Machine Shop Manager

Machine Shop ManagerLocation - 41 Research Dr. Hampton, VA 23666Employment Type - Full-TimeWork Schedule - (4) 10-hour work schedule, Monday - ThursdayThe Machine Shop Manager is responsible for leading all machine shop operations in support of a high demand manufacturing environment serving the defense industry. This role ensures safe, efficient, and high-quality production while supporting operational scalability, workforce development, and continuous improvement initiatives across the organization.The Machine Shop Manager partners closely with Executive Leadership, Production Planning, Quality Assurance, Weld Engineering, Human Resources, Purchasing, Shipping & Receiving, and other cross functional departments to drive operational performance, improve workflow efficiency, and maintain production excellence aligned with customer, regulatory, and contractual requirements.Job DescriptionThe Machine Shop Manager serves as a key operational leader responsible for overseeing the daily performance, productivity, and continuous improvement of Advex Corporation's Machine Shop operations. This position maintains full operational ownership of the Machine Shop and supports manufacturing efforts tied to mission critical components for submarines, aircraft carriers, and other defense related programs.The role is responsible for developing scalable production processes, maintaining production flow, supporting first time quality, and fostering a culture of accountability, urgency, safety, and teamwork within a fast paced manufacturing environment. The Machine Shop Manager must be capable of aligning Executive Leadership direction with daily shop floor execution while effectively leading personnel through evolving technologies, operational demands, and continuous improvement initiatives.Key ResponsibilitiesMachine Shop OperationsLead and oversee daily machine shop operations including CNC machining, programming, assembly, welding support activities, and production workflowMaintain full operational ownership of the Machine ShopOversee Working Supervisors, CNC Programmers, Machinists, Assemblers, MS Welders, Helpers, and TraineesEnsure safe, efficient, and accurate production of mission critical components for defense related manufacturing programsSupport machining operations involving super alloys, stainless steel, copper nickel, nickel copper, nickel aluminum bronze, aluminum, high yield steels, castings, and weldmentsSupport multi axis CNC machining operations utilizing modern machining strategies and tooling technologiesEnsure accurate interpretation and execution of NAVSEA, GD Electric Boat, HII Newport News Shipbuilding, and other customer technical drawings, specifications, sketches, and manufacturing documentationSupport first time quality and on time delivery initiativesEstablish scalable workflows and operational controls to support company growth and production demandsProduction Planning and Workflow ManagementCoordinate production schedules, overtime, staffing, labor utilization, and workflow alongside Production PlanningManage employee scheduling, overtime coordination, and departmental labor allocationEnforce attendance expectations, time off scheduling processes, and proper labor charging practicesMonitor production bottlenecks and implement corrective actions to maintain operational continuityIdentify and resolve dynamic production roadblocks before and during manufacturing operationsDrive urgency and accountability to meet production deadlines and customer requirementsSupport scheduling and operational readiness for second shift growth initiativesQuality, Safety, and CompliancePromote and enforce a strong safety culture throughout all machine shop operationsEnsure compliance with company procedures, quality standards, customer requirements, and manufacturing specificationsSupport audit readiness and operational compliance within a regulated manufacturing environmentEnsure proper interpretation and execution of technical drawings, machining requirements, and GD&T standardsSupport continuous operational improvement while maintaining strict quality expectationsProcess Improvement and Manufacturing ExcellenceDrive continuous improvement initiatives throughout machine shop operationsSupport implementation of modern machining technologies, tooling strategies, and process enhancementsImprove workflow efficiency, machining accuracy, reporting visibility, and operational performanceSupport operational scalability and manufacturing optimization effortsLead teams through adaptation to evolving machine tool technologies and manufacturing processesTeam Leadership and Workforce DevelopmentLead, mentor, and develop machinists, programmers, welders, supervisors, and support personnelFoster a culture of accountability, teamwork, engagement, urgency, and continuous improvementProvide real time operational and technical feedback to machinists and programmersSupport interviewing, hiring, onboarding, and integration of machine shop personnel in partnership with Human ResourcesDevelop personnel capabilities surrounding modern machining technologies and operational expectationsSupport workforce growth initiatives including training and development of future operational leadershipOrganizational SupportCollaborate with Production Planning, Human Resources, Purchasing, Shipping & Receiving, Weld Engineering, Quality Assurance, and Executive Leadership to support operational continuityUtilize ERP systems including JobBOSS2 and Microsoft Office products for tracking, reporting, and operational managementMaintain clear communication with team members, customers, peers, and Executive LeadershipSupport strategic operational initiatives and departmental growth effortsPerform other duties as