HEAD OF MANUFACTURING (MACHINING)

Company: Freeform
Location: Hawthorne
Posted on: January 1, 2026

Job Description:

Head of Manufacturing (Machining) Hawthorne, CA $150,000 – $250,000/year Stock Options Freeform Technologies Lead the Future of Advanced Manufacturing. Freeform is transforming how the world manufactures metal parts — deploying AI-driven, software-defined, autonomous 3D printing factories that bring the scalability of software to physical production. Our proprietary technology combines real-time controls, advanced sensing, and machine learning to deliver flawless, high-performance metal components at record speed and scale. As our Head of Manufacturing (Machining) , you’ll own the post-print machining operation end-to-end — leading the people, processes, and precision required to deliver world-class machined parts at scale. This is a hands-on leadership role at the forefront of advanced manufacturing, blending operational excellence with deep technical execution. About the Role You’ll set the vision and direction for machining at Freeform — developing strategies to expand capacity, drive efficiency, and ensure flawless quality. You’ll work side-by-side with engineers, machinists, and programmers to solve complex technical challenges, improve throughput, and deliver precision components that meet the toughest aerospace and defense standards. Your leadership will help define how autonomous metal manufacturing scales globally. What You’ll Do Own all aspects of machining operations, including CNC programming, setup, operation, inspection, and finishing Lead and grow a high-performing team of machinists, programmers, and manufacturing engineers Oversee day-to-day shop operations and long-term scaling initiatives Drive throughput and efficiency using data, inspection feedback, and continuous improvement principles Optimize utilization of 5-axis DMG Mori machining centers , leveraging automation and on-machine probing Define machining strategies and standards for precision post-processing of 3D-printed parts Partner with engineering to improve print designs for easier and faster machining Manage capital equipment planning, shop layout, and expansion projects Define and track key performance metrics (throughput, quality, cost, delivery) Ensure a culture of safety, quality, and technical excellence across the manufacturing organization What You Bring Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Industrial Engineering (or equivalent experience) 7 years of CNC machining experience, including leadership of machining operations Proven ability to scale teams and processes in a high-mix, high-precision environment Expertise in CNC milling (programming, tooling, fixturing, inspection) Strong operational mindset with the ability to balance near-term execution and long-term vision Nice to Have: 10 years in machining/manufacturing, across prototype and production settings Experience machining nickel alloys, titanium, and stainless steels Experience with DMG Mori 5-axis machines and Siemens controls Knowledge of metal additive post-machining or casting/forging processes Familiarity with CMMs, GD&T, and inspection automation ERP/MRP systems and machine shop scheduling experience Experience in facility build-outs, capital planning, and equipment commissioning Why You’ll Love Working Here At Freeform, every team member is a shareholder in our success. You’ll lead one of the most advanced machining operations in the world — combining autonomy, additive manufacturing, and precision CNC machining to make innovation move as fast as ideas do. Benefits & Perks Significant stock option packages (pre-IPO) 100% employer-paid Medical, Dental & Vision insurance Traditional & Roth 401(k) ? Paid vacation, sick leave, and company holidays Generous paid parental leave ? Free daily catered lunch & dinner stocked kitchenette Casual dress & flexible hours Team events, growth opportunities, and hands-on leadership environment Location Freeform’s 35,000 sq. ft. facility in Hawthorne, CA is a state-of-the-art manufacturing hub for R&D, machining, and production — located in the heart of Los Angeles’ fast-growing tech corridor near the 405, 105, and 110 freeways. Compensation $150,000 – $250,000/year , depending on experience, technical expertise, and leadership scope. Exceptional candidates with demonstrated success in scaling machining operations will be considered at the upper end of the range. Join Us Lead a world-class team that’s redefining how high-precision metal parts are made — from Earth to orbit .

Keywords: Freeform, Compton , HEAD OF MANUFACTURING (MACHINING), Engineering , Hawthorne, California