Machine Shop Manager

About the Role

Lead the Shop. Build the Team. Drive Results. You're not just managing machines—you're leading the people, processes, and performance that keep a high-precision machine shop running at its best. We're looking for a hands-on Machine Shop Manager who has earned their stripes on the shop floor and knows what it takes to deliver quality work, solve tough manufacturing challenges, and build a team that takes pride in what they produce.

Why This Role Stands Out

• Lead a skilled team of machinists who care about craftsmanship
• Own day-to-day shop operations and influence company success
• Stay connected to the work—this is a hands-on leadership role
• Drive process improvements and operational excellence
• Solve complex machining challenges every day
• Join a stable, growing company that values experience and leadership

Responsibilities

Shop Operations

• Direct daily activities across CNC mills, lathes, and manual machining equipment
• Ensure safe, efficient, and productive shop floor operations
• Balance priorities in a fast-paced, high-mix manufacturing environment

Production & Performance

• Build schedules, manage workflow, and keep jobs moving
• Drive on-time delivery and quality performance
• Remove obstacles, solve bottlenecks, and maximize shop efficiency

Continuous Improvement

• Improve setups, tooling strategies, and machining processes
• Reduce downtime, scrap, and wasted effort
• Implement practical solutions that improve productivity and profitability

Team Leadership

• Train, mentor, and develop machinists at all skill levels
• Foster accountability, teamwork, and professional growth
• Build a culture focused on quality, safety, and pride in craftsmanship

Requirements

Machining Expertise

• 5-7+ years of machining experience, including leadership or supervisory responsibilities
• Strong CNC machining background (Vertical and Turning Centers required; Horizontal experience preferred)
• Expertise in setups, tooling, troubleshooting, and tight-tolerance machining
• Hands-on experience solving complex manufacturing challenges

Technical Knowledge

• Strong understanding of GD&T and blueprint interpretation
• Working knowledge of G-code, feeds & speeds, and machining strategies
• Experience with FANUC controls
• CAM programming experience (Mastercam preferred)

Leadership Skills

• Respected by machinists because you've done the work yourself
• Ability to lead by example and build high-performing teams
• Strong decision-making and problem-solving skills
• Comfortable taking ownership and being accountable for results

What Success Looks Like

• Jobs ship on time and meet quality expectations the first time
• The team is engaged, productive, and continually improving
• Setup times decrease and shop efficiency increases
• Safety standards remain a top priority
• Customers receive reliable, high-quality products
• The shop operates smoothly, professionally, and profitably

Ideal Candidate

You've spent years mastering machining and naturally became the person others relied on for answers, leadership, and problem-solving. Now you're ready for a role where you can take ownership of the entire operation, develop the next generation of machinists, and drive the success of the shop. If you're a machinist who became a leader—not a manager who became a machinist—we want to talk to you.