assignedQualifications & SkillsRequired QualificationsMinimum of ten (10) years of CNC machining experienceMinimum of two (2) years of leadership or management experience within a manufacturing environmentStrong familiarity with 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis machine toolsStrong understanding of GD&T and technical drawing interpretationExperience with machining sequence development and manufacturing efficiency strategiesExperience with NX Programming Software or similar programming platformsStrong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skillsAbility to operate effectively in a fast paced, highly dynamic manufacturing environmentAbility to lead teams by establishing operational vision, direction, and accountabilityPreferred QualificationsApprentice School GraduateNAVSEA or defense manufacturing experienceExperience supporting submarine, shipbuilding, or defense industry manufacturing operationsFamiliarity with Fanuc, Okuma OSP-300/500, Siemens, and Haas controlsExperience with large machine tools including gantry mills, horizontal boring mills, and EDM equipmentExperience supporting ERP systems including JobBOSS2 or similar manufacturing systemsAbility to support development or adjustment of post processors in collaboration with third party resourcesWhat Success Looks LikeSafe and efficient machine shop operationsHigh quality production with strong first time quality and on time delivery performanceImproved production flow and operational efficiencyStrong alignment between Executive Leadership goals and daily shop floor executionEngaged and accountable manufacturing workforceSuccessful development of machinist talent and operational leadership pipelineEffective adaptation to evolving manufacturing technologies and production demandsStrong communication and collaboration across departmentsContinuous operational improvement and workforce developmentSkillsStrong leadership and workforce development capabilitiesExcellent written and verbal communication skillsStrong analytical and problem-solving capabilitiesAbility to manage multiple priorities in a fast paced manufacturing environmentAbility to drive accountability while maintaining professional working relationshipsHigh attention to detail and organizational skillsEmployment Eligibility RequirementsMust be authorized to work in the United StatesAbility to obtain and maintain any required security clearances as applicableSuccessful completion of pre-employment screening requirementsPhysical DemandsAbility to walk, stand, and move throughout manufacturing facilities for extended periodsAbility to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE)Ability to occasionally lift and move materials in accordance with safety requirementsWork EnvironmentThis position operates within a manufacturing environment that may include exposure to noise, machinery, machining operations, metal fabrication processes, and varying temperatures. The role requires adherence to strict safety protocols and use of appropriate PPE at all times.BenefitsCompetitive PayFlexible SchedulingThree (3) Weeks Paid Vacation to Start, after completion of 60-day probationary periodSeven (7) Annual Paid Holidays401(k) Retirement Plan with Company MatchMedical, Dental, and Vision InsuranceLife Insurance (Employee, Spouse, and Child Offerings)Short-Term and Long-Term Disability CoverageHealth Savings Account (HSA)Tuition ReimbursementEmployee Assistance Program (EAP)Employee Referral Bonus ProgramWhy Advex CorporationAt Advex, every employee plays an integral role in manufacturing mission critical products in support of the defense industry and its suppliers. Our team is committed to delivering exceptional quality while fostering a safe, supportive, and inclusive work environment.Every day we strive to not only meet, but exceed, customer expectations through exceptional craftsmanship and service. We take pride in the quality of our work, reliability, and commitment to exceeding customer expectations. As a critical supplier for the Defense Industrial Base, we are seeking talented individuals to become part of our team and live these values. If you are looking for a stable environment that will value your knowledge and challenge your capabilities, Advex has a position for you. We offer competitive salaries, a comprehensive benefits package, and a collaborative company culture that values innovation, teamwork, and professional growth.At Advex, it's more than just a job, it's an opportunity to contribute to meaningful work that makes an impact.About Advex CorporationAdvex Corporation, based in Hampton, Virginia, is one of the premier metal fabrication companies on the East Coast. We specialize in machining, fabrication, and welding components for aircraft carriers, submarines, and other marine applications. Founded in 1969, Advex Corporation has built a legacy of excellence in manufacturing for the defense industry. Our commitment to quality, precision, and teamwork has made us a trusted partner in the defense industry for over 50 years.The Advex customer base includes manufacturing for HII Newport News Shipbuilding, General Dynamics Electric Boat, BAE Systems, NASA, and direct-to-Government Department of Defense (DoD) facilities.Advex divisions include Machining, Light Fabrication, Heavy Fabrication, Marine & Industrial, and Non-destructive Testing (NDT). Specialties include Weldment Manufacture with Precision Machining, Precision Welding and Fabrication, Heavy Manufacturing to Thirty Tons, Light Metal (Sheet Metal) Manufacturing, and Non-destructive Testing (NDT) utilizing these methods: Visual Testing (VT), Radiographic Testing (RT), Magnetic Particle Testing (MT), Liquid Penetrant Testing (PT), and Ultrasonic Testing (UT) available on-site and off-site.