Machine Shop Manager

This opportunity is located within our Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense Company business, a global leader of mission-critical hardware and systems solutions including precision energetics systems and innovative explosive solutions.

Job Description

Join a Team That's Shaping the Future of Aerospace

Position: Machine Shop Manager

Location: Moorpark, CA

Job Type: Full-time | Leadership Role

Industry: Aerospace, Defense, High-Precision Manufacturing

About the Role:

As Machine Shop Manager, you'll lead a dynamic and growing team of machinists, programmers, and technicians responsible for producing mission-critical aerospace components. From state-of-the-art CNC machining to hands-on mentoring and process innovation, you'll be at the center of a high-tech operation delivering real-world impact.

What You'll Do:

Lead the Operation

• Manage all aspects of the machine shop, including CNC machining, multi-axis milling, deburring, and metrology.
• Drive performance in Safety, Quality, Delivery, Cost, and Culture.
• Develop and execute capacity plans aligned with production forecasts and customer needs (SIOP).

Build a High-Performing Team

• Recruit, mentor, and coach skilled professionals-from machinists to CNC programmers.
• Foster a culture of safety, collaboration, accountability, and continuous learning.
• Promote cross-training, career development, and hands-on technical excellence.

Drive Continuous Improvement

• Lead process optimization efforts using Lean, 5S, and EBOS tools (e.g., visual management, tier meetings, GEMBA walks).
• Implement automation, real-time monitoring, and digital manufacturing technologies to improve machine utilization and reduce cycle times.
• Use data-driven problem solving (e.g., root cause analysis, PFMEA, value stream mapping) to eliminate waste and enhance throughput.

Ensure Quality & Precision

• Maintain and improve compliance with AS9100, NADCAP, and other quality standards.
• Collaborate with engineering, quality, and supply chain teams to ensure manufacturability, efficiency, and reliability.
• Champion Design-for-Manufacturing (DFM) principles from concept through production.

Be a Strategic Leader

• Participate in site leadership and help shape site-wide strategies and initiatives.
• Coordinate with New Product Development to scale up new programs and ensure smooth operational launch.
• Engage and empower your team with regular communication, feedback, and recognition.

What You Bring:

Required:

• 7+ years in machining/precision manufacturing; 3+ years in a leadership or supervisory role.
• Deep knowledge of CNC machining, high-speed and multi-axis milling, and tight-tolerance manufacturing (preferably with titanium, Inconel, copper, aluminum).
• Strong working knowledge of AS9100 standards.
• Experience with advanced manufacturing technologies such as robotics, CAM (e.g., Mastercam, NX), ERP/MES systems, and real-time shop floor monitoring tools.
• Proven leadership and team-building skills, with a hands-on, problem-solving mindset.

Preferred:

• Background in aerospace, defense, medical device, or other regulated high-precision industries.
• Experience leading Lean initiatives, Kaizens, or continuous improvement programs.
• Familiarity with the Ensign-Bickford Operating System (EBOS) or similar business operating systems.

You'll Thrive Here If You:

• Enjoy solving complex manufacturing challenges in a fast-paced environment.
• Take pride in mentoring skilled tradespeople and growing teams.
• Embrace continuous improvement and process discipline.
• Lead by example-with integrity, focus, and respect for every team member.

Physical & Work Environment Requirements

• Standard manufacturing environment.
• Must be able to lift up to 45 lbs occasionally.
• Must have adequate vision and hearing for safe and effective communication on the shop floor.

Why EBAD?

• Work on mission-critical technologies with real-world impact.
• Collaborate with some of the best minds in the aerospace and defense industries.
• Be part of a culture that values innovation, safety, teamwork, and continuous growth.

Compensation:

Salary Range: $140,000 - $190,000 per year. Salary is determined by the applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, internal equity, and alignment with market data.

Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense Company is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, national origin, or veteran status.