Operations Manager

Your mission

We are seeking multiple Operations Managers to support day‑to‑day production at our state‑of‑the‑art 3D printed footwear facility in Austin, Texas. These leaders will oversee production and post‑production operations including printing, washing, drying, finishing and quality assurance, while driving efficiency, consistency and operational excellence across their assigned shifts.

This role works closely with senior leadership, supporting the broader operational strategy defined by the Director of Operations.

Ideal candidates bring experience in additive manufacturing, consumer production or advanced manufacturing systems, along with a strong foundation in Lean / Six Sigma Manufacturing practices.

• Safety First – Ensure compliance with safety, environmental and quality standards.
• Lead shift‑level operations including 3D printing, finishing, cleaning, quality assurance and shipping.
• Manage production technicians, assign tasks, coordinate shift schedules and ensure consistent staffing.
• Execute operational strategies that support scaling production while maintaining high product quality.
• Apply Lean Manufacturing principles (5S, Kaizen, VSM, waste reduction) to improve throughput and reduce variability.
• Support workflow design, production scheduling and process automation initiatives.
• Collaborate with R&D, design, engineering and product development teams to translate new product concepts and prototypes into repeatable, efficient production processes.
• Maintain accurate production reporting, KPIs and performance dashboards related to efficiency, yield, downtime and cost.
• Troubleshoot operational or equipment issues and coordinate with maintenance and engineering teams.
• Train and mentor team members on equipment usage, SOPs, safety practices and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Contribute to capacity planning, resource allocation and operational forecasting.

• 5+ years of experience in manufacturing, additive manufacturing or related production environments.
• Prior leadership or shift‑management experience required.
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing methodologies (5S, Kaizen, value stream mapping, etc.) and or Six Sigma experience strongly preferred.
• Familiarity with 3D printers, fabrication equipment or similar technology is a plus.
• Strong analytical, problem solving and decision‑making abilities.
• Excellent leadership, organisational and communication skills.
• Willingness to work assigned shift; flexibility for weekends or extra hours as needed.

We are an innovative start‑up at the forefront of 3D‑printed shoe technology, and we’re looking for passionate engineers to join our dynamic team. In this key role, you’ll have the opportunity to directly influence the future of how shoes are designed and produced, making your mark on an exciting and rapidly growing industry.

Zellerfeld is revolutionising the footwear industry with the world’s first 3D‑printing technology for fully customisable shoes. Our goal is simple: printed shoes on every foot. We’re a passionate team of engineers, designers and innovators, questioning the status quo and disrupting traditional manufacturing processes. Backed by founders, influencers and celebrities who believe in our vision, we’re committed to making a lasting, positive impact—not just on the footwear industry, but on the world.

Seniority level: Mid‑Senior level

Employment type: Full‑time

Job function: Management and Manufacturing

Industries: Retail Apparel and Fashion