Machine Shop Supervisor Jobs
Machine Shop Supervisor jobs are open across aerospace, automotive, defense, and industrial manufacturing, from lead machinist stepping into supervision to senior shop floor managers, with specializations in CNC machining, precision fabrication, and quality control. See the openings below and apply to the ones that match your experience.
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Karman Space & Defense is a leader in the rapid design, development, and production of critical, next-generation system solutions that align with the U.S. Department of War and its allies' core mission priorities, and meet the accelerating demand for access to space. Building on nearly 50 years of success, we deliver Payload & Protection Systems, Aero/Hydrodynamic Interstage Systems, and Propulsion & Launch Systems to more than 80 prime contractors supporting over 130 space and defense programs.
This role is part of our Tactical Missiles and Integrated Defense Systems business, which designs and develops integrated missile and defense systems that support critical missions across air, land, and sea. We combine comprehensive analysis, engineering, and program execution capabilities to deliver mission-tailored solutions that reduce lead times, lower costs, and simplify complex multi-vendor supply chains. Backed by decades of flight-proven and fielded performance, we design and build mission-critical technologies including launch systems, propulsion, payload integration solutions, UAV components, missile subsystems, and Safe & Arm systems.
As a Machine Shop Quality Inspector, you will help ensure precision-machined components and assemblies meet engineering specifications, dimensional requirements, and established quality standards. You will perform inspections throughout the manufacturing process, operate Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs) and portable measuring arms, and work closely with machinists, Quality, and Engineering teams to identify discrepancies, maintain accurate inspection records, and support consistent product quality.
Responsibilities
- Performs first-piece, in-process, final, and receiving inspections of machined components and assemblies to verify compliance with engineering and quality requirements.
- Interprets engineering drawings, specifications, work instructions, and Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) to determine appropriate inspection methods and acceptance criteria.
- Sets up and operates CMMs and portable measuring arms using approved inspection routines, including part fixturing, alignment, probe qualification, and measurement-result review.
- Conducts dimensional inspections using calipers, micrometers, height and bore gauges, indicators, pin and thread gauges, surface plates, optical comparators, and other precision measuring instruments.
- Evaluates components for dimensional accuracy, burrs, edge breaks, surface finish, damage, identification, and other specified quality characteristics.
- Completes inspection documentation and records measurement results in CMM, Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), and electronic quality management systems.
- Supports Aerospace First Article Inspection Requirement (AS9102) activities and maintains accurate part identification, inspection records, and traceability.
- Identifies, documents, and controls nonconforming material and verifies reworked components as assigned.
- Verifies inspection equipment is clean, suitable for use, and within required calibration status.
- Communicates inspection results, discrepancies, and technical questions to machinists, supervisors, Quality, and Engineering personnel.
Required Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Minimum of 1–2 years of experience operating Zeiss or Hexagon CMM equipment.
- Experience setting up and operating CMMs or portable measuring arms using approved inspection routines.
- Experience inspecting machined components using engineering drawings, GD&T, and precision measuring instruments.
- Ability to interpret mechanical drawings, specifications, work instructions, and dimensional tolerances.
- Basic understanding of machining processes, materials, surface finishes, and common manufacturing defects.
- Working knowledge of inspection equipment care, calibration requirements, part cleanliness, and measurement practices.
- Ability to use computers, CMM software, ERP systems, and electronic inspection applications.
- Strong mathematical, organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
- Must be a U.S. citizen and be able to obtain and maintain a U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) Secret security clearance.
Preferred Qualifications
- Two or more years of experience in dimensional inspection, machining, or related metrology activities.
- Experience working within an AS9100 or comparable quality management system.
- Technical or vocational training in machining, metrology, or quality inspection.
- Experience using Epicor ERP software.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, and reach for extended periods.
- Ability to handle inspection tools, gauges, probes, fixtures, and components and safely position parts for inspection.
- Visual acuity and manual dexterity sufficient to interpret engineering drawings and perform detailed dimensional inspections.
- Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) and comply with established shop safety procedures.
- The essential functions of this position must be performed with or without reasonable accommodation.
Work Environment
- Work is performed in machine-shop, inspection, and metrology areas. The environment may include noise, moving equipment, metal chips, cutting fluids, sharp edges, and varying temperatures. Required safety procedures and personal protective equipment must be followed.
