Aerospace Manufacturing Manager – Precision CNC Operations

This is more than a plant leadership role — it’s an opportunity for an experienced operations leader to make a lasting impact in aerospace manufacturing. As our Aerospace Manufacturing Manager, you’ll lead precision CNC machining operations, guide a talented team, and help shape the systems and culture that define how we deliver world-class quality. If you thrive in a hands-on, fast-paced environment and love solving problems through people and process, we’d love to meet you.

• Location :
• Matthews, North Carolina — just outside Charlotte, NC. Enjoy proximity to the city, beaches, and mountains, all within a 2–3 hour drive.

Compensation : $120,000 – $165,000 base salary, depending on experience, plus performance incentive eligibility and relocation assistance.

• About Northeast Tool

Northeast Tool & Manufacturing is a trusted partner in precision aerospace machining — delivering mission-critical components to top-tier customers with unmatched quality and reliability. Our growth is built on craftsmanship, innovation, and a deep commitment to our people.

We’re an award-winning, employee-centric organization that believes our company only grows when our employees do. With structured training, individual development plans, and clear paths for advancement, this is a place where you can build both product and career.

• Position Overview

Reporting to the COO, the Aerospace Manufacturing Manager will lead our precision machining department in a 24 / 5 operation. This role is ideal for a strong manufacturing leader who brings experience in aerospace, defense, or precision machining — and who’s ready to take the next step toward general management.

You’ll lead supervisors, cell leads, and planners, driving accountability to the production schedule and partnering closely with Engineering, Quality, and Supply Chain to ensure safety, quality, and delivery performance.

If you lead through process, believe in structured problem-solving, and can motivate people toward daily excellence, this is your opportunity to leave your mark.

• What You’ll Do

Lead day-to-day CNC machining operations in a high-mix, low-volume aerospace environment.

Drive on-time production and shipping performance in alignment with revenue, margin, and delivery goals.

Develop and monitor plant-level KPIs (Safety, Quality, Delivery, and Cost).

Review capacity and production data to align resources with the Master Production Schedule (MPS).

Conduct regular floor walks (Gemba) to identify issues and implement corrective actions in partnership with Engineering, Quality, and Purchasing.

Champion 5S and FOD controls to maintain world-class standards of cleanliness and product integrity.

Support root cause and corrective action processes for manufacturing issues and non-conformances.

Manage and develop supervisors, leads, and CNC operators, fostering accountability and cross-training.

Conduct performance reviews and ensure consistent feedback and goal alignment across the team.

Partner cross-functionally to improve lead times, reduce downtime, and optimize scheduling.

Drive standard work implementation and continuous improvement to enhance safety, quality, productivity, and delivery.

• What We’re Looking For

Bachelor’s degree strongly preferred; equivalent technical, military, or progressive manufacturing leadership experience may be considered.

Minimum 5–7 years of manufacturing experience with at least 3 years in a leadership role (e.g., Supervisor, Value Stream Manager, or Production Manager).

Background in precision machining required; aerospace, defense, or other regulated industry (AS9100, ISO 9001, etc.) strongly preferred.

Strong understanding of production planning, scheduling, and cross-departmental coordination.

Ability to make confident, informed decisions quickly in a fast-paced environment.

Experience with Microsoft Office Suite and familiarity with ERP / MRP systems.

Working knowledge of GD&T (ASME Y14.5) and precision manufacturing principles.

Continuous improvement mindset; Six Sigma or Lean certification a plus (Green Belt or higher preferred).

• Even Better If You Have

Experience leading 5-axis milling and multi-axis turning operations.

Six Sigma Black Belt or Project Management (PMP) certification.

Prior experience supporting new product introduction (NPI) or process transitions.

Advanced GD&T or ASME Y14.5-2018 certification.

• Why Join Northeast Tool

We believe great products start with great people. Here’s what you’ll find here :

Competitive pay with performance-based incentive eligibility

Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance

401(k) with 4% company match (Traditional or Roth)

9 paid holidays — including your birthday

Relocation assistance

Tuition and education assistance

Dedicated on-site Nurse & Pharmacist for healthcare support

Free coffee, great people, and a team that truly has your back

We’re a company that believes in¨NBSP;hard work, continuous improvement, and genuine care for our people and customers. If you’re ready to grow, lead, and make a measurable impact, we want to hear from you.

• Next Step :
• Apply today to start the conversation!

You should be proficient in :

• Leadership / People Management
• Manufacturing Instruction (MI)
• Supervisory Experience
• Coaching and Mentoring Experience