Operations Manager

Job Description

Job Description

Location: Shelburne, VT

Job Type: Full-Time

Reports To: VP of Manufacturing

About Us

Atlas Gunworks is an industry leader in the premium handgun market. We've grown rapidly by bringing fresh thinking and higher quality standards to a historic industry.

Every Atlas gun is machined from billet aluminum and steel. We combine the art of hand metal working with our state-of-the-art, multi-axis CNC machine shop.

Position Summary

The Operations Manager leads all manufacturing operations at Atlas. You'll manage and develop the team, hold the department to exacting quality standards, and drive the process improvements needed to keep pace with production demands. This role combines hands-on operational leadership with process ownership, working closely with production, engineering, and quality teams to ensure every firearm meets Atlas Gunworks' standard of fit and finish.

What You’ll Do

•         Team Leadership: Train, schedule, and operations.

•         Ownership and Accountability: Ensure team performance meets expectations.  Drive the improvements and changes required when expectations are not met. 

•         Production Oversight: Manage daily workflow all operations to meet production schedules and quality targets.

•         Quality Assurance: Enforce quality specifications for fit and finish; oversee self-inspection practices and resolve non-conformances.

•         Process Improvement: Drive to improve flow and reduce waste. 

•         Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work with production, engineering, and quality teams to troubleshoot issues and implement process changes.

•         Performance Management: Set goals, conduct performance reviews, and support the growth of department staff.

•         Documentation & Reporting: Maintain department records, track key metrics, and report on production output, quality, and project progress.

•         Safety & Housekeeping: Ensure the department follows safety protocols and keeps work areas clean and organized.

What We’re Looking For

Our ideal candidate is a hands-on Lean Manufacturing leader who knows the craft, holds a high bar for quality, and can build and develop a strong team. Here’s what you’ll need to succeed:

Skills and Experience

•         3+ years of experience in manufacturing, machining, gunsmithing, or finishing operations, including prior supervisory or lead experience.

•         Lean Manufacturing experience.

•         Proven ability to lead, train, and hold a team accountable to quality and production standards.

•         Strong organizational and project management skills.

•         Clear communicator who can coordinate effectively across departments and with outside vendors.

•         Comfortable problem-solving and adapting priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

•         Visual acuity and attention to detail—every millimeter matters.

Preferred Traits

•         Experience in firearms manufacturing or another precision manufacturing industry.

•         Familiarity with process documentation, SOPs, and continuous improvement methods.

•         Track record of developing technicians and specialists into more advanced roles.

Why Join Us?

At Atlas Gunworks, we believe in rewarding hard work and dedication. When you join our team, you’ll enjoy:

•         Comprehensive Benefits: Medical, Vision, Dental, STD/LTD

•         401(k) Match: Up to 5% contribution

•         Paid Time Off & Sick Time

•         Exclusive Employee Perks: Company events, purchase discounts, and more.

•         Wellness Support: Gym and access to a personal trainer and weekly Occupational Therapy.

•         Bonus Program: Quarterly incentives to earn bonuses.

Grow With Us

This role is an opportunity to lead a growing department at one of the fastest-moving names in premium handguns, and to shape how finishing is done here for years to come. Success in this role can lead to broader operations leadership opportunities within Atlas Gunworks.