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External Manufacturing Leader

External Manufacturing Leader

NatureWorks LLCMinneapolis, MN, US
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Job Description

Job Description

External Manufacturing Leader– Polymer Products

Location : Plymouth, MN or Blair, NE (on site)

Travel : ~10–20% (primarily within North America)

Do you enjoy taking the lead to make complex projects run smoothly and efficiently? NatureWorks is seeking a driven, results-oriented External Manufacturing Leader to manage third-party production of commercial and experimental polymer materials that support our Growth team’s product pipeline.

In this role, you’ll take full ownership of external manufacturing—selecting toll partners, managing end-to-end logistics, driving production campaigns, and ensuring quality and delivery standards are met. You’ll collaborate closely with internal R&D, operations, and supply chain functions to help bring innovative materials from concept to scale.

Key Responsibilities :

  • Identify, qualify, and manage external manufacturing partners for experimental and commercial polymer products.
  • Lead technology transfer processes and coordinate manufacturing campaigns.
  • Negotiate pricing and production schedules with tollers.
  • Oversee raw material shipments and final product logistics to and from North America and Europe.
  • Ensure production activities are accurately tracked in SAP and meet quality and regulatory requirements.
  • Support onsite audits and production campaigns at external manufacturers.
  • Collaborate with Asia Pacific external manufacturing where needed.
  • Align production plans with Sales & Operations Planning and the Growth Organization.

Required Qualifications :

  • B.S. in Chemistry, Engineering, or related field
  • Minimum 5 years of hands-on experience in twin-screw extrusion, including reactive extrusion
  • 5+ years in manufacturing or supply chain operations
  • 3+ years managing external manufacturing for polymer products

    • Preferred Qualifications :

  • Familiarity with PLA or other biopolymers
  • Experience with polymer properties, processing, and analytical QA / QC techniques
  • SAP proficiency

    • Compensation and Benefits :

  • Annual salary : $130,000–$150,000
  • 13% target annual bonus
  • Comprehensive benefits package including :
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid sick leave, family sick time, holidays, and 160 hours of vacation
  • Parental leave and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Retirement savings with 5.5% automatic company contribution plus 50% match on the first 6% of employee contributions
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    Manufacturing Leader • Minneapolis, MN, US