Machine Shop Manager
Lead the in-house machine shop at Astro Mechanica, ensuring high-performance manufacturing in a fast-paced aerospace environment.
Posted by employer 2 days ago
First seen on Joblaze 2 days ago
Last verified on the company career page 12 hours ago
What you'll build
- Own day-to-day operations of the machine shop
- Lead, schedule, and develop machinists and technicians
- Supervise activities of machinists and technicians
- Oversee setup and operation of CNC machines
Must have
- 5+ years of experience in high-mix, low-volume manufacturing
- Strong knowledge of CNC and manual machining processes
- Proven ability to lead teams and prioritize work
- Comfort working from engineering drawings and CAD models
Nice to have
- Familiarity with inspection practices and quality standards
- Ambition to work in a fast-paced environment
Practical constraints
- In-office work five days a week
Requirements
- Experience
- 5+ years
Not disclosed in this posting: compensation, visa sponsorship.
Benefits
Joblaze summary
The Machine Shop Manager at Astro Mechanica oversees the daily operations of the in-house machine shop, ensuring efficient production of propulsion, airframe, and test hardware. This role requires expertise in CNC and manual machining processes, along with a strong background in aerospace manufacturing and prototyping. Ideal candidates will have over five years of experience leading teams in high-pressure environments, with a focus on quality and precision. The position emphasizes hands-on leadership and collaboration within a flat organizational structure.
Joblaze insights
- Listed 2 days ago — first seen on Joblaze October 21, 2026. Last confirmed on Astro Mechanica's careers page October 23, 2026.
Quick facts
- Is the Machine Shop Manager role remote?
- No — this is an on-site role in San Francisco.
- How much experience is required?
- At least 5 years of relevant experience for this Machine Shop Manager role.
- Where is the role based?
- Astro Mechanica is hiring for this position in San Francisco.
- What seniority level is this role?
- Astro Mechanica targets lead candidates for this position.
- Is this full-time or contract?
- Full-time for this Machine Shop Manager role at Astro Mechanica.
From the original posting
WHO YOU ARE:
A hands-on manufacturing leader who knows how to run a high-performance machine shop while staying close to the work
Comfortable balancing speed, precision, and safety in a rapid prototyping and flight hardware environment
A mentor and organizer who builds strong teams, clear processes, and a culture of accountability and pride in workmanship
WHAT YOU’LL DO:
Own day-to-day operations of Astro Mechanica’s in-house machine shop, supporting propulsion, airframe, and test hardware development
Lead, schedule, and develop machinists, CNC programmers and technicians while maintaining a hands-on presence on the floor
Supervise and coordinate the activities of machinists, fabricators, and technicians to meet production goals.
Oversee the setup, operation, and maintenance of CNC milling machines, CNC lathes, and other machining equipment
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR:
5+ years of experience in high-mix, low-volume manufacturing and prototyping, particularly within aerospace, defense, or similarly complex, precision-driven industries.
Strong knowledge of CNC and manual machining processes, materials (aluminum, steel, titanium, superalloys), and aerospace tolerances
Proven ability to lead teams, prioritize work, and deliver high-quality parts on aggressive schedules
Comfort working directly from engineering drawings, CAD models, and evolving designs
Familiarity with inspection practices, GD&T, and quality standards relevant to flight and test hardware
Thoughtful management skills and the ability to lead a growing technical team.
Ambition to work in a fast-paced environment.
PERKS & BENEFITS:
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, including Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
401(k) program and transparent stock option plan
Flexible work environment
Standard company text repeated across Astro Mechanica's postings is omitted here.