Engineering Manager for CNC Machine Shop (Aerospace / Defense)

Job Description

Job Description

Join a Team That Machines the Future

We are a high-performance aerospace manufacturing company located in Tempe, Arizona, specializing in complex 5-axis precision machining for the world's leading aerospace and defense OEMs. As a trusted Tier 1 supplier, we partner directly with major Prime contractors to deliver flight-critical hardware where precision, quality, and execution are non-negotiable.

We're looking for a highly skilled Manufacturing Engineer / CNC Programmer who thrives in a fast-paced New Product Introduction (NPI) environment and has the technical expertise to transform engineering designs into world-class machined components.

This is not a production-only programming position. You'll play a key role in launching new aerospace programs, optimizing manufacturing processes, solving complex machining challenges, and collaborating with engineering, quality, and customers to deliver exceptional results.

What You'll Do

• Develop and optimize complex CNC programs for 5-axis machining centers using Mastercam.
• Lead manufacturing process development for New Product Introduction (NPI) programs from concept through production.
• Review engineering models, drawings, and GD&T requirements to develop robust machining strategies.
• Design tooling, fixtures, and work holding solutions to maximize quality and efficiency.
• Create setup sheets, tooling documentation, process instructions, and manufacturing work packages.
• Support first article inspections (FAI), PPAP, validation builds, and production launches.
• Troubleshoot machining, tooling, and process issues to improve cycle time, quality, and repeatability.
• Collaborate with Design Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, and customers throughout product development.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on cost reduction, throughput, and process capability.
• Ensure compliance with AS9100, customer specifications, and aerospace quality standards.
• Provide technical leadership and mentoring to machinists and manufacturing personnel.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 5+ years of hands-on CNC machining experience with complex 5-axis machining centers.
• 5+ years of CNC programming experience using Mastercam.
• Strong New Product Introduction (NPI) or Manufacturing Engineering experience.
• Proficient with SolidWorks and interpreting 3D CAD models.
• Extensive knowledge of aerospace machining practices and precision manufacturing.
• Strong understanding of GD&T, blueprint reading, and inspection methodologies.
• Experience developing manufacturing processes for tight-tolerance machined components.
• Proven ability to optimize tooling, feeds, speeds, work holding, and machining strategies.
• Experience supporting first article inspections and production launches.
• Excellent troubleshooting and root cause analysis skills.

Preferred Experience

• Aerospace or defense manufacturing experience.
• Experience supporting Tier 1 aerospace OEM suppliers.
• Direct experience working with major aerospace Prime contractors.
• Familiarity with AS9100 and aerospace quality systems.
• Knowledge of multi-axis machining, high-speed machining, and complex fixture design.
• Experience with ERP/MES systems and digital manufacturing documentation.

What Makes You Successful

• You think like both an engineer and a machinist.
• You enjoy solving complex manufacturing challenges.
• You take ownership of projects from print to production.
• You are detail-oriented without losing sight of production efficiency.
• You communicate effectively across engineering, quality, and operations.
• You thrive in a collaborative, fast-moving aerospace environment where every part matters.

Why Join Us?

• Work on cutting-edge aerospace and defense programs.
• Direct exposure to industry-leading OEMs and Prime contractors.
• Modern 5-axis machining technology and advanced manufacturing equipment.
• Opportunity to influence manufacturing strategy and process development.
• Competitive compensation based on experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Career growth in a rapidly expanding precision manufacturing organization.

If you're passionate about precision machining, advanced manufacturing, and launching complex aerospace products from concept to production, we'd like to hear from you.

Apply today and help build the next generation of aerospace innovation.

Manufacturing excellence starts from within. Our teams collaborate and share knowledge across our facilities. We thrive through continual learning and mentoring. From apprenticeship to leadership, our people are proud of the important work we do.

Company Description

Manufacturing excellence starts from within. Our teams collaborate and share knowledge across our facilities. We thrive through continual learning and mentoring. From apprenticeship to leadership, our people are proud of the important work we do.