Manufacturing Operations Manager

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 ResponsibilitiesOversee daily machining operations across multiple facilities, including CNC, conventional, and specialty machiningManage production schedules, labor planning, and workflow to meet customer delivery timelinesLead and mentor shop supervisors, machinists, and engineers to achieve safety, quality, and productivity goalsActively participate in continuous improvement initiatives, root cause investigations, and equipment utilization planningMonitor machine capacity, job status, and personnel performance; identify and resolve bottlenecksCollaborate with engineering, planning, quality, and maintenance teams to ensure process stability and product excellenceCommunicate operational priorities across all shifts and align resources accordinglyFoster a culture of continuous improvement, accountability, and high performanceTrack and report key performance metrics (KPI) to senior leadership and contribute to strategic planning QualificationsTechnical 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 skills Why Join ASTBe 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 roles Pay 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.