Head of Manufacturing

About Robo OpticRobo Optic is a Taiwanese-founded robotics and optical systems manufacturer with operations in Hutto, TX. We design and produce high-precision optical components and modules for demanding industrial and commercial applications. As we scale our U.S. manufacturing footprint, we're looking for a seasoned Manufacturing Head to lead our production operations end-to-end.The RoleThe Manufacturing Head is a senior leadership position responsible for overseeing all aspects of manufacturing operations — from production line design and process control to yield optimization and team development. You will own the factory floor: driving efficiency, ensuring quality, and building a culture of continuous improvement rooted in data and discipline.This role requires a leader who doesn't just manage production — but deeply understands it.What You'll OwnProduction OperationsLead the full manufacturing operation for optical components and modules, including lens grinding, coating, assembly alignment, bonding, and related processesDesign and maintain production flow documentation including Value Stream Maps (VSM)Identify and eliminate bottlenecks using Theory of Constraints methodologyManage WIP levels across stations to optimize throughput and overall line efficiencyDefine and monitor takt time targets across production linesTest & MeasurementEvaluate test station design logic and measurement capability (MSA, GR&R) to ensure equipment is not a source of yield lossApply knowledge of optical measurement instrumentation — interferometers, optical power meters, autofocus systems, and image measurement systemsDistinguish process control stations from outgoing quality inspection stations and align them accordinglyQuality & YieldDrive yield improvement through structured failure analysis using FMEA and 8D methodologiesImplement and monitor SPC tools for statistical process control across critical parametersApply Cpk/Ppk analysis to assess and improve process capability — not just report the numbersDifferentiate root causes between equipment issues, process issues, and operator issues to drive targeted corrective actionsLeadership & Cross-Functional CollaborationBuild, mentor, and develop a high-performing manufacturing teamPartner with Engineering, Quality, and Supply Chain to align production goals with business objectivesReport on key manufacturing KPIs to senior leadership and Taiwanese HQ stakeholdersWhat We're Looking For10+ years of experience in manufacturing operations, with at least 3–5 years in a leadership roleBackground in optical component or optical module manufacturing strongly preferred; fiber optics or active optical component experience a plusHands-on fluency with optical specifications: wavefront error, MTF, surface roughness, transmittance, coupling efficiencyStrong command of Lean manufacturing, VSM, Theory of Constraints, SPC, FMEA, Cpk/PpkProven ability to build and scale production lines — not just manage existing onesExperience working with cross-cultural or international teams (Taiwan HQ collaboration is a plus)Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Optics, Physics, or related field; advanced degree preferredWhy Join Robo OpticGround-floor opportunity to shape U.S. manufacturing operations for a growing global companyHigh-impact, high-visibility role reporting directly to senior leadershipCompetitive compensationCollaborative, technically rigorous culture that values precision and ownership