Fiber Extrusion Engineering Manager

A recognized leader in telecom manufacturing is expanding their fiber optic capabilities and looking for a process-driven engineering professional to help drive innovation and quality. With a strong market presence and a collaborative, people-focused culture, this company offers the chance to work on cutting-edge projects that support global broadband expansion—all while enjoying long-term career growth and stability.

The Fiber Manufacturing Process Engineering Lead will oversee extrusion operations and lead process improvement for fiber optic cable manufacturing. This position plays a critical role in optimizing production, managing technical staff, scaling new designs, and driving cross-functional collaboration. Ideal for someone who thrives in hands-on environments and is eager to take ownership of strategic manufacturing initiatives.

This Role Offers:

  • Significant ownership of the fiber extrusion function with executive visibility.
  • Pathway to broader operational or global engineering leadership.
  • Help build the team, shape strategy, and influence product innovation.
  • Competitive salary, performance bonus, and relocation assistance if needed.
  • Collaborative, low-turnover environment with strong internal support and a people-first philosophy.

Focus:

  • Lead day-to-day operations for the extrusion line, including startup, shutdown, changeovers, and material planning.
  • Design, refine, and scale manufacturing processes, tools, and fixtures to enhance throughput, efficiency, and quality.
  • Analyze key productivity indicators (KPIs), monitor line performance, and identify opportunities for process optimization and cost reduction.
  • Troubleshoot production issues, conduct root cause analysis, and implement corrective actions.
  • Define and document extrusion best practices; develop training materials and mentor junior technicians.
  • Manage maintenance programs for tooling, equipment, and spares to prevent downtime and increase reliability.
  • Coordinate engineering efforts across departments (R&D, quality, production) to support process validation, new cable designs, and equipment integration.
  • Oversee small-scale manufacturing pilot runs and support scale-up to high-volume production.
  • Guide hiring and onboarding of new extrusion staff as the team scales.
  • Ensure compliance with ISO, quality management systems (QMS), and manufacturing best practices.

Skill Set:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Material Science, or a related technical discipline.
  • Minimum 8 years of hands-on experience in polymer extrusion or fiber cable manufacturing.
  • Proven expertise with fiber optic cable production processes and tools.
  • Background in telecom or cable manufacturing strongly preferred.
  • Solid understanding of SPC, process control, and equipment troubleshooting.
  • Experience working with Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) and automated production systems.
  • Strong project management capabilities and ability to lead cross-functional initiatives.
  • Excellent communication and team leadership skills.
  • Comfortable working in a dynamic, high-growth environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience supporting international manufacturing projects.
  • Familiarity with BABA (Build America, Buy America) compliance practices.
  • Knowledge of raw material behavior, extrusion tooling, and line optimization.
  • Ability to train others and develop scalable process documentation.

About Blue Signal:

Blue Signal is an award-winning, executive search firm specializing in various specialties. Our recruiters have a proven track record of placing top-tier talent across industry verticals, with deep expertise in numerous professional services. Learn more at bit.ly/46Gs4yS 

Location
Greater Minneapolis-St. Paul A MN