Machining Manager; Lathes

Advanced Structural Technologies provided pay range

This range is provided by Advanced Structural Technologies. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

$95,000.00/yr - $/yr

About Us

Advanced Structural Technologies (AST) is a leading manufacturer specializing in forged, flow‑formed, and machined products for the aerospace, defense, and automotive industries. With over 25 years of experience, AST has built a strong reputation for precision engineering, innovation, and high‑quality manufacturing.

Located in Oxnard, California, AST operates out of a cutting‑edge facility spanning over 250,000 sq. ft., including our newest expansion completed in 2024. AST employs approximately 185 skilled professionals across multi‑shift operations, ensuring efficiency, precision, and timely delivery for mission‑critical industries.

Position Overview

We are seeking a hands‑on and experienced Machining Manager to oversee operations across our vertical lathes (VTLs), conventional machines, and tooling coordination efforts. This role is responsible for leading a team of machinists and coordinating closely with engineering and production teams to ensure smooth scheduling, maximum machine utilization, and timely availability of tooling assets and raw materials. The ideal candidate will have strong machining knowledge, solid organizational skills, and experience in supervising or leading shop floor personnel.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of machinists operating 8–10 VTLs and 3–5 conventional machines
• Schedule and coordinate job flow to ensure consistent spindle utilization and efficient production
• Oversee setup, tooling requirements, and machine availability to support daily and weekly production goals
• Act as the primary liaison between the Machine Shop, Engineering, and Production to align on priorities, tooling needs, and part readiness
• Monitor and track all tooling‑related activities, including tool maintenance, tool steel needs, and job‑specific fixture requirements
• Maintain and update the Tool Steel Inventory Report and ensure timely ordering of raw materials
• Assist in troubleshooting machining or tooling issues and expedite as needed to engineering or maintenance
• Support team development, coaching, and cross‑training to increase flexibility and operational efficiency
• Enforce safety protocols, quality standards, and standard operating procedures on the shop floor
• Participate in continuous improvement efforts and help identify opportunities to streamline machining operations

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in a machining environment, with at least 3 years in a supervisory, lead, or team coordinator role
• Strong working knowledge of VTL and conventional machining processes
• Experience reading blueprints and engineering drawings; familiarity with GD&T preferred
• Strong understanding of tooling, work holding, and job planning in a production environment
• Excellent organizational and scheduling abilities
• Effective communicator and collaborator across departments and shifts
• Ability to mentor, train, and lead machinists with diverse experience levels
• High school diploma or equivalent required; technical training or certifications in machining or manufacturing preferred

Why Join AST?

At AST, we believe in fostering a work environment where employees can thrive both personally and professionally. We offer a competitive benefits package, including:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 401(k) Savings Plan
• Company‑Sponsored Life Insurance
• Short‑term and Long‑term Disability Coverage
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Vacation and Sick Leave

Job Type & Pay

• Job Type: Full‑Time, In‑Person
• Pay Range: $95,000 – 125,000 per year (commensurate with experience)
• Schedule: Monday – Friday (8‑hour shift)
• Expected
  
  Hours:
  
  40+ hours per week (plus flexibility as needed)

If you’re an experienced machinist and leader looking to make an impact in a dynamic and growing manufacturing environment, we encourage you to apply and take the next step with AST.

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