Aerospace Machining & Shop Operations Lead

Texas A&M Engineering Experiment Station (TEES); Houston (TX); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Texas A&M University Space Institute in Houston seeks a Machine Shop Manager to lead its machine shop and fabrication lab, oversee equipment, safety, and staff, and work with tenants and researchers on complex projects.

This hands-on leadership role combines management with direct machining, training, and process improvement to support robotics and aerospace initiatives in a high-demand, multi-user environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or related field or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Six years of related experience.
• Experience supervising staff and training users on technical equipment.
• Experience supporting prototype development, robotics, aerospace, or research environments.
• Proficiency in CAD/CAM, GD&T, and precision measurement systems.

Responsibilities

• Oversees and directs daily operations of the machine shop and fabrication laboratory.
• Leads the production of specialized components and custom parts to support tenant and Institute projects.
• Consults with tenants, researchers, and staff to determine fabrication requirements, project feasibility, materials, and manufacturing methods to ensure timely completion of projects.
• Prepares estimates for labor, materials, equipment usage, and project timelines for fabrication services.
• Maintains, evaluates, and ensures proper operation of complex equipment (e.g., CNC mills, lathes, welding systems, precision instrumentation).
• Establishes and maintains standard operating procedures (SOPs) for machining, fabrication, and equipment usage.
• Manages inventory of materials, tools, and supplies, and coordinates procurement activities.
• Coordinates complex builds, prototypes, and fabrication projects requiring advanced technical judgment.
• Supervises machine shop personnel, including Machine Shop Coordinator, and assigns work priorities.
• Provides hands-on technical instruction and mentorship on machining, shop tools, fabrication processes, and equipment operation.
• Oversees and approves safe use of equipment by staff, tenants, and authorized users in accordance with established training and safety requirements.
• Develops and implements training programs for users operating machinery and equipment.
• Ensures adherence to safety standards and fosters a strong safety culture in a high-risk equipment environment.
• Serves as the primary technical authority for troubleshooting complex machining and fabrication challenges.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering or related field

Tools

CAD/CAM

GD&T

Precision measurement systems

Job description

Texas A&M University Space Institute in Houston seeks a Machine Shop Manager to lead its machine shop and fabrication lab, oversee equipment, safety, and staff, and work with tenants and researchers on complex projects.

This hands-on leadership role combines management with direct machining, training, and process improvement to support robotics and aerospace initiatives in a high-demand, multi-user environment.