Job Details

Production Manager - CNC & Tooling

Buena Park, CA
$85,000 - $120,000
Full Time - Day Shift
Direct Hire

About the Role

The CNC & Tooling Manager oversees the machining and tooling departments, ensuring high-efficiency production and rigorous quality control. This hands-on leadership role requires advanced technical proficiency in CNC equipment, multi-axis programming, and manufacturing software.

The Manager is responsible for driving production throughput, optimizing team performance, and implementing Lean Manufacturing strategies to reduce waste and streamline complex workflows.

Responsibilities

• Leadership & Supervision
• Lead, schedule, and supervise a team of skilled CNC machinists and technical programmers.
• Train and mentor staff on industry best practices, precision machining techniques, and Lean methodologies.
• Foster a high-performance culture centered on accountability, shop-floor safety, and professional development.
  
  Technical Oversight
• Oversee the programming and troubleshooting of diverse CNC machinery (including multi-axis mills, lathes, and routers).
• Review and validate G-code, CAM toolpaths, and CAD/CAM files to ensure "right-first-time" production.
• Manage tooling selection, custom setup optimization, and CNC process development for new product introductions.
• Maintain equipment reliability through oversight of preventative maintenance and performance monitoring.
  
  Production & Process Management
• Manage shop floor workflow to consistently meet or exceed 92% of monthly production targets.
• Identify and resolve production bottlenecks using Lean tools such as 5S, Kaizen, and Value Stream Mapping.
• Analyze operational data to standardize work instructions and drive measurable gains in machine uptime.
  
  Continuous Improvement & Quality
• Lead initiatives to reduce scrap and rework, aiming for a 12% reduction in operational waste annually.
• Apply Lean methodologies, including SMED (Single-Minute Exchange of Die) and Root Cause Analysis (RCA), to improve cycle times.
• Partner with Quality Assurance and Engineering to resolve technical non-conformances and implement long-term corrective actions.
  
  Software & Systems
• Utilize industry-standard CAM software for high-efficiency programming and simulation.
• Leverage ERP/MRP systems to manage scheduling, inventory levels, and work order accuracy.
• Track and report on Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) including machine utilization and unscheduled downtime.

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Mechanical/Manufacturing Engineering or a related technical discipline; equivalent combination of advanced certifications and practical experience will be considered.
• Professional Experience: Minimum of 12 years of hands-on experience in CNC machining and programming within a high-precision regulated industry (e.g., Aerospace, Medical Device, or specialized Automotive).
• Leadership Experience: Minimum 6 years in a formal people-management or supervisory role with a proven track record of team accountability.
• Technical Skills: Expert proficiency in G-code and CAM software.
• Extensive experience with 4 and 5-axis CNC controllers and complex machine setups.
• Mastery of blueprint reading and advanced GD&T application.
• Methodologies: Strong background in Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma Green Belt methodologies.
• Innovation: Experience with automated manufacturing processes, including robotic integration and in-process probing.