Sr. Manager - Manufacturing
Toyota · Costa Mesa · $176,400–$305,800 (stated in the posting)
Overview
Who we are
Collaborative. Respectful. A place to dream and do. These are just a few words that describe what life is like at Toyota. As one of the world’s most admired brands, Toyota is growing and leading the future of mobility through innovative, high-quality solutions designed to enhance lives and delight those we serve. We’re looking for talented team members who want to Dream. Do. Grow. with us.
To save time applying, Toyota does not offer sponsorship of job applicants for employment-based visas or any other work authorization for this position at this time.
Toyota Racing Development (TRD) is seeking a Sr. Manager, Manufacturing to join our team. We are dedicated to advancing motorsports engineering and delivering world-class performance, and this role is integral to our pursuit of becoming the most respected motorsports engineering organization.
Direct responsibility includes equipment evaluation and selection, ROI and capital justification, process and automation development, facility planning, and personnel planning across the operation. The successful candidate will provide strategic vision, leadership, and accountability for the operation, overseeing the Managers of Manufacturing Engineering, Production Control, and Quality — leading a total team of approximately 40 members ranging from postgraduate engineers to shop-floor technicians.
Key Responsibilities
Lead and manage TRD’s manufacturing operation, operating with a “see, touch, feel” leadership philosophy — engaged on the floor and with the teams — while balancing long-term strategic direction with short-term goals and key performance metrics.
Oversee TRD’s Manufacturing Engineering group, responsible for complete process definition of TRD-manufactured components. Provide technical support through hands-on experience with advanced CNC programming, tooling, fixturing, and process definition across a product mix ranging from high-tolerance, full 5-axis race components to higher-volume commercial components.
Oversee TRD’s Production Control group, responsible for scheduling and execution across two workstreams: low-volume, high-precision, short-lead-time race engine components and higher-volume commercial components. Drive production performance against established KPIs, including OEE targets of ≥80% across 18+ high-precision, 5-axis CNC machines.
Oversee TRD’s Quality Control group, responsible for detailed inspection of tight-tolerance race components manufactured in-house and sourced through a global supply chain. Build an inspection culture that supports internal customers and external suppliers and raises overall component quality.
Coordinate and support other TRD departments, including Planning/Purchasing, Design Engineering, Race Engine Build, Commercial Assembly, and the TRD EHS Department on safety matters affecting the manufacturing operation.
Evaluate, develop, and implement new technologies — including automation, robotics, and AI-assisted tools — to improve efficiency, quality, and capability across the manufacturing operation.
Qualifications
A successful candidate will have:
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Operations Management (Master’s is a plus).
Minimum 10+ years of experience in a high-precision, high-profile, automated, 5-axis CNC environment, including 5+ years in a leadership role.
Hands-on experience with manufacturing process definition, optimization, production scheduling, and inspection methods.
Proven track record managing within an OEE-measured environment with a metrics- and data-driven mindset.
Advanced experience in complex, tight-tolerance, 5-axis high-speed milling.
Understanding and use of shop-floor and business management software (ERP, MRP, etc.).
Proven experience leading 40+ team members across multiple functions, including managing managers.
Preferred Qualifications
Advanced experience in CAM, CAD, and toolpath verification software; proficiency with HyperMill (TRD’s primary CAM platform) strongly preferred; experience with Creo and Vericut a plus.
Familiarity with AI-assisted tools (e.g., LLMs for analysis, documentation, and process improvement).
Manufacturing experience working with billet, forging, and casting raw materials.
Advanced MS Excel and broader MS Office suite proficiency.
Experience designing, machining, and assembling production fixtures, tooling, and related components.
Hands-on experience generating complex production schedules across mixed-volume, mixed-complexity workstreams.
Travel Requirements
This role requires up to 10% travel, primarily to TRD facilities and motorsports events.
What we will bring
During your interview process, our team can fill you in on all the details of our industry-leading benefits and career development opportunities. A few highlights include:
A work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect.
Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career, as well as tuition reimbursement.
Vehicle purchase & lease programs, comprehensive health care, and wellness plans for your entire family.
Flexible work options based on business needs.
Toyota 401(k) Savings Plan featuring a company match, as well as an annual retirement contribution from Toyota regardless of whether you contribute.
Paid holidays and paid time off.
Referral services related to prenatal services, adoption, childcare, schools and more.
Flexible spending accounts.
Relocation assistance (if applicable).
Belonging at Toyota
Our success begins and ends with our people. We embrace all perspectives and value unique human experiences. Respect for all is our North Star. Toyota is proud to have 10+ different Business Partnering Groups across 100 different North American chapter locations that support team members’ efforts to dream, do and grow without questioning that they belong.
Applicants for our positions are considered without regard to race, ethnicity, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, religion, military or veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by law.
Have a question, need assistance with your application or do you require any special accommodations? Please send an email to talent.acquisition@toyota.com.