Machine Shop Manager

Headhunters; Gqeberha; On-site; ZAR 500 000 - 700 000; Full time

Job summary

A well-established manufacturing operation is seeking an experienced Machine Shop Manager to lead and optimise CNC and conventional machining operations. This key leadership role requires a trade-qualified Machinist or Toolmaker with proven supervisory experience, strong hands-on knowledge of machining processes, and a commitment to safety and quality. Responsibilities include daily management of shop operations, technical leadership, driving continuous improvement, and ensuring compliance with regulations. Candidates should possess strong leadership and organisational skills.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a machine shop supervisory or management role.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and specifications.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage daily machine shop operations, including CNC and conventional machining.
• Provide hands-on technical guidance and troubleshooting support on the shop floor.
• Drive initiatives to reduce scrap, downtime, and operational costs.
• Lead, mentor, and develop machinists, toolmakers, and apprentices.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and quality standards.

Skills

CNC machining

Leadership

Problem-solving

Communication

Organisational skills

Education

Trade-qualified Machinist, Toolmaker, or relevant Engineering qualification

Job description

Our client, a well-established manufacturing operation, is seeking to employ an experienced Machine Shop Manager to lead and optimise CNC and conventional machining operations.

This is a key leadership role suited to a technically strong, hands-on manager with a passion for machining excellence and continuous improvement.

Requirements

• Trade-qualified Machinist, Toolmaker, or relevant Engineering qualification.
• Proven experience in a machine shop supervisory or management role.
• Strong hands-on knowledge of CNC machining and manufacturing processes.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and specifications.
• Strong leadership, people management, and mentoring skills.
• Solid problem-solving and decision-making ability.
• Excellent communication and organisational skills.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

Responsibilities (include but are not limited to)

1. Workshop & Production Management:
   • Lead and manage daily machine shop operations, including CNC and conventional machining.
   • Plan and schedule work to meet production targets and delivery deadlines.
   • Ensure efficient use of machines, tooling, and labour resources.
2. Technical Leadership & Support:
   • Provide hands-on technical guidance and troubleshooting support on the shop floor.
   • Support optimisation of machining processes, tooling, and cycle times.
   • Ensure machining activities meet engineering, quality, and customer specifications.
3. Continuous Improvement:
   • Drive initiatives to reduce scrap, downtime, and operational costs.
   • Implement process improvements aligned with lean manufacturing principles.
   • Monitor key performance indicators and take corrective action where required.
4. People Management & Development:
   • Lead, mentor, and develop machinists, toolmakers, and apprentices.
   • Promote a high-performance, safety-focused team culture.
   • Ensure skills development and training needs are identified and addressed.
5. Quality, Safety & Compliance:
   • Ensure compliance with safety regulations, quality standards, and internal procedures.
   • Maintain a clean, organised, and safe working environment.
   • Work closely with Engineering, Quality, and Production teams to ensure alignment.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you do not receive feedback within two weeks of applying, please consider your application unsuccessful.