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Mgr, Machine Shop - Payload Processing Facility,…
- Amazon (Merritt Island, FL)
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Description
Project Kuiper is Amazon’s low Earth orbit satellite broadband network. Its mission is to deliver fast, reliable internet to customers and communities around the world, and we’ve designed the system with the capacity, flexibility, and performance to serve a wide range of customers, from individual households to schools, hospitals, businesses, government agencies, and other organizations operating in locations without reliable connectivity.
Export Control Requirement: Due to applicable export control laws and regulations, candidates must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum.
We are seeking an experienced Machine Shop Manager to lead and develop a team of skilled machinists in a dynamic, multi-capability manufacturing environment. This role will oversee the operation of advanced CNC equipment including 3-axis and 5-axis mills, lathes, waterjet cutting systems, and manual machine tools. The ideal candidate will combine technical expertise with strong leadership abilities to drive operational excellence, maintain quality standards, and foster team development. This position is critical to ensuring the shop's capability to respond quickly and effectively to changing manufacturing needs while maintaining the highest standards of quality and efficiency.
The ideal candidate is comfortable in a highly technical setting and leads collaboration with other departments to reach the best solution to any problem and is able to technically challenge assumptions and requirements of these departments, such as manufacturability, material selection, and post-processing.
Military and Veterans Encouraged to Apply: We highly value the leadership, problem-solving, and teamwork skills developed in the military. Candidates with military backgrounds are encouraged to bring their unique perspectives and skills to help us achieve our mission.
Key job responsibilities
• Lead and mentor a team of machinists, fostering skill development and cross-training
• Develop and implement manufacturing processes, quality control procedures, and safety protocols
• Manage equipment maintenance schedules, tooling inventory, and shop supplies to ensure continuous operations
• Collaborate with engineering and quality teams to optimize manufacturing processes and ensure product specifications are met
• Oversee the programming and operation of CNC equipment, including 3-axis and 5-axis mills, lathes, and waterjet systems
• Coordinate with procurement to maintain adequate inventory levels of materials and consumables
• Implement and maintain quality control processes, including inspection procedures and documentation
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency and reduce waste
• Manage hiring, training, and development of machine shop personnel
• Create and maintain production schedules to meet delivery commitments
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and maintain a safe working environment
• Work with leadership to develop and manage department budget, including capital equipment planning
• Interface with various departments to coordinate project requirements and timelines
•Shift schedule will vary, depending on production/launch schedules
•Must be willing and able to perform extended travel up to 25% annually, either domestically or internationally as business needs demand
A day in the life
The Machine Shop Manager will split their time between hands-on technical oversight and administrative responsibilities. They will begin each day reviewing production schedules, conducting team meetings, and addressing any immediate operational challenges. Throughout the day, they will move between supervising complex machining operations, reviewing quality metrics, meeting with internal customers to discuss project requirements, and working on continuous improvement initiatives. They will be involved in both strategic planning for future capabilities and solving day-to-day technical challenges. The role requires someone who can seamlessly transition between shop floor operations and management responsibilities, maintaining a focus on both immediate production needs and long-term department development.
The ideal candidate will have demonstrated experience in advanced machining operations, with particular expertise in at least one area of CNC programming and operation. They should be comfortable making quick decisions in a fast-paced environment while maintaining high standards of quality and safety. We're looking for someone who can build and lead a team of skilled machinists while fostering an environment of continuous learning and improvement.
We want individuals who are ready for this challenge and want to reach beyond what is possible today.
About the team
Here at Amazon, we embrace our differences. We are committed to furthering our culture of inclusion. Amazon has ten employee-led affinity groups, reaching 40,000 employees in over 190 chapters globally. We have innovative benefit offerings, and host annual and ongoing learning experiences.
At Amazon, our mission is to be the most customer-centric company on Earth. To get there, we need exceptionally talented, bright and driven people. We're dedicated to supporting new team members. Our team has a broad mix of experience levels and Amazon tenures, and we’re building an environment that celebrates knowledge sharing and mentorship.
Basic Qualifications
• Minimum 5 years of experience in a machine shop environment with CNC programming and operations
• Minimum 3 years of supervisory experience leading technical teams
• Demonstrated experience with CNC programming and operation (G-code, M-code)
• Working knowledge of GD&T and blueprint reading
• Experience with quality control processes and inspection techniques
• Proven track record of implementing and maintaining safety protocols
• Proficiency with CAD/CAM software
• Strong computer skills including Microsoft Office Suite
•Ability to obtain and maintain a US Passport
•Ability and willingness to comply with the Government of French Guiana which mandates that travelers receive vaccinations for yellow fever and COVID-19
•Ability to pass Kennedy Space Center background checks
Preferred Qualifications
• Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related technical field OR equivalent combination of technical education and hands-on machining experience
• 7+ years of machine shop experience with diverse equipment types
• Experience with 5-axis CNC programming and operation
• Certified in specific machining disciplines (e.g., NIMS certifications)
• Experience with waterjet cutting operations
• Background in aerospace or defense manufacturing
• Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or higher)
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles
• Experience managing department budgets and capital equipment planning
• Track record of implementing continuous improvement initiatives
• Experience with ISO 9001 quality management systems
• Project management certification (PMP or equivalent)
• Experience with additive manufacturing technologies
•Excellent communication and leadership skills
•Able to stand for long periods of time and perform repetitive assembly operation
•Able to climb and down ladders, work in tight spaces, bending, grasping, sitting, pulling, pushing, stooping, and stretching may be required to perform the functions of this position
•Able to lift at least 25 lbs. unassisted
Amazon is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected veteran status, disability, or other legally protected status.
Our inclusive culture empowers Amazonians to deliver the best results for our customers. If you have a disability and need a workplace accommodation or adjustment during the application and hiring process, including support for the interview or onboarding process, please visit https://amazon.jobs/content/en/how-we-hire/accommodations for more information. If the country/region you’re applying in isn’t listed, please contact your Recruiting Partner.
Our compensation reflects the cost of labor across several US geographic markets. The base pay for this position ranges from $136,000/year in our lowest geographic market up to $212,800/year in our highest geographic market. Pay is based on a number of factors including market location and may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Amazon is a total compensation company. Dependent on the position offered, equity, sign-on payments, and other forms of compensation may be provided as part of a total compensation package, in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits. For more information, please visit https://www.aboutamazon.com/workplace/employee-benefits . This position will remain posted until filled. Applicants should apply via our internal or external career site.
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