Senior Manufacturing Operations Specialist / Process Planner
About The Position
General Dynamics Mission Systems is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Manufacturing Operations Specialist / Process Planner to support CNC machining operations at its Cullman, Alabama facility. The role translates customer prints into efficient, repeatable manufacturing processes by analyzing drawings, specifications, and tolerances; breaking parts into logical machining operations; selecting appropriate machines; and defining operation sequences to help ensure quality, efficiency, and on-time delivery. The position works with programmers, machinists, quality personnel, and management to ensure manufacturability, address machining challenges, and improve processes. It also supports shop-floor troubleshooting and continuous improvement initiatives intended to reduce cycle time, scrap, and rework. The position is fully on-site. Applicants may be subject to a U.S. Government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. U.S. citizenship is required due to the nature of work performed at the facilities.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and relevant work experience, plus a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience; or a Master's degree.
- U.S. citizenship is required.
- Applicants selected may be subject to a U.S. Government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.
- Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks), ERP systems, and statistical analysis tools.
- Strong ability to read and interpret engineering prints and GD&T.
- Solid understanding of CNC machining processes and shop capabilities.
- Experience with CNC mills, lathes, and common machining operations.
- Practical knowledge of tolerances, materials, tooling, and workholding.
- Ability to plan efficient machining strategies based on real-world shop conditions.
- Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
- Effective communication skills for working with machinists and programmers.
Responsibilities
- Review and interpret customer prints, models, and related documentation.
- Identify print requirements, including dimensions, tolerances, GD&T, surface finish, materials, and special specifications.
- Break customer prints into manageable and logical machining operations.
- Determine the optimal sequence and order of operations.
- Select appropriate CNC machines and processes, including mills, lathes, multi-axis machining, and secondary operations.
- Define setup strategies, fixturing approaches, and inspection points.
- Collaborate with programmers, machinists, quality personnel, and management to ensure manufacturability.
- Identify potential machining challenges and recommend process improvements.
- Ensure processes meet customer quality, tolerance, and delivery requirements.
- Support shop-floor troubleshooting when issues arise.
- Assist with continuous improvement initiatives to reduce cycle time, scrap, and rework.
Benefits
- 401(k) matching
- Flexible schedules, including an optional 9/80 schedule with every other Friday off
- Flex time off
- Paid parental leave
- Healthcare benefits
- Health and wellness programs
- Employee resource and social groups
- Opportunities for continuous learning and development
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
