Vice President of Manufacturing (Harvard)
About Commonwealth Fusion Systems Commonwealth Fusion Systems is on a mission to deliver the urgent transition to fusion energy. Combining decades of research, top talent, and new technologies, we’re designing and building commercially viable fusion power plants. We’re working with policymakers and suppliers to build the energy industry of the future. Since 2018, we’ve raised nearly $3 bn in capital, making us the largest and leading private fusion company in the world. Vice President of Manufacturing As the Vice President of Manufacturing, you will be at the helm of our manufacturing processes, ensuring that our operations run seamlessly and efficiently. You will develop and implement strategies that enhance productivity, optimize resources, and maintain the highest standards of quality. Your leadership will drive continuous-improvement initiatives and foster a culture of innovation and excellence across the organization. Responsibilities include driving production results, implementing metrics aligned with company objectives, and managing risks across production. This role collaborates with leadership in R&D, Engineering, Supply Chain, Quality, and EHSS to ensure goal alignment and operational excellence. What you’ll do Operational Management Oversee all manufacturing operations to ensure they meet the company’s quality standards and customer requirements. Implement lean manufacturing principles and continuous‑improvement initiatives. Optimize production processes to improve efficiency and reduce costs. Planning and Execution Develop and implement operational strategies aligned with the company’s overall objective. Lead long‑term operational planning and budgeting. Identify and mitigate risks associated with operational activities. Team Leadership Build, lead, and mentor a high‑performing operations team. Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and innovation. Technology Integration Ensure the integration of new technologies into existing processes without disrupting operations. Collaborate with the R&D and IT departments to implement and manage technological advancements. Quality Assurance and Compliance Ensure compliance with industry standards, safety regulations, and quality control procedures. Implement and maintain robust quality assurance programs. Address and resolve any operational issues that affect product quality or regulatory compliance. Financial Management Develop and manage the operations budget. Monitor operational expenses and identify cost‑saving opportunities. Report on operational performance and financial metrics to the executive team. What we’re looking for Bachelor’s degree in engineering, manufacturing, or a related field (MBA or advanced degree preferred). Proven experience in a senior operational role within the tough‑tech manufacturing industry, with a demonstrated track record in leading plant operations, driving Manufacturing Centers of Excellence, and overseeing large teams across multiple shifts. Deep expertise in manufacturing processes, Lean principles, and quality management systems, with hands‑on experience in scaling best practices across manufacturing plants and integrating them into a Center of Excellence framework. Demonstrated ability to lead, coach, and develop high‑performance teams across diverse functional areas, fostering a culture of collaboration, safety, and accountability. Experience with technology integration and advanced manufacturing techniques. Strong background in strategic planning, process engineering, and implementing continuous‑improvement programs (Kaizen, Lean, Six Sigma) at a global or multi‑plant level. Strong financial acumen and experience managing budgets and financial performance. Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills. Must‑have Requirements This role typically involves working in both office and manufacturing environments. May require travel to various manufacturing sites and supplier locations. Flexibility to work extended hours as needed to meet business demands. Perform activities such as typing, standing, or sitting for extended periods of time. Work in a facility that contains industrial hazards including heat, cold, noise, fumes, strong magnets, lead (Pb), high voltage, high current, pressure systems, and cryogenics. Benefits Competitive compensation with equity. 13 company‑wide holidays. Flexible vacation days. 10 sick days. Generous parental leave policy. Health, dental, and vision insurance. 401(k) with employer matching. Professional growth opportunities. Team‑building activities. Salary range for this full‑time position equity benefits. The actual salary will depend on level, location, qualifications, and experience. The range displayed on each job posting reflects new‑hire salaries for the position across all U.S. locations. At CFS, we excel in fast‑paced environments, driven by our values of integrity, execution, impact, and self‑critique. As we grow, we’re eager to bring on mission‑driven folks who offer diverse perspectives and fresh ways to tackle challenges. We value diversity deeply and are proud to be an equal‑opportunity employer by choice. We consider all qualified applicants equally, regardless of race, color, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, protected veteran status, religion, physical or mental disability, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, or any other basis protected by law. This role requires compliance with U.S. laws concerning the export of controlled or protected technologies or information (collectively, “Export Control Laws”). Any offer of employment will be contingent on the need for compliance with such Export Control Laws. J-18808-Ljbffr
