Senior Manufacturing Operations Specialist / Process Planner

Basic Qualifications

Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and relevant work experience is required plus a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience; or Master's degree.

CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS:Applicants selected will be subject to a U.S. Government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. Due to the nature of work performed within our facilities, U.S. citizenship is required.

Responsibilities for this Position

At General Dynamics Mission Systems, we create the technologies, products and services that help our nation’s heroes keep our nation safe. The work we do is so advanced, we are continuously moving the boundaries of what’s possible. Here you’ll work with the best and your talent will be front and center on projects that impact the world. Are you up to the challenge?We apply advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, AR/VR, Cloud Native and Quantum Physics to solve our customers’ missions in cyber, RF, undersea, interstellar and everything in between.

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Manufacturing Operations Specialist / Process Planner to join our team at General Dynamics Mission Systems, a leader in the aerospace and defense industry. The Operations Specialist is responsible for translating customer prints into efficient, repeatable manufacturing processes for CNC machining. This role analyzes customer drawings, specifications, and tolerances, then breaks parts into logical machining operations, selects appropriate machines, and defines the order of operations to ensure quality, efficiency, and on-time delivery.

Key Responsibilities:

• Review and interpret customer prints, models, and related documentation
• Identify all print requirements including dimensions, tolerances, GD&T, surface finish, materials, and special specifications
• Break customer prints into manageable and logical machining operations
• Determine the optimal sequence and order of operations
• Select appropriate CNC machines and processes (mills, lathes, multi-axis, secondary operations, etc.)
• Define setup strategies, fixturing approach, and inspection points
• Collaborate with programmers, machinists, quality, and management to ensure manufacturability
• Identify potential machining challenges and recommend process improvements
• Ensure processes meet customer quality, tolerance, and delivery requirements
• Support troubleshooting on the shop floor when issues arise
• Assist with continuous improvement initiatives to reduce cycle time, scrap, and rework

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g. SolidWorks), ERP systems, and statistical analysis tools
• Strong ability to read and interpret engineering prints and GD&T
• Solid understanding of CNC machining processes and shop capabilities
• Experience with CNC mills, lathes, and common machining operations
• Practical knowledge of tolerances, materials, tooling, and workholding
• Ability to plan efficient machining strategies based on real-world shop conditions
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills
• Effective communication skills to work with machinist’s and programmer’s

Our Commitment to You:

• An exciting career path with opportunities for continuous learning a development
• Research oriented work, alongside award winning teams developing practical solutions for our nation’s security
• Flexible schedules with every other Friday off work, if desired (9/80 schedule)
• Competitive benefits, including 401k matching, flex time off, paid parental leave, healthcare benefits, health and wellness programs, employee resource and social groups, and more
• See more at com/careers/why-work-for-us/benefits

Workplace Options:

This position is fully on-site

While on-site, you will be a part of the Cullman, AL facility

Salary Note

This estimate represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors (geographic location, etc.). Actual pay may vary. This job posting will remain open until the position is filled.

Combined Salary Range

USD $70,662.00 - USD $83,937.00 /Yr.

Company Overview

General Dynamics Mission Systems (GDMS) engineers a diverse portfolio of high technology solutions, products and services that enable customers to successfully execute missions across all domains of operation. With a global team of 12,000+ top professionals, we partner with the best in industry to expand the bounds of innovation in the defense and scientific arenas. Given the nature of our work and who we are, we value trust, honesty, alignment and transparency. We offer highly competitive benefits and pride ourselves in being a great place to work with a shared sense of purpose. You will also enjoy a flexible work environment where contributions are recognized and rewarded. If who we are and what we do resonates with you, we invite you to join our high-performance team!

Equal Opportunity Employer / Individuals with Disabilities / Protected Veterans