Manufacturing Project Manager - CNC Machining, Weldments & 3D CAD | Aerospace & Defense Programs
Salary: $80,000 - $120,000 per year
About the Company
We are a highly specialized manufacturing organization focused on producing large, complex, high-precision components and tooling for aerospace, defense, energy, and industrial applications. Our capabilities include advanced multi-axis CNC machining, welding and fabrication, reverse engineering, laser tracking metrology, and 3D modeling. The company supports mission-critical programs for leading aerospace and defense OEMs and suppliers, delivering large-scale tooling, weldments, precision machined components, and custom assemblies that require extremely tight tolerances and advanced manufacturing processes. This is an opportunity to join a technically advanced manufacturing environment supporting complex aerospace and industrial projects.
Position Overview
We are seeking a technically strong Project Manager to lead the execution of complex manufacturing and tooling projects from kickoff through final delivery. This role is responsible for coordinating cross-functional teams across engineering, machining, welding, quality, and purchasing to ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and in accordance with customer specifications. This is a highly technical, hands-on role requiring direct involvement with manufacturing processes, CAD models, technical drawings, and shop floor operations. The ideal candidate has a strong background in machining, fabrication, or manufacturing engineering and is comfortable working closely with machinists, welders, inspectors, and engineers in a fast-paced, build-to-print manufacturing environment.
Why join us?
- Work on advanced aerospace and defense manufacturing projects
- Highly technical, hands-on environment
- Exposure to complex, large-scale tooling and precision manufacturing
- Collaborative environment with experienced engineers and machinists
- Competitive compensation and growth opportunities
Project Execution & Ownership
- Manage full lifecycle of manufacturing projects, from order release through shipment and invoicing
- Develop and maintain detailed project schedules using ERP/MRP systems and project management tools
- Create and manage work orders, routers, and manufacturing plans within the GSS MRP system
- Track project progress, labor hours, material costs, and overall project financial performance
- Ensure projects meet schedule, quality, and margin objectives
Technical Coordination & Manufacturing Support
- Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, GD&T, and 3D models to support manufacturing execution
- Work directly with machinists, welders, inspectors, and production leadership to ensure technical clarity and manufacturability
- Review and refine rough 3D models to support manufacturing workflows and reduce reliance on engineering resources
- Help define manufacturing sequences, tolerances, inspection requirements, and build strategies
- Support troubleshooting and resolution of technical or manufacturing issues
CAD and 3D Modeling Support
- Utilize 3D CAD tools (SolidWorks or similar) to review, modify, and refine models for manufacturing readiness
- Assist in preparing manufacturing models from customer data, reverse engineering, or rough geometry
- Ensure models are usable for machining, fabrication, and inspection processes
- Bridge the gap between engineering intent and shop floor execution
Cross-Functional Team Leadership
- Coordinate daily with: Machinists and CNC programmers; Welding and fabrication teams; Quality and inspection teams; Purchasing and supply chain; Production and scheduling teams
- Facilitate project kickoff meetings and ongoing production coordination
- Ensure smooth progression of projects across departments
Customer Communication
- Serve as primary point of contact for customers throughout project execution
- Provide regular status updates, schedule tracking, and delivery coordination
- Support scope changes, technical clarifications, and customer requirements
ERP / MRP and Cost Management
- Utilize GSS MRP system to manage: Work orders; Material requirements; Labor tracking; Project cost tracking
- Support invoice preparation and project financial reconciliation
- Monitor project profitability and cost performance
Required Qualifications
- Technical Background
- 5+ years of experience in manufacturing, machining, fabrication, or mechanical engineering environments
- 2+ years of project management experience in manufacturing or industrial environments
- Strong experience interpreting technical drawings, blueprints, and GD&T
- Hands-on experience working with CNC machining, fabrication, or heavy manufacturing processes
- CAD / Modeling Experience (Strongly Preferred)
- Experience with SolidWorks or similar CAD software
- Ability to review, modify, and prepare 3D models for manufacturing
- Experience working with rough models, reverse engineering, or build-to-print environments preferred
- Systems and Software
- Experience working with ERP or MRP systems (GSS, Epicor, SAP, Oracle, JobBoss, etc.)
- Experience with Microsoft Project, Excel, and standard business software
- Preferred Background
- Aerospace or defense manufacturing
- CNC machining environments
- Tooling manufacturing
- Weldments and structural fabrication
- Job shop or build-to-print manufacturing
- Heavy industrial equipment manufacturing
Jobot is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We provide an inclusive work environment that celebrates diversity and all qualified candidates receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, age (40 and over), disability, military status, genetic information or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. Jobot also prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories. It is Jobot’s policy to comply with all applicable federal, state and local laws respecting consideration of unemployment status in making hiring decisions.