Operations Manager- Machining

JOB SUMMARY:

The Machining Operations Manager is a tactical leadership role responsible for overseeing all machining operations within the aerospace manufacturing environment. This role ensures operational excellence, efficiency, and compliance with aerospace quality standards while driving continuous improvement, innovation, and team development. The Operations Manager will lead machining production, maintenance, and process engineering teams to meet demanding aerospace industry requirements and support organizational growth objectives.

This position will play a crucial role in the production process and contribute to the team’s overall performance in Quality, Cost, Delivery, Safety, and Attitude (QCDSA).
We are a diverse team of collaborators, doers, and problem-solvers who are relentlessly committed to delivering excellence in aerospace manufacturing.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Lead and manage all machining operations, including setup, machining, tooling, and finishing processes.
• Facilitate and execute plans to optimize machining capacity, reduce cycle times, and improve yield while ensuring compliance with aerospace standards (AS9100, FAA, NADCAP).
• Collaborate closely with engineering, quality assurance, supply chain, and program management teams to align machining capabilities with production schedules and project requirements.
• Drive lean manufacturing initiatives, Six Sigma projects, and efforts to enhance operational efficiency.
• Ensure budgeting, forecasting, and cost control for the machining department to meet financial targets.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of supervisors, and technical staff to foster a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvement.
• Maintain supplier and vendor relationships to ensure quality and timely delivery of materials and services.
• Ensure strict adherence to safety protocols, environmental regulations, and company policies within machining operations.
• Report key performance metrics and operational status to executive leadership and recommend corrective actions when necessary.
• Stay informed of emerging machining technologies and aerospace industry trends to maintain competitive advantage.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS:

EDUCATION

• Bachelor’s degree in manufacturing engineering or related field and/or combination of degree and equivalent related work experience.
• MBA or advanced degree preferred.

EXPERIENCE

• Minimum 6 years of operations leadership experience, preferably in a machining operation within aerospace or other regulated manufacturing industries.
• Experience with manufacturing processes, equipment, and industry standards such as ISO, AS9100, NADCAP, and FAA regulations.
• Proven track record of ensuring operational excellence, lean manufacturing, and continuous improvement.
• Demonstrated leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence at all organizational levels.
• Experience managing complex programs and cross-functional teams in a fast-paced environment.

COMPUTER SKILLS

• Familiarity with CAD, PLM, CAM, digital twin technologies, and ERP systems.
• Experience and working skills with Word, Excel and other Office products.

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

• Detail-oriented and quality-focused.
• Collaborative leader who fosters teamwork and open communication.
• Adaptable to change and able to thrive in a dynamic aerospace environment.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS 

• Legally able to work in the United States.
• Adhere to OSHA, NADCAP, ISO9000 / AS9100, ITAR, FAA regulations and company specific safety standards.

• Internal Certifications: Forklift, Slings/Cranes, FPV, others deemed appropriate.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Must be able to stand, walk, bend, and reach for extended periods (up to 8-12 hours per shift). Able to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 25-50lbs regularly, and occasionally heavier weights with assistance.

Must be able to tolerate exposure to manufacturing environments, including moderate noise levels, vibrations, and varying temperatures.

Ability to wear personal protective equipment ae required, Such as safety glasses, gloves, and hearing protection.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment is primarily office environment with frequent interaction with the production floor. PPE as required on the production floor.

SAFETY SENSITIVE

This position is designated as Safety Sensitive under Oklahoma law, including the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana and Patient Protection Act. As a result, individuals in this position are subject to drug testing, and the use of medical marijuana—even with a valid license—is not permitted. This designation helps ensure a safe and compliant work environment for all employees.

The company has reviewed this job description to ensure that essential functions and basic duties have been included.  It is intended to provide guidelines for job expectations and the employees’ ability to perform the job successfully.  It is not intended to be construed as an all-inclusive list of duties.  Additional requirements may be assigned as deemed appropriate.  This document does not represent a contract of employment, as the company reserves the right to change the job description and/or tasks as they deem appropriate.

Pryer Aerospace is an equal opportunity employer. All candidates for employment will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, physical or mental disability, veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.