Travel Requirements
- Occasional travel may be required for training or business needs.
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with company match
- Paid time off
- Health Savings Account (HSA) with company contribution
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
- Company-paid life and AD&D insurance
- Short- and long-term disability coverage
- Tuition reimbursement
Karman Space and Defense is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
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Karman Space & Defense is a leader in the rapid design, development, and production of critical, next-generation system solutions that align with the U.S. Department of War and its allies' core mission priorities, and meet the accelerating demand for access to space. Building on nearly 50 years of success, we deliver Payload & Protection Systems, Aero/Hydrodynamic Interstage Systems, and Propulsion & Launch Systems to more than 80 prime contractors supporting over 130 space and defense programs.
This role is part of our Tactical Missiles and Integrated Defense Systems business, which designs and develops integrated missile and defense systems that support critical missions across air, land, and sea. We combine comprehensive analysis, engineering, and program execution capabilities to deliver mission-tailored solutions that reduce lead times, lower costs, and simplify complex multi-vendor supply chains. Backed by decades of flight-proven and fielded performance, we design and build mission-critical technologies including launch systems, propulsion, payload integration solutions, UAV components, missile subsystems, and Safe & Arm systems.
As a Machine Shop Quality Inspector, you will help ensure precision-machined components and assemblies meet engineering specifications, dimensional requirements, and established quality standards. You will perform inspections throughout the manufacturing process, operate Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs) and portable measuring arms, and work closely with machinists, Quality, and Engineering teams to identify discrepancies, maintain accurate inspection records, and support consistent product quality.
Responsibilities
- Performs first-piece, in-process, final, and receiving inspections of machined components and assemblies to verify compliance with engineering and quality requirements.
- Interprets engineering drawings, specifications, work instructions, and Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) to determine appropriate inspection methods and acceptance criteria.
- Sets up and operates CMMs and portable measuring arms using approved inspection routines, including part fixturing, alignment, probe qualification, and measurement-result review.
- Conducts dimensional inspections using calipers, micrometers, height and bore gauges, indicators, pin and thread gauges, surface plates, optical comparators, and other precision measuring instruments.
- Evaluates components for dimensional accuracy, burrs, edge breaks, surface finish, damage, identification, and other specified quality characteristics.
- Completes inspection documentation and records measurement results in CMM, Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), and electronic quality management systems.
- Supports Aerospace First Article Inspection Requirement (AS9102) activities and maintains accurate part identification, inspection records, and traceability.
- Identifies, documents, and controls nonconforming material and verifies reworked components as assigned.
- Verifies inspection equipment is clean, suitable for use, and within required calibration status.
- Communicates inspection results, discrepancies, and technical questions to machinists, supervisors, Quality, and Engineering personnel.
Required Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Minimum of 1–2 years of experience operating Zeiss or Hexagon CMM equipment.
- Experience setting up and operating CMMs or portable measuring arms using approved inspection routines.
- Experience inspecting machined components using engineering drawings, GD&T, and precision measuring instruments.
- Ability to interpret mechanical drawings, specifications, work instructions, and dimensional tolerances.
- Basic understanding of machining processes, materials, surface finishes, and common manufacturing defects.
- Working knowledge of inspection equipment care, calibration requirements, part cleanliness, and measurement practices.
- Ability to use computers, CMM software, ERP systems, and electronic inspection applications.
- Strong mathematical, organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
- Must be a U.S. citizen and be able to obtain and maintain a U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) Secret security clearance.
Preferred Qualifications
- Two or more years of experience in dimensional inspection, machining, or related metrology activities.
- Experience working within an AS9100 or comparable quality management system.
- Technical or vocational training in machining, metrology, or quality inspection.
- Experience using Epicor ERP software.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, and reach for extended periods.
- Ability to handle inspection tools, gauges, probes, fixtures, and components and safely position parts for inspection.
- Visual acuity and manual dexterity sufficient to interpret engineering drawings and perform detailed dimensional inspections.
- Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) and comply with established shop safety procedures.
- The essential functions of this position must be performed with or without reasonable accommodation.
Work Environment
- Work is performed in machine-shop, inspection, and metrology areas. The environment may include noise, moving equipment, metal chips, cutting fluids, sharp edges, and varying temperatures. Required safety procedures and personal protective equipment must be followed.
