Job Description
About Us
Advanced Structural Technologies (AST) is a leading manufacturer of forged, spun, and precision-machined components serving the aerospace, defense, and automotive industries. With over 25 years of experience and a 250,000-sq-ft facility in Oxnard, California, we combine engineering innovation, advanced manufacturing, and quality excellence to deliver mission-critical products with unmatched precision and reliability.
Position Overview
We are seeking a hands-on, growth-oriented Machining Operations Manager to oversee day-to-day operations across our multi-facility machining departments.
This role is ideal for an experienced manufacturing leader who thrives in a fast-paced, high-mix, low-volume environment and is looking to advance toward a Director-level leadership role. You’ll manage supervisors, machinists, and engineers — driving performance in quality, throughput, and efficiency, while ensuring alignment with company goals and customer expectations.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee daily machining operations across multiple facilities, including CNC, conventional, and specialty machining
- Manage production schedules, labor planning, and workflow to meet customer delivery timelines
- Lead and mentor shop supervisors, machinists, and engineers to achieve safety, quality, and productivity goals
- Actively participate in continuous improvement initiatives, root cause investigations, and equipment utilization planning
- Monitor machine capacity, job status, and personnel performance; identify and resolve bottlenecks
- Collaborate with engineering, planning, quality, and maintenance teams to ensure process stability and product excellence
- Communicate operational priorities across all shifts and align resources accordingly
- Foster a culture of continuous improvement, accountability, and high performance
- Track and report key performance metrics (KPI) to senior leadership and contribute to strategic planning
Qualifications
Technical or engineering degree preferred; additional education or certifications in manufacturing, operations, or management a plusStrong leadership presence with a confident, grounded, and collaborative styleHands-on experience with CNC mills, lathes, and manual machining processesProven ability to manage complex operations spanning multiple facilities and departmentsSkilled in production planning, workflow optimization, and real-time problem-solvingKnowledge of Lean Manufacturing, KPIs, and ERP systemsExcellent communication and people management skillsWhy Join AST
Be part of a fast-growing, vertically integrated manufacturer with a strong reputation in aerospace and defenseWork directly with executive leadership and technical teams to drive company-wide impactCompetitive pay and full benefits package, including :Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance401(k) with Company MatchCompany-Paid Life & Disability InsurancePaid Holidays, Vacation, and Sick LeaveOpportunities for advancement into senior leadership rolesPay Range : $150,000 – $195,000 per year (based on experience and qualifications)
Schedule : Monday–Friday | Full-Time | ~45–55 hours per week (flexible for production needs)
Lead the Future of Precision Manufacturing
If you’re a motivated operations leader ready to elevate a world-class machining organization — join AST and help shape the next generation of advanced manufacturing.