Plant ManagerPlant Manager – CNC Machining Operations
We’re hiring a seasoned CNC Plant Manager to run day-to-day operations at a well-respected, family-owned job shop. We’re looking for someone who thrives in a hands-on environment and can manage a team while getting into the technical details of G-code programming, custom workflows, and scheduling.
If you’ve led in a machine shop, know your way around CNC controls, and still like rolling up your sleeves to solve problems on the floor, this role is built for you.
What You'll Take Charge Of:
- Direct daily production in a custom machining environment
- Manage the full shop schedule to keep jobs moving and customers happy
- Provide technical guidance in CNC programming (G-Code expertise required)
- Serve as a key decision-maker for workflow, quality, and throughput
- Work cross-functionally with quoting, estimating, suppliers, and customers
- Troubleshoot complex machining issues and guide real-time fixes
- Monitor shop metrics, drive process improvements, and uphold quality standards
- Train and support a team of about 15 skilled machinists and operators
- Maintain records and production data in ERP and internal systems
Your Background:
- BS degree in engineering, manufacturing, or a related field — or 5+ years of CNC leadership in a machining environment
- Strong knowledge of CNC machining and G-Code programming
- Proven ability to lead and manage teams in a job shop setting
- Skilled in blueprint reading, part analysis, and technical troubleshooting
- Comfortable managing schedules and juggling priorities across projects
- Proficient with ERP systems, Microsoft Excel, and production documentation
- Known for leading by example and building trust with your team
Freqently Asked Questions
Overseeing a CNC machining plant demands deep technical knowledge of g-code programming and hands-on troubleshooting, unlike general manufacturing roles. In Hinsdale’s precision-driven environment, a Plant Manager must balance machine-level details with team leadership to maintain quality and workflow efficiency.
Employers in Illinois often prioritize candidates with proven expertise in CNC programming and blueprint reading. While formal certifications like Lean Six Sigma help, hands-on experience with ERP systems and production scheduling in machining environments is critical for Plant Manager roles.
Plant Managers in Chicago’s custom machining sector can advance to regional operations leadership or specialize in process engineering. With the city’s manufacturing diversity, growth often involves mastering workflow optimization, team development, and cross-department collaboration.
Hinsdale’s niche manufacturing market offers fewer but highly specialized Plant Manager roles, making competition intense for candidates with CNC and leadership expertise. Larger hubs like Chicago have more openings but also attract broader applicant pools, increasing competition differently.
Plant Managers in Hinsdale with CNC machining leadership usually earn between $90,000 and $120,000 annually. Salaries reflect local manufacturing demands, technical skill depth, and team management responsibilities, with bonuses often tied to production efficiency and quality metrics.
At Alan N. Daum And Associates, a family-owned ethos encourages Plant Managers to engage directly with hands-on problem solving and team mentorship. This environment values technical involvement alongside leadership, promoting trust and long-term collaboration within the machining team.
Managing a specialized CNC job shop here demands rapid decision-making on workflow and quality while nurturing a skilled team of machinists. The Plant Manager must juggle production deadlines with hands-on technical guidance, balancing operational efficiency with employee development.
Hinsdale’s skilled labor pool allows Alan N. Daum And Associates to expect their Plant Manager to lead a competent team, focusing on refining CNC processes and scheduling. The manager’s role includes continuous training and adapting workflows to leverage local machinists’ expertise.
Daily hurdles include resolving machining errors through g-code adjustments, keeping production on schedule, and coordinating between quoting, suppliers, and customers. A Plant Manager must also track shop metrics closely to identify improvement areas in quality and throughput.
Proficiency in g-code programming stands out as essential, enabling immediate corrections to machining errors. Coupled with strong blueprint interpretation and ERP system skills, these abilities empower the Plant Manager to troubleshoot swiftly and maintain seamless shop floor operations.
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