Freeform
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 .
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 .