Lead Machinist

Job Description

Purpose of this job:

Our Machining team transforms raw steel into precision-engineered parts using CNC mills and lathes, along with manual machines. As the Lead Machinist on our 2nd shift, you will oversee manufacturing operations, ensuring continuous and smooth production of staffed work cells when other departments are unavailable until the following morning.

You will help produce base plates, load plates, cam followers, finished frames, studs, shells, rolls, wheels, swivel tops, and other precision components that meet exact print specifications. Your leadership, problem-solving skills, and machining expertise will drive efficiency and maintain high-quality standards.

Job Summary:

You will report to our Chief Operating Officer.

Lead and supervise the Production team during the 2nd shift, ensuring all team members understand their tasks and responsibilities. This includes onboarding and training new team members and coaching and supporting tenured staff to carry out their duties effectively.

Manage shift operations, including delegation of work based on complexity, specialty, and workload distribution.

Serve as the primary decision-maker for machining operations, troubleshooting equipment issues, and addressing workflow challenges to maintain output.

Use our shop computer to record hours spent on work orders. You’ll scan your badge to start and end your shift and as you begin and complete jobs.

Record and report operation scan and time clock discrepancies to the Production Manager on the 1st shift for correction.

Read and thoroughly understand a work order by reviewing product blueprints available on our shop computer.

Program machines (conversationally) based on work order specifications, including setting up tooling, inputting coordinates, and adjusting settings for optimal performance.

Operate CNC machines to fabricate parts with precision.

Prepare and load raw materials and parts onto the machines.

Perform test runs to check if the machines produce outputs according to specifications.

Inspect and monitor parts throughout fabrication, ensuring they meet company’s quality standards before being passed on to the next department in the production process.

Maintain, organize, and clean equipment in your work area to not compromise safety.

Notify Management when faulty equipment or defective materials are discovered.

Other related duties as assigned.

Key factors that matter most for this role:

You have accreditation from a technical school or an applicable skilled trades program and/or at least 4 – 6 years of experience in operating CNC mills and lathes, with a solid understanding of machining processes and techniques.

Prior supervisory or team leadership experience, preferably in a manufacturing or machining environment.

Excellent ability to read and listen to assignments given in a variety of forms (electronic, written, verbal, etc.)

Ability to read and interpret technical documents and drawings to ensure parts meet exact specifications.

You have a strong attention to detail and a solid understanding of machinery operation and maintenance, with problem-solving skills for troubleshooting equipment issues.

Strong ability to make independent decisions and solve problems quickly to keep operations running efficiently.

Physical demands and work environment:

Continually utilize visual acuity to operate equipment, read technical information, and use a shop computer.

Continually required to safely lift/push/carry items up to and more than 50 pounds

Specialized equipment, machines, or vehicles used: Safety glasses, ear plugs, latex gloves, forklift, pallet jacks, overhead cranes, etc.

Our benefits: We provide comprehensive benefits offerings to all full-time employees.

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans offered after your first full month of employment

401k with generous company match after your first full month

Family leave when you’re eligible

PTO & paid holidays

Plus, many more

Supervisory Responsibilities:

Oversee Machinist, Machine Operator, Lathe Operator, Saw Operator, Welder

Full-time