What are the responsibilities and job description for the CNC Machine Shop Manager – Aerospace Manufacturing position at Astrolab?
Application Deadline: 2 June 2026
Department: Facilities
Location: Hawthorne, California
Compensation: $133,000 - $147,000 / year
Venturi Astrolab, Inc. (Astrolab) is pioneering new ways to explore and operate on distant planetary bodies. We are singularly focused on designing, building, and operating a fleet of multi-purpose commercial planetary rovers to extend and enhance humanity’s presence in the solar system. We are seeking motivated, creative, and exceptional people to join our world-class team.
We are seeking an experienced and hands-on CNC Machine Shop Manager to lead the development, startup, and operational management of a new aerospace-focused CNC machining process line. This role is responsible for building and scaling a world-class machining operation that supports precision manufacturing of flight-critical hardware and complex aerospace components.
The ideal candidate combines strong leadership and operational management skills with deep technical expertise in CNC programming, machining processes, production systems, and aerospace quality standards. This individual will play a key role in facility setup, equipment selection, process development, workforce development, and operational excellence.
What you'll do:
CNC Process Line Development & Startup
- Lead the end-to-end establishment of a new CNC machining production line from concept through production readiness.
- Develop facility layout, workflow design, machine placement, and material flow strategies to maximize throughput and efficiency.
- Support capital equipment selection, procurement, installation, commissioning, and validation.
- Develop standard work, process flows, setup sheets, and production documentation.
- Establish machine qualification protocols (IQ/OQ/PQ) and first article readiness plans.
- Manage day-to-day operations of the CNC machine shop including safety, quality, delivery, and cost performance.
- Drive production planning and capacity management to meet aggressive aerospace program schedules.
- Develop KPI dashboards and monitor OEE, scrap, rework, cycle time, and machine utilization.
- Lead shift scheduling, labor planning, and staffing strategy.
- Provide direct technical leadership in CNC programming (3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis preferred).
- Optimize tool paths, cycle times, and cutting strategies for productivity and quality.
- Support CAM programming using NX CAM and Fusion 360.
- Troubleshoot machining issues including chatter, tolerance drift, tool wear, and fixturing challenges.
- Review and approve NC programs, setup documentation, and process improvements.
- Ensure compliance with AS9100, ISO 9001, and customer-specific aerospace requirements.
- Support first article inspection per AS9102.
- Develop robust process controls for critical and fracture-critical hardware.
- Partner with quality teams on NCR resolution, RCCA, and continuous improvement.
- Recruit, train, and mentor machinists, programmers, and manufacturing technicians.
- Build a high-performance culture focused on accountability, craftsmanship, and continuous improvement.
- Establish skill matrices and development plans.
- Implement Lean manufacturing and Six Sigma tools.
- Lead kaizen events and cost reduction initiatives.
- Drive automation opportunities including probing, tool monitoring, and lights-out machining.
- Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Technology, or equivalent experience.
- 8 years in CNC machining/manufacturing leadership, preferably in aerospace or defense.
- 3 years managing teams in a machine shop environment.
- Demonstrated success standing up or significantly scaling CNC operations.
- Strong hands-on CNC programming experience (required).
- Deep understanding of GD&T and blueprint interpretation.
- Experience with precision tolerances (< ±0.001") and exotic aerospace materials (Titanium, Inconel, Aluminum alloys, stainless steels).
- Strong knowledge of fixturing and tooling strategy.
- Experience with Mori Seiki, Wells Index & DMG MORI
- Experience with NX CAM and post processing.
- Experience implementing MES/ERP systems in manufacturing.
- Knowledge of automation/robotic cell integration.
- Lean or Six Sigma certification.
- Join a team of best-in-class engineers building the foundation of planetary surface exploration
- Equity ownership in the company
- Comprehensive health benefits, including medical, dental, vision, and mental health support
- 401(k) plan with company match
- Flexible PTO and parental leave
- Home office set up reimbursement
- Weekly lunch stipend, plus complimentary snacks and beverages on-site
- Once a month social hour on-site with food and drinks
Salary : $133,000 - $147,000