Travel Requirements
- Occasional travel may be required for training or business needs.
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with company match
- Paid time off
- Health Savings Account (HSA) with company contribution
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
- Company-paid life and AD&D insurance
- Short- and long-term disability coverage
- Tuition reimbursement
Karman Space and Defense is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
View our Privacy Policy
Machine Shop Supervisor Jobs by Experience Level
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Find Machine Shop Supervisor JobsMachine Shop Supervisor Job Market
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Manufacturing
- Staffing & Recruiting
- Consulting & Professional Services
What Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in machine shop supervisor jobs.
- Minimum 3-5 years of machining or CNC operation experience in a manufacturing environment
- Proven supervisory experience managing production teams on a shop floor
- Proficiency reading and interpreting engineering drawings, blueprints, and GD&T
- Familiarity with Lean manufacturing principles and 5S methodology
- Experience with quality management systems such as ISO 9001 or AS9100
- High school diploma or GED required, with vocational training or associate degree preferred
Tips for Your Machine Shop Supervisor Job Search
Quantify output and scrap reduction on your resume
Machine shop supervisors who list measurable results, like cycle time improvements or scrap rate reductions, stand out from candidates who only list job duties. Pull numbers from your production logs or quality reports before you apply.
List your CNC platforms and CAM software
Hiring managers scan for specific equipment experience, such as Fanuc, Mazak, or Haas controllers, and CAM tools like Mastercam or Fusion 360. Name them in your resume skills section so automated screening doesn't pass you over.
Apply early to roles that fit
Migrate Mate lists machine shop supervisor openings from across the United States in one place, so you can find roles that match and apply directly to each listing.
Filter postings by contract type and shift requirements
Many machine shop supervisor roles require weekend or rotating shifts, and some are contract-to-hire. Read the schedule and employment-type details before applying so you're not surprised after an offer is extended.
Prepare a walk-the-floor story for your interview
Interviewers for supervisory shop floor roles almost always ask how you handle a machine going down mid-shift. Prepare a specific example that covers how you reassigned crew, communicated with scheduling, and kept output on track.
Negotiate shift differentials and tool budgets, not just base pay
Total compensation for machine shop supervisors often includes shift premiums, PPE allowances, and certification reimbursements. Ask about these components during the offer stage so you're comparing the full package, not just the hourly rate.
Machine Shop Supervisor Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies are hiring the most machine shop supervisors?
The companies hiring the most machine shop supervisors right now include Karman Space & Defense, Thorlabs, and Topeka Foundry & Iron Works, with the largest share of openings in California, Texas, and Ohio, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Aerospace, defense, and heavy industrial manufacturers consistently account for the highest volume of postings.
How many machine shop supervisor jobs are remote?
About 0% of machine shop supervisor openings are fully remote or hybrid as of November 2026, reflecting the hands-on nature of the role. The sub-areas most likely to offer partial remote flexibility are production planning, scheduling coordination, and quality documentation review rather than direct floor supervision.
How do you become a machine shop supervisor?
Start by building several years of hands-on machining experience, ideally across CNC milling, turning, or grinding operations. Take on informal leadership, like training newer machinists or leading a shift, to demonstrate readiness. Earning a certification such as a NIMS credential strengthens your profile, and completing coursework in manufacturing management or Lean principles helps you compete for posted supervisor roles.
Can you get a machine shop supervisor job with limited supervisory experience?
Yes, candidates who have strong machining or CNC skills and can point to any informal leadership, such as training coworkers, running a shift in a lead machinist role, or coordinating a small cell, are regularly considered for entry-level supervisor openings. Highlighting those moments on your resume and being direct about your readiness to take on accountability in your cover letter helps close the experience gap.
What does the machine shop supervisor interview process look like?
Most employers start with a phone screen focused on your machining background and team size you've managed. A technical or behavioral interview follows, covering how you handle production disruptions, enforce safety protocols, and manage performance issues. Many manufacturers include a shop floor walk-through where you're asked to assess a live setup or explain how you'd approach a scheduling conflict during a high-volume run.
Where can I find and apply to machine shop supervisor jobs?
You can find and apply to machine shop supervisor jobs on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from across the United States. Search for roles that match your machining background, shift preferences, and industry focus, then apply directly to each listing that fits.
See All 134+ Machine Shop Supervisor Jobs
Find roles that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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