Manufacturing Engineering Manager

Primus Aerospace; Reisterstown (MD); On-site; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

PTO and paid holidays

Medical, dental and vision insurance

401(k)

Long-term disability

Short-term disability

Job summary

Primus Aerospace is seeking a Manufacturing Engineering Manager to lead engineering, programming and maintenance teams, developing and optimizing CNC and manual processes to meet quality, cost, and delivery targets across machining, stamping, laser cutting, and painting.

You will drive NPI, continuous improvement, and cost reductions, ensure AS9100 compliance, supervise engineers and programmers, and mentor machinists while maintaining robust process documentation and audits.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent experience.
• 7+ years CNC machining experience with 3+ years in a leadership role.
• Strong background in multi-axis CNC programming (Mastercam, NX, or Fusion 360).
• Proven experience with process improvement and cost reduction initiatives.
• Knowledge of AS9100 and aerospace manufacturing quality requirements.
• Proficiency in CAD/CAM software and understanding of GD&T principles.
• Lean Six Sigma certification or similar continuous improvement training.
• Familiarity with ERP/MES systems for manufacturing process management.
• Excellent problem-solving, leadership, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee CNC program creation/validation for mills, lathes, and laser cutting machines.
• Develop standardized setups, tooling, and work instructions to reduce setup times.
• Collaborate with estimating and production to ensure manufacturability of products.
• Lead new product introductions (NPI) with robust CNC and secondary processes.
• Drive continuous improvement to increase operator-to-machine ratios and reduce cycle times.
• Analyze bottlenecks and implement automation and lean manufacturing principles.
• Partner with maintenance and production to maximize equipment utilization and minimize downtime.
• Monitor KPIs such as cycle time, scrap rate, and OEE; report findings.

Skills

CNC programming

Process improvement

Leadership

GD&T

CAD/CAM

ERP/MES

Lean Six Sigma

Problem solving

Communication

AS9100 knowledge

Stamping

Laser cutting

Painting processes

Education

Bachelor's degree in manufacturing or mechanical or industrial engineering (or related field)

Tools

Mastercam

NX

Fusion 360

Job description

About Primus Aerospace

Primus Aerospace is a precision manufacturer specializing in complex machined components and assemblies for the aerospace, defense, and space sectors. We are a private equity-backed company focused on delivering exceptional quality and innovation to mission‑critical applications. Our teams take pride in craftsmanship, efficiency, and continuous improvement—values that define our role in supporting the world’s most demanding customers.

Position Summary

The Manufacturing Engineering Manager is responsible for leading the engineering, programming and maintenance teams in developing, optimizing, and maintaining CNC and manual manufacturing processes that meet quality, cost, and delivery requirements. This role will drive process improvement, new product introduction, and cost reduction initiatives across machining, stamping, laser cutting, and painting operations. The manager will ensure compliance with AS9100 standards while supporting continuous improvement to enhance overall plant efficiency and competitiveness.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and participate in the creation, validation, and optimization of CNC programs for mills, lathes, and laser cutting machines.
• Develop standardized setups, tooling, and work instructions to ensure repeatability and reduce setup times.
• Collaborate with estimating and production to ensure manufacturability of new and existing products.
• Lead new product introductions (NPI) by developing robust, cost‑effective CNC and secondary processes.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives aimed at increasing operator‑to‑machine ratios and reducing machining cycle times.
• Analyze process bottlenecks and implement automation, toolpath optimization, and lean manufacturing principles.
• Partner with maintenance and production teams to maximize equipment utilization and minimize downtime.
• Monitor and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) such as cycle time, scrap rate, and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).
• Serve as the primary technical resource for CNC and process‑related troubleshooting.
• Lead root cause analysis and corrective actions for quality and process issues.
• Provide training and support to machinists and operators to ensure process control and adherence to standards.
• Supervise manufacturing engineers, CNC programmers, and technical support personnel.
• Establish clear objectives, priorities, and accountability within the team.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and safety across all operations.
• Ensure all manufacturing processes comply with AS9100 and customer requirements.
• Maintain accurate process documentation, setup sheets, and job travelers.
• Support internal and external audits with thorough technical documentation and process traceability.

Qualifications And Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in CNC machining environments, including 3+ years in a leadership role.
• Strong background in multi‑axis CNC programming (e.g., Mastercam, NX, or Fusion 360).
• Proven experience with process improvement and cost reduction initiatives.
• Knowledge of AS9100 and aerospace manufacturing quality requirements.
• Proficiency in CAD/CAM software and understanding of GD&T principles.
• Excellent problem‑solving, leadership, and communication skills.
• Experience with stamping and laser cutting operations.
• Exposure to manual or automated painting processes.
• Familiarity with ERP/MES systems for manufacturing process management.
• Lean Six Sigma certification or similar continuous improvement training.

Important Notice

To adhere to U.S. Government international trade regulations, applicant must be a U.S. Citizen.

Our work environment is fast‑paced and professional while providing continued growth fostered by our commitment to teamwork. We offer comprehensive benefits including PTO, paid holidays, medical, dental and vision insurance, 401(k), long‑term and short‑term disability.

At Primus Aerospace, we are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment that supports, respects, and celebrates all individuals.