Advanced Manufacturing Operations Specialist / Process Planner

Responsibilities for this Position

Advanced Manufacturing Operations Specialist / Process Planner

ID: 2026-70291
USA-AL-Cullman
Required Clearance: No clearance
Posted Date: 2/6/2026
Category: Manufacturing
Employment Type: Full Time
Hiring Company: General Dynamics Mission Systems, Inc.

Basic Qualifications

Bachelors degree in a related specialized area or equivalent experience is required plus a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience; or Master's degree plus a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience.

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

Imagine building your career by developing the solutions that support the mission of our nations service members, intelligence analysts and first responders. Thats the challenge thats waiting for you at General Dynamics Mission Systems. Here you have the opportunity to redefine innovation and excellence for the world. Are you ready? Then make a career move that makes an impact at General Dynamics Mission Systems.

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.

Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Manufacturing Operations Specialist 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
• Requires minimal technical assistance

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Fully proficient in CAD software (e.g. SolidWorks), ERP systems, and statistical analysis tools
• Fully proficient in reading and interpreting engineering prints and GD&T
• Solid understanding of CNC machining processes and shop capabilities
• Experience with CNC mills, lathes, and common machining operations
• Fully proficient 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
• Fully proficient verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work independently and with minimal supervision

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 nations 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 $95,479.00 - USD $105,922.00 /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

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