Machine Shop Manager

Job TitleMachine Shop Manager Agency Texas A&M Engineering Department Space Institute Proposed Minimum SalaryCommensurate Job Location Houston, Texas Job Type Staff

The Machine Shop Manager, under direction, leads the operation of the Texas A&M University Space Institute’s machine shop in Houston. This position is responsible for overseeing machine shop operations, fabrication services, equipment resources, user training programs, and personnel to support tenants, researchers, and Institute initiatives. The Machine Shop Manager provides advanced technical expertise in machining and fabrication, manages fee-for-service projects, supervises machine shop personnel, and ensures safe, efficient, and innovative use of resources in support of a dynamic aerospace and robotics-focused environment. This is a hands‑on management role that requires both leadership and direct participation in machining, fabrication, shop operations, and material‑handling work.

Responsibilities

Operations

Oversees and directs daily operations of the machine shop and fabrication laboratory.

Leads the production of specialized components and custom parts to support tenant and Institute projects.

Consults with tenants, researchers, and staff to determine the fabrication requirements, project feasibility, materials, and manufacturing methods to ensure timely completion of projects.

Prepares estimates for labor, materials, equipment usage, and project timelines for fabrication services.

Maintains, evaluates, and ensures proper operation of complex equipment (e.g., CNC mills, lathes, welding systems, precision instrumentation).

Establishes and maintains standard operating procedures (SOPs) for machining, fabrication, and equipment usage.

Manages inventory of materials, tools, and supplies, and coordinates procurement activities.

Coordinates complex builds, prototypes, and fabrication projects requiring advanced technical judgment.

Supervision, Training, and Technical Leadership

Supervises machine shop personnel, including Machine Shop Coordinator, and assigns work priorities.

Provides hands‑on technical instruction and mentorship on machining, shop tools, fabrication processes, and equipment operation.

Oversees and approves safe use of equipment by staff, tenants, and authorized users in accordance with established training and safety requirements.

Develops and implements training programs for users operating machinery and equipment.

Ensures adherence to safety standards and fosters a strong safety culture in a high‑risk equipment environment.

Serves as the primary technical authority for troubleshooting complex machining and fabrication challenges.

Lab Strategy, Safety, and Quality Assurance

Leads development of machine shop capabilities aligned with Institute needs (robotics, aerospace testing, prototyping).

Establishes quality standards and ensures fabricated components meet engineering specifications and tolerances.

Oversees safety compliance, audits, and adherence to TAMUS and regulatory requirements.

Coordinates with tenants, engineers, and researchers to support project needs and technical requirements.

Evaluates equipment upgrades, new technologies, and lab enhancements.

Ensures machine shop readiness to support a multi‑tenant, high‑demand environment.

What We Need

• Bachelor’s degree in applicable field or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Six years of related experience

What is Helpful

• Degree in engineering, Manufacturing, Machining, or related field
• Experience in machine shop operations, fabrication, or laboratory management
• Demonstrated experience with CNC machining, fabrication equipment, and precision tools
• Experience supervising staff and training users on technical equipment
• Experience supporting prototype development, robotics, aerospace, or research environments
• Proficiency in CAD/CAM, GD&T, and precision measurement systems
• Experience supporting multi‑user or shared lab/shop environments

Other Requirements

• This position is security sensitive and requires United States Citizenship only.
• Work Location: Houston, TX.

About The Texas A&M Space Institute

The Texas A&M University Space Institute will advance commercial, government, military, and academic research and development partnerships in support of national and international space endeavors. With a $200 million investment from the State of Texas, a 400,000 square foot facility is under construction at NASA‑Johnson Space Center's Exploration Park. This unique facility, featuring the world's largest indoor climate‑controlled landscapes to emulate surface operations on the moon and Mars, is expected to open in the fall of 2026 and will support space system research, testing, training, and workforce development initiatives. Texas A&M Engineering provides an outstanding benefits package including but not limited to:

• Competitive medical insurance benefits through Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas and Prescription coverage by Express Scripts.
• Options for Vision, Dental, Life, and Long‑Term Disability insurance.
• A defined benefit retirement plan with the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) with 8.25% employer contribution.
• Additional Voluntary Retirement Programs: Tax Deferred Account 403(b) and a Deferred Compensation Program 457(b).
• Flexible spending account options for medical and childcare expenses.
• Generous paid time off with holidays, vacation and sick leave.
• Robust free training access through LinkedIn Learning plus professional development opportunities.
• Tuition assistance and Educational release time to further your academic pursuits.
• Access to Engineer Your Wellness programs that provide opportunities for employees to engage in health and fitness.
• Wellness release time offered to employees to promote work/life balance.

Employment Eligibility Verification

If hired, you will be required to complete the federal Employment Eligibility Verification I-9 form. You will be required to present acceptable and original documents to prove your identity and authorization to work in the United States. Documents need to be presented no later than the third day of employment. Failure to do so will result in delay of start date. All positions are security‑sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution’s verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer. The Texas A&M University System is one of the largest systems of higher education in the nation, with a statewide network of twelve universities, eight state agencies, a comprehensive health science center, Texas A&M‑Fort Worth and Texas A&M‑RELLIS. The A&M System is committed to providing an educational and work environment that is conducive to the personal and professional development of each employee. Each member institution provides equal opportunity and access to all students, employees and prospective employees. The Texas A&M System is an Equal Opportunity/ Veterans/ Disability Employer.