Machine Shop Manager

In-Place Machining Co LLC•Milwaukee, WI

About The Position

The Machine Shop Manager leads the Milwaukee machine shop, guiding its future development while remaining connected to daily shop-floor work. The role is responsible for safe, high-quality, efficient operations; developing a skilled and accountable machining team; standardizing and improving manufacturing processes; managing tooling and inventory; and improving productivity, quality, and on-time delivery. The manager supports machinists with technical troubleshooting and process improvements, balances production priorities, and collaborates with engineering, quality, and operations teams.

Requirements

7+ years of precision machining experience.
Previous leadership, supervisory, or team lead experience.
Strong CNC machining background, including milling and turning.
Experience reading blueprints and applying GD&T principles.
Deep understanding of tooling, workholding, setups, and tight-tolerance manufacturing.
Strong troubleshooting and root-cause problem-solving skills.
Ability to lead effectively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Nice To Haves

Experience with horizontal machining centers.
FANUC control experience.
G-code programming knowledge.
CAM programming experience, preferably Mastercam.
Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement experience.

Responsibilities

Lead daily machine shop operations with a focus on safety, quality, and efficiency.
Oversee CNC milling, turning, horizontal machining centers, and manual machining activities.
Support machinists with troubleshooting, problem-solving, and process improvements.
Balance production priorities while maintaining a positive and accountable team culture.
Promote a clean, organized, and professional shop environment.
Standardize manufacturing processes and work instructions.
Improve setup efficiency, workflow, and machine utilization.
Optimize tooling, feeds, speeds, and cycle times.
Reduce downtime, scrap, and process variation.
Implement Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.
Drive measurable productivity and operational excellence improvements.
Coach, mentor, and develop machinists at all skill levels.
Build technical capabilities throughout the department.
Conduct performance coaching and training initiatives.
Foster accountability, teamwork, and pride in workmanship.
Lead by example through a consistent shop-floor presence.
Manage production schedules, labor resources, and workflow priorities.
Drive on-time delivery and first-pass quality performance.
Coordinate closely with engineering, quality, and operations teams.
Monitor key performance indicators and implement corrective actions when necessary.
Ensure customer requirements and expectations are consistently met.
Develop and maintain effective tooling strategies.
Ensure tooling availability and cost control.
Improve inventory accuracy and organization.
Support equipment maintenance and asset management initiatives.