Aerospace & Defense CNC Machine Shop Manager

CONFIDENTIAL CLIENT

Aerospace & Defense CNC Machine Shop Manager

Are you a hands-on manufacturing leader who can drive operational productivity, ensure quality, and motivate a team of machinists and CNC programmers?

Captain Our Precision Manufacturing Shop

Our confidential client is seeking an experienced Aerospace & Defense CNC Machine Shop Manager to lead a precision machining operation supporting aerospace, defense, and government customers. This hands-on leadership role is responsible for shop operations, CNC programming, production planning, estimating, quality compliance, and team performance in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

What You'll Do

Manufacturing Operations & Leadership

Required Qualifications

The ideal candidate will have:

• 15+ years of aerospace, defense, or precision manufacturing experience
• 10+ years of manufacturing operations or production leadership experience
• 5+ years of program or project management experience with responsibility for cost, schedule, and performance
• Extensive hands‑on knowledge of CNC machining operations, tooling, production processes, and shop management
• Strong proficiency with Mastercam, G‑code programming, CAD/CAM systems, and production planning
• Experience preparing manufacturing estimates, quotations, and production plans from engineering drawings and specifications
• Strong understanding of AS9100, ISO 9001, ITAR, and DFARS compliance requirements
• Experience using ERP/MRP systems in a manufacturing environment
• Excellent leadership, communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to interpret complex engineering drawings and translate them into effective manufacturing solutions

Education: Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Technology, or a related field is preferred. Equivalent industry experience may be substituted for all educational requirements.

Preferred Qualifications

Candidates with the following experience are strongly encouraged to apply:

• Experience with SolidWorks and Surfcam
• Active or previous Secret security clearance
• Direct experience supporting NASA, DoD, or prime aerospace contractor machining programs
• Background in high-mix, low-volume precision machining environments

Why Join Us?

Lead a high-performing precision manufacturing operation supporting critical aerospace, defense, and space programs. As a key member of the leadership team, you'll have the opportunity to drive operational excellence, develop skilled manufacturing professionals, and help shape the future growth of the organization. We offer a collaborative environment where innovation, accountability, technical expertise, and continuous improvement are valued and rewarded.