Sr. Manager, Production - Machine Shop

Sierra Space Careers : Dare to Dream

We honor those that are not afraid to dream big dreams, those that tenaciously chase their dreams even when others say it cannot be done, those that achieve big dreams and change everything. Those are Dreams Worth Chasing.

At Sierra Space we envision a future where humanity lives and works in space, on moons, and on distant planets. Our mission isn’t restricted to the few, instead we see a future where all people can choose to live, work, discover and explore beyond our planet. Our company is building a platform in space to benefit life on Earth and together we will alter the course of humanity.

We have a bold mission. We are a bold company. Together, we are an extraordinary team.

About the Role

As the Sr Manager, Production - Machine Shop, you will play a critical role in building and leading a high-performing machine shop team, driving operational excellence, and scaling machining processes to support aerospace-grade component production. You will be responsible for ensuring efficiency, quality, and compliance while fostering a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement. Your leadership will drive Sierra Space’s mission to deliver world-class manufacturing solutions for space exploration.

Key Responsibilities

Lead safety initiatives, enforce PPE requirements, and ensure compliance with company safety policies and standards.

Organize monthly safety meetings and identify risks in work setups, providing necessary training to mitigate hazards.

Manage daily job lineups, pre-plan jobs, and assign machinists to tasks based on skill and availability.

Oversee work order routers to ensure they contain sufficient information for production and quality assurance.

Drive operational efficiency and ensure machining processes meet aggressive production rate targets.

Build, mentor, and develop a world-class team of machinists, programmers, and technicians.

Conduct regular performance evaluations, set quarterly goals, and provide training to align teams with company objectives.

Foster a culture of technical excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Maintain a clean, organized shop environment by managing tools, equipment, and materials.

Enforce cleanup rules and ensure all parts are properly labeled and documented during manufacturing.

Challenge engineering designs to optimize manufacturability while collaborating with engineering, supply chain, and quality teams.

Implement innovative machining technologies, including advanced techniques such as 5-axis machining, swiss machining, and automation.

Oversee machine maintenance requests and train machinists on preventative maintenance.

Provide ongoing training in machine use, quality control, and company goals.

Manage inspection reports, non-conformance reports (NCRs), and other critical documentation.

Regularly communicate progress and issues with project managers and other stakeholders.

About You

Our mission is driven by the unwavering passion to push the boundaries of what is possible. We seek those who Dare to Dream — to envision the extraordinary and pursue it relentlessly – to join us on this transformational journey.

We’re looking for dreamers who align with our values, vision and audacious goals – while also meeting the minimum qualifications below. The preferred qualifications are a bonus, not a requirement.

Minimum Qualifications :

Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent work experience.

5+ years of experience in machining and precision manufacturing, with at least 2 years in a leadership role.

Demonstrated expertise in CNC machining, multi-axis milling, and tight-tolerance manufacturing, particularly with aerospace-grade materials (e.g., titanium, Inconel, aluminum).

Proven track record in managing and optimizing high-performing machining centers, driving efficiency, throughput, and process reliability.

Strong leadership skills, with experience building and mentoring teams while fostering a culture of accountability and technical excellence.

Proficiency in CAM software (e.g., Mastercam, NX), ERP / MES systems, and advanced production monitoring tools.

Preferred Qualifications :

Experience scaling aerospace machining operations, optimizing cycle times, and implementing automation technologies.

Familiarity with aerospace manufacturing standards such as AS9100, NADCAP, and ITAR compliance.

Background in additive manufacturing or advanced material processing for next-generation aerospace components.

Expertise in lean manufacturing, Six Sigma methodologies, and statistical process control (SPC).

Advanced degree in a relevant field.

A seasoned machinist with deep expertise in both CNC and manual machining, combined with strong leadership and management skills.

Proven ability to train, develop, and lead teams while maintaining a well-organized, safety-compliant shop environment.

Hands-on problem solver who excels at optimizing manufacturing processes and driving operational efficiency.

Compensation

Pay Range : $147,455 - $202,757

Your actual base compensation will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related knowledge and skills, education, experience, internal equity and market competitiveness.

IMPORTANT NOTICE :

To conform to U.S. Government international trade regulations, applicant must be a U.S. Citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce.

Elevate Your Career

At Sierra Space, we are committed to your personal and professional development. We empower you to make profound and meaningful contributions and foster a vibrant culture of collaboration, where teamwork ignites breakthrough innovations.

Sierra Space offers annual incentive pay based upon performance that is commensurate with the level of the position.

We also offer a generous benefit package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, 401(k) with 150% match up to 8%, life insurance, 3 weeks paid time off, and more.

At Sierra Space we are at the very doorstep of unlocking the future and the work in front of us is hard, but it is truly important and meaningful. Achieving our mission requires dedication, relentless pursuit of a dream and an unwavering passion for pushing the boundaries to accomplish what others might believe to be impossible. We seek those who too, Dare to Dream and will join us in a pursuit to achieve the extraordinary.

Sierra Space Corporation is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you need special assistance or a reasonable accommodation related to applying for employment with Sierra Space or at any stage of the recruitment process, please .