Manufacturing Manager II, Machining

At Zone 5 Technologies, we're redefining what's possible in unmanned aircraft systems. Our team of engineers and innovators is developing cutting-edge autonomous solutions that push the boundaries of UAS technology - solving complex challenges that matter.
We're building the future of UAS capabilities, and we're looking for exceptional talent to join us. If you're driven by hard problems, energized by rapid innovation, and ready to make an impact on next-generation flight systems, you belong here.
The Manufacturing Manager II, Machining owns the end-to-end performance of the machine shop, including safety, quality, compliance, delivery, and cost. This role is responsible for translating company strategy into machining execution, building scalable manufacturing systems, and developing the people, processes, and infrastructure required to support current and future production demands.
 
Unlike a Production Supervisor who focuses on daily shift execution, this role is accountable for department strategy, capacity planning, organizational design, and long-term operational excellence.
 
This role owns how work is performed—people, processes, training, and execution systems—while partnering closely with Value Stream Managers who define what must be built and when.
 
This role involves working closely with manufacturing managers, various engineering disciplines, production staff, and operations teams to support expected outcomes.
 
Scope of Responsibility
CNC milling and turning operations supporting prototype and/or production programs
Multi-cell, potentially multi-shift environment
Direct leadership of machinists/operators and leads/supervisors
Cross-functional ownership with:
Manufacturing Engineering
Quality / Metrology
Planning / Supply Chain
Maintenance / Facilities
 
Key Responsibilities:
Safety, Quality & Compliance (Foundational)
Own safety culture and compliance with all regulatory and internal requirements (AS9100/ISO, traceability, calibration discipline).
Ensure controlled execution of machining processes, in-process verification, and rapid containment and root cause when defects occur.
Drive first-pass yield, scrap reduction, and escape prevention through systemic improvements.
Delivery & Capacity Ownership
Own on-time delivery performance for all machined components.
Build and maintain capacity models (machine hours, labor hours, queue times, constraints).
Translate demand into:
Staffing plans
Overtime strategies
Machine loading and sequencing
Recovery plans
Strategic Planning & Execution
Translate company goals into a machining roadmap (yield, lead time, cost per part, automation maturity).
Develop quarterly and annual plans for:
Headcount
Machine investments
Tooling/fixturing strategies
Layout and flow improvements
Lead departmental transformation initiatives (new machines, automation, ERP/MES rollout, new value streams).
Technical & Process Leadership
Ensure robust machining fundamentals:
NC program readiness and revision control
setup documentation and standard work
tooling life management and standard libraries
fixture repeatability
Partner with Manufacturing Engineering on:
DFM improvements
cycle-time reduction
routings and process optimization
People & Culture
Hire, develop, and retain high-performing machinists and leads.
Build training pathways and skill progression.
Create a culture of ownership, accountability, and continuous improvement.
 
Qualifications:
Experience
Bachelor’s required, Master’s (MBA/MS) preferred.
8–12+ years manufacturing experience.
5+ years in management.
Proven ownership of multi-cell or site-level machining operations.
Strategic Capability
Defines machining strategy.
Builds multi-year capacity and automation roadmaps.
Owns capital investment decisions and ROI.
Executive Partnership
Regular interface with Directors/VPs/COO.
Trusted to represent machining in business planning.
Leads large-scale transformation initiatives.
Pay range for this role
$165,000—$185,000 USD
What's in it for you:
Benefits: 
Competitive total compensation package 
Comprehensive benefit package options include medical, dental, vision, life, and more.
401k with company-match 
4 weeks of paid time off each year
12 annual company holidays
Why Join Zone 5 Technologies?
Innovative Environment: Work on cutting-edge technology that is shaping the future of defense and aerospace.
Collaborative Culture: Join a team of passionate professionals dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
Career Growth: Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
If you are passionate about unmanned aircraft technology and want to be a part of a dynamic and growing company, we would love to hear from you. Apply today and join the Zone 5 Technologies team! 
In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.
Zone 5 Technologies is a federal contractor and participates in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. As required by law, we will verify the identity and employment authorization of all new employees using the E-Verify system. Learn more about your rights and responsibilities under E-Verify: