equipment.

· Experience in semiconductor, robotics, or automation manufacturing preferred.

· Strong understanding of manufacturing process development and scale-up preferred.

· Hands-on experience with structured problem-solving (8D, Lean, Six Sigma) preferred.

· Ability to operate effectively under frequent design changes and shifting priorities preferred.

· Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills preferred.

Compensation

Base Salary Range: $105,593.46 USD to $142,861.74 USD

Factors which may affect starting pay within this range may include geography/market, skills, education, experience and other qualifications of the successful candidate.

This position is also eligible for an annual discretionary bonus.

Benefits

At Brooks, we offer the following benefits for this position, subject to applicable eligibility requirements:

Medical, Dental, Vision and Disability Insurance
401(k) Plan
Exempt employees are provided company paid holidays and Flexible Vacation to enjoy personal time off and incidental sickness.

Have a question about our benefits and compensation package? Your recruiter can share more with you during the hiring process.

Work Location & Flexibility
At Brooks, we aim to foster a collaborative and engaging environment while offering flexibility where possible. Work arrangements may include a mix of in-office and remote work, depending on the nature of the role and business needs. Specific expectations will be shared during the interview process.

Brooks is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and proudly serves as an equal-opportunity employer. We welcome all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristics.

Diversity enhances our innovative capabilities and strengthens our ability to serve our customers and communities effectively. At Brooks Automation, we celebrate the unique experiences and perspectives each individual brings, believing they are essential to our collective success. Join us in building a workplace where every team member is valued and can thrive.

For applicants with disabilities requiring accommodations, don't hesitate to get in touch with talentattraction@brooks.com or call +1 (978) 262-2400 to discuss your needs.

Review EEO Law & EEO Statement.

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