CNC Milling Department Manager (Waldenburg, MI)

Job Title: CNC Milling Department Manager

Location: Waldenburg, MI

Salary: $125,000 – $140,000 per year (plus eligible benefits)

Overview We are seeking an experienced CNC Milling Department Manager to lead our aerospace tooling operations in Waldenburg, MI. The ideal candidate will bring deep aerospace tooling expertise, advanced multi-axis machining leadership, and a proven track record in managing teams and processes to deliver high-precision parts on schedule.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the CNC milling department, ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality production of aerospace tooling components.
• Develop and implement production plans, scheduling, and capacity utilization to meet delivery deadlines.
• Oversee five-axis milling operations, programming, setup, and cycle optimization to maximize throughput and minimize scrap.
• Review and ensure NC/CNC programs (CNC code verification, toolpath optimization, and process documentation) meet engineering and quality requirements.
• Maintain and improve machining processes, fixturing, tooling, and process controls for repeatable results.
• Manage a team of machinists, setters, and operators; mentor, train, and develop staff; set performance goals and conduct regular performance reviews.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Quality, and Procurement to ensure part tolerances, GD&T, and quality standards are consistently met.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives (lean, TPM, 5S, Kaizen) to reduce lead times, improve quality, and lower costs.
• Ensure compliance with aerospace industry standards, EASA/FAA/AS9100 requirements as applicable, and internal safety policies.
• Maintain accurate production metrics, reports, and documentation for audits and continuous improvement.

Required Qualifications

• Aerospace tooling experience required.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience managing CNC milling operations (prefer a background in five-axis milling).
• Strong work experience with five-axis machining centers, tool management, and multi-axis programming.
• Proven NC/CNC experience, including setup, operation, and optimization.
• Demonstrated leadership and people-management skills with at least 5 years in a supervisory/managerial role.
• Solid understanding of GD&T, metrology, and inspection processes.
• Knowledge of aerospace quality standards and regulatory requirements (AS9100 experience a plus).
• Strong problem-solving, planning, and communication skills.
• Ability to read complex blueprints, process documents, and engineering specifications.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in a manufacturing/engineering discipline is preferred but not required if matched by significant hands-on leadership experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in aerospace tooling or related tooling manufacturing environments.
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems, CAM software for five-axis programming, and tool management systems.
• Lean or Six Sigma exposure and project experience.

What We Offer

• Competitive starting salary within the specified range ($125k–$140k) based on experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package (health, dental, vision, retirement, paid time off).
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
• A collaborative, safety-focused work environment in a growing aerospace tooling operation.

Application Instructions

• Please submit your resume detailing your relevant experience, particularly with aerospace tooling, five-axis milling, and leadership roles.
• Include a brief cover note highlighting your approach to managing a CNC milling department and any relevant continuous improvement initiatives you’ve led.
• Applications from qualified candidates in or near Waldenburg, MI are encouraged.

If you have any questions about the role or the company, feel free to reach out. We look forward to hearing how your expertise can help us elevate our aerospace tooling capabilities.