What are the responsibilities and job description for the Production Control Manager position at AST Metal Forming?
About Us
Advanced Structural Technologies (AST) is a leading manufacturer specializing in forged, flow-formed, and machined products for the aerospace, defense, and automotive industries. With over 25 years of experience, AST has built a strong reputation for precision engineering, innovation, and high-quality manufacturing.
Located in Oxnard, California, AST operates out of a cutting-edge facility spanning over 250,000 sq. ft., including our newest expansion completed in 2024. AST employs approximately 165 skilled professionals across multi-shift operations, ensuring efficiency, precision, and timely delivery for mission-critical industries.
Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced Production Control Manager to lead and oversee production scheduling, inventory control, material flow, and MRP system accuracy across our manufacturing operations. This role is responsible for ensuring a smooth, reliable, and efficient flow of materials and information from procurement through to delivery. The ideal candidate will be a strategic thinker with deep experience in production planning, ERP systems, and cross-functional team leadership in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and maintain production control policies, practices, and systems that support efficient and timely manufacturing operations.
- Create and oversee master production schedules to ensure alignment with customer orders, material availability, and labor capacity.
- Ensure accurate and timely processing of labor, material, and work order transactions within the ERP system.
- Monitor and maintain optimal inventory levels, ensuring accurate procurement, storage, and usage of raw materials and components.
- Supervise and support production planners, inventory control staff, and material handlers, providing direction, coaching, and performance feedback.
- Collaborate with purchasing, engineering, quality, and shop floor leadership to resolve material shortages, delays, or schedule conflicts.
- Identify and implement process improvements related to scheduling, inventory, and production workflows.
- Provide regular reports and updates to senior management on production status, KPI performance, and capacity forecasts.
- Ensure compliance with company policies, safety standards, and operational procedures.
Qualifications
- 8–10 years of experience in a manufacturing environment, with at least 3 years in a production control leadership role.
- Proven experience managing production schedules, material flow, and MRP/ERP systems in a high-mix, low-volume environment.
- Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, lead times, inventory control principles, and capacity planning.
- Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems (experience with systems such as ECI Jobboss, Oracle NetSuite, or Dynamics 365 is a plus).
- Excellent organizational, analytical, and time management skills.
- Strong leadership and interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate effectively across departments.
- Bachelor’s degree in Operations Management, Supply Chain, Industrial Engineering, or a related field preferred; equivalent work experience will be considered.
Why Join AST?
At AST, we believe in fostering a work environment where employees can thrive both personally and professionally. We offer a competitive benefits package, including:
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- 401(k) Savings Plan
- Company-Sponsored Life Insurance
- Short-term and Long-term Disability Coverage
- Paid Holidays
- Paid Vacation and Sick Leave
Job Type & Pay
- Job Type: Full-Time, In-Person
- Pay Range: $95,000 – $130,000 per year (commensurate with experience)
Hours & Schedule
- Schedule: Monday – Friday (8-hour shift)
- Expected Hours: 40 hours per week (plus overtime as needed)
If you are a detail-oriented and driven production control professional ready to lead and elevate operations in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, we encourage you to apply. AST is committed to maintaining a fair and respectful workplace for all employees.
You should be proficient in:
- Leadership / People Management
- Bachelor's Degree
- Continuous Improvement
- Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
- Supervisory Experience
- Production Optimization
- Kaizen
- Lean Manufacturing Principles
- Scheduling Experience
Machines & technologies you'll use:
- ERP Software
Salary : $95,000 - $130,000