Machine Shop Manager – Cape Town

About the role

The company is a well‑established manufacturing and engineering operation seeking an experienced Machine Shop Manager to lead its busy workshop in Cape Town. You will be responsible for driving productivity, quality, safety and continuous improvement across all machining activities.

Key responsibilities

• Oversee day‑to‑day machine shop operations and ensure jobs meet production deadlines.
• Plan, prioritize and schedule machining work to meet drawing tolerances and quality standards.
• Lead, coach and manage shop staff, workflow and productivity.
• Provide technical support on tooling, machining processes and job planning.
• Program, set up and optimise CNC milling and turning operations.
• Maintain preventative maintenance, calibration and equipment reliability.
• Manage urgent jobs, breakdowns and operational priorities.
• Drive process improvements, machine efficiency and productivity.
• Control tooling inventory, selection and usage.
• Ensure housekeeping, lubrication, coolant standards and health & safety compliance.
• Handle admin tasks such as attendance, overtime, leave and team coordination.

Required profile

• Minimum 5 years management experience in a machine shop or production environment.
• At least 10 years post‑trade experience in manufacturing/production.
• Relevant Trade Test Certificate; tertiary qualification is a plus.
• Valid driver’s licence and reliable transport.

Required skills

• Strong CNC machining expertise.
• Proficiency in Mastercam programming (milling and lathes).
• Solid knowledge of G‑Code programming.
• Understanding of machining processes, tooling and material characteristics.
• Experience with equipment set‑up, optimisation and preventative maintenance.
• Good knowledge of OHSA/Health & Safety requirements.
• Computer literacy – MS Office and related systems.