Head of Machining (Machine Shop, greensand castings)

Job Title: Head of Machining (Machine Shop)

Reports to:

Department:

Location:

Job Summary

The Head of Machining is responsible for the end-to-end management of the Machine Shop, ensuring that ferrous castings (Ductile/SG Iron and Gray Iron) are transformed into high-precision automotive components. This role involves strategic planning, overseeing high-volume production on CNC/HMC/VMC lines, maintaining IATF 16949 quality standards, and driving OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness) while managing a large technical workforce.

Key Responsibilities

1. Quality & Automotive Compliance

• IATF 16949 & Core Tools:

  Ensure full compliance with automotive quality standards. Lead the implementation of APQP, PPAP, FMEA, SPC, and MSA.

• Casting Defect Management:

  Collaborate with the Foundry Head to identify and resolve casting-related machining issues such as blowholes, shrinkage, and chilled edges.

• Zero-Defect Culture:

  Drive "First Time Right" (FTR) initiatives to minimize rework and scrap costs.

2. Technical Leadership & Innovation

• CNC/VMC Programming:

  Provide high-level guidance on G-code/M-code optimization and CAD/CAM integration (NX, Mastercam, etc.).

• Maintenance Oversight:

  Coordinate with the Maintenance team for TPM (Total Productive Maintenance) of high-value HMCs and VMCs.

• New Product Development (NPD):

  Lead the machining aspect of new component development, from initial trial runs to mass production.

3. Production & Operational Excellence

• Capacity Planning:

  Manage production schedules to meet stringent automotive OEM delivery timelines.

• OEE Optimization:

  Monitor and improve Overall Equipment Effectiveness, reducing downtime and maximizing throughput.

• Tooling Management:

  Oversee the selection and procurement of cutting tools, fixtures, and gauges specifically designed for abrasive ferrous materials.

• Process Engineering:

  Lead the development of machining sequences, cycle time reduction, and the transition from rough to finish machining.

4. Strategic People Management

• Team Development:

  Manage and mentor a team of Production Managers, Engineers, and CNC Operators.

• Safety (EHS):

  Enforce strict safety protocols to ensure a zero-accident workplace in a heavy industrial environment.

Candidates who are technically very strong and handon would be preferred