Sr Manager, Machine Shop

About the Team: 

The mission of the Machine Shop is to deliver high-precision, high-quality machined components while pioneering advanced manufacturing methods to support the rapid development and production of Terran-R’s reusable launch system. Through cross-functional collaboration, rigorous quality control, and a commitment to continuous improvement, we play a vital role in accelerating aerospace innovation. 

We are responsible for machining critical flight hardware, optimizing manufacturing processes, and ensuring efficiency, reliability, and scalability in high-rate production. Over the past year, the Machine Shop team has successfully developed and refined machining processes for complex propulsion components. Now, we are entering a critical phase: scaling our machining operations to support full-rate vehicle production and enable Terran-R’s first launch to orbit. 

About the Role:

• Lead and scale a high-performing machine shop, overseeing CNC machining, multi-axis milling, and precision manufacturing to support aerospace-grade component production. 
• Drive operational efficiency, throughput, and quality, ensuring machining processes meet aggressive production rate targets while maintaining AS9100/NADCAP standards. 
• Develop and implement automation, digital manufacturing, and real-time monitoring solutions to optimize machine utilization and reduce cycle times. 
• Build, mentor, and develop a world-class team of machinists, programmers, and technicians, fostering a culture of technical excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement. 
• Collaborate closely with engineering, supply chain, and quality teams to integrate design-for-manufacturing (DFM) principles, ensuring manufacturability and cost-effectiveness. 
• Own full accountability for machine shop performance, driving improvements in lead time, tooling strategies, workflow efficiency, and overall production scalability. 

About You:

• 7+ years of experience in machining and precision manufacturing, with at least 3 years in a leadership role overseeing machine shop operations in aerospace, automotive, or other high-precision industries. 
• Expertise in CNC machining, high-speed milling, multi-axis machining, and tight-tolerance manufacturing, particularly with aerospace-grade materials like titanium, Inconel, copper, and aluminum. 
• Proven ability to lead and optimize high-performing machining centers, driving efficiency, throughput, and process reliability while maintaining strict AS9100/NADCAP quality standards. 
• Experience implementing advanced machining technologies such as automation, robotics, and digital manufacturing, ensuring scalability and continuous improvement. 
• Strong leadership skills with a track record of building and mentoring high-performing machinist and programming teams, fostering a culture of accountability and technical excellence. 
• Hands-on problem-solving mindset, with expertise in DFM, CAM software (e.g., Mastercam, NX), ERP/MES systems, and real-time production monitoring to optimize workflow and machine utilization. 

Nice to haves but not required:  

• Experience scaling high-rate aerospace machining operations, optimizing cycle times, and implementing lights-out manufacturing with automation. 
• Background in additive manufacturing, hybrid machining, or advanced material processing to support next-generation aerospace component production. 
• Strong knowledge of aerospace manufacturing standards (AS9100, NADCAP, ITAR compliance) with experience leading teams through rigorous certification and audit processes. 
• Expertise with lean manufacturing, Six Sigma methodologies, and statistical process control (SPC) to drive continuous improvement and waste reduction in machining operations.