Freelance Machine Shop Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Applied Medical is a new generation medical device company with a proven business model and commitment to innovation fueled by rapid business growth and expansion. Our company has been developing and manufacturing advanced surgical technologies for over 35 years and has earned a strong reputation for excellence in the healthcare field.  Our unique business model, combined with our dedication to delivering the highest quality products, enables team members to contribute in a larger capacity than is possible in typical positions.

The machine shop manager leads Applied Medical’s precision manufacturing operations by driving team performance, production execution, and operational efficiency within a fastpaced, regulated environment. This role is primarily responsible for managing people, processes, and production outcomes to ensure alignment with business objectives, quality standards, and delivery targets.

The machine shop manager partners closely with engineering, quality, and operations teams to support scalable manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives. This position aligns with manufacturing manager, operations manager, and machining manager roles within advanced manufacturing and medical device environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead daily manufacturing operations by managing team members, production schedules, staffing, and workflow execution across machining areas.
• Manage team performance by conducting evaluations, reviewing attendance, approving time records, and driving accountability.
• Collaborate with engineering, quality, and planning teams to ensure production schedules are achieved and operational goals are met.
• Resolve production issues by coordinating resources, removing constraints, and driving timely problem resolution.
• Monitor manufacturing metrics such as labor utilization, efficiency, scrap, and variances to identify improvement opportunities.
• Ensure compliance with Applied Medical quality systems, safety policies, and manufacturing procedures.
• Lead and mentor machinists, programmers, inspectors, and technical staff to support engagement, development, and retention.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives across processes, equipment, and workflows to enhance productivity and cost effectiveness.

Success in This Role Looks Like

• Production goals are consistently met through strong team leadership and effective operational execution.
• Team members are engaged, developed, and performing at a high level with clear expectations and accountability.
• Manufacturing efficiency improves through labor optimization, reduced scrap, and streamlined processes.
• Crossfunctional collaboration enables faster issue resolution and improved manufacturability.
• Quality and safety standards are maintained, ensuring compliance and operational stability.

This position requires the following skills and attributes:

• Brings five years or more of experience leading and leading and managing teams in a manufacturing or operations environment.
• Demonstrates strong people leadership skills including coaching, performance management, and team development.
• Applies experience managing production schedules, workforce planning, and operational performance metrics.
• Communicates effectively with crossfunctional teams and leadership to align priorities and resolve issues.
• Uses Microsoft Office applications including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
• Maintains the ability to work in a fastpaced environment while managing competing priorities.
• Holds a high school diploma or general education degree or equivalent experience.

The following skills and attributes are preferred:

• Brings experience working in a machine shop or precision manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrates familiarity with machining or production environments such as CNC machining, fabrication, or related manufacturing operations.
• Exposure to manufacturing technologies such as CNC machining (milling and turning), electrical discharge machining, grinding, progressive stamping, tool and die manufacturing, or mold making.
• Uses computeraided design tools such as SOLIDWORKS for collaboration with engineering teams.
• Demonstrates the ability to troubleshoot manufacturing processes, equipment, or tooling challenges.
• Holds certification from a technical training institution or related program.

• Competitive compensation range: $80000 - $100000 / year (California). 
• Comprehensive benefits package. 
• Training and mentorship opportunities. 
• On-campus wellness activities. 
• Education reimbursement program. 
• 401(k) program with discretionary employer match. 
• Generous vacation accrual and paid holiday schedule. 

Please note that the compensation range may be adjusted in the future, and bonus and incentive compensation plans may apply. 

Our total reward package reflects our commitment to employee growth and well-being, as we invest in your development and offer a range of benefits designed to enhance your career and life. 

All compensation and benefits are subject to plan documents and written agreements. 

Equal Opportunity Employer

Applied Medical is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), or sexual orientation, or any other status protected by federal, state or local laws in the locations where Applied Medical operates.

This position requires the following skills and attributes:

• Brings five years or more of experience leading and leading and managing teams in a manufacturing or operations environment.
• Demonstrates strong people leadership skills including coaching, performance management, and team development.
• Applies experience managing production schedules, workforce planning, and operational performance metrics.
• Communicates effectively with crossfunctional teams and leadership to align priorities and resolve issues.
• Uses Microsoft Office applications including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
• Maintains the ability to work in a fastpaced environment while managing competing priorities.
• Holds a high school diploma or general education degree or equivalent experience.