CNC Machine Shop Manager

Navis Consulting; Southampton; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Navis Consulting is seeking an experienced CNC Machine Shop Manager to lead an integrated machining and manufacturing function in a high‑performance, precision engineering environment. This hands‑on leadership role requires strong CNC programming, capability in 3‑axis and 5‑axis machining, and a track record of driving productivity and quality improvements.

You will own end‑to‑end machining operations, oversee strategy, capacity planning, supplier management and continuous improvement, while

Qualifications

• Proven experience managing machining or manufacturing teams.
• Strong CNC programming and machining knowledge.
• Experience machining titanium and other exotic metals.
• Hands-on approach to technical problem solving.
• Experience developing manufacturing strategies and production systems.
• Track record of improving lead times, quality, yield and efficiency.
• Ability to work confidently with engineering, procurement and senior management.
• Experience with CAD, manual machining and welding would be advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Oversee end-to-end machining function for 3-axis, 5-axis and manual work.
• Lead manufacturing strategy, capacity planning and scalability.
• Direct CNC programming, production engineering and CAD activities.
• Ensure quality assurance, inspection and compliance.
• Manage procurement, raw materials and stock control.
• Oversee outsourced manufacturing and supplier management.
• Drive continuous improvement, tooling and resource optimisation.
• Plan investment and develop manufacturing capability.
• Lead and develop the machining team and performance management.
• Provide technical leadership on complex components and systems.
• Support operation of a 6-metre-travel 5-axis machining centre.

Skills

CNC programming

Leadership

Machining knowledge

Quality improvement

Tools

CAD

CAM software

Inspection tools (CMM)

Job description

Navis Consulting are looking for an experienced CNC Machine Shop Manager to lead an integrated machining and manufacturing function within a high-performance, precision-driven engineering environment.

This is a hands-on leadership role, ideal for someone with a background in marine, aerospace, motorsport technology, or another advanced manufacturing sector who is ready to take ownership of a full machine shop and help shape future manufacturing strategy.

The role

You’ll be responsible for the end-to-end machining function, including:

• CNC 3-axis, 5-axis and manual machining
• High-precision metallic and composite components
• Manufacturing strategy, capacity planning and scalability
• CNC programming, production engineering and CAD
• Quality assurance, inspection and technical compliance
• Procurement, raw materials and stock control
• Outsourced manufacturing and supplier management
• Continuous improvement, tooling and resource optimisation
• Investment planning and manufacturing capability development
• Team leadership, skills development and performance management
• Technical leadership on complex components and mechanical systems
• Supporting the operation of a 6-metre-travel 5-axis machining centre

About you

We’re looking for someone with:

• Proven experience managing machining or manufacturing teams
• Strong CNC programming and machining knowledge
• Experience machining titanium and other exotic metals
• A strong understanding of precision manufacturing processes
• Experience with 3-axis and 5-axis CNC machining
• A hands-on approach to technical problem solving
• Experience developing manufacturing strategies and production systems
• A track record of improving lead times, quality, yield and efficiency
• Strong commercial and operational awareness
• The ability to work confidently with engineering, procurement and senior management
• A passion for developing high-performance teams and a culture of technical excellence
• Experience with CAD, manual machining and welding would also be advantageous.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Lead Engineer, Production Manager, Manufacturing Manager or Senior Machinist looking to step into a broader leadership position and play a key role in shaping a growing, high-performance manufacturing operation.