Lead Machinist/Manufacturing Engineer

Job Title: Lead Machinist

Location: Freeport, IL

Industry: CNC Machining

Job Type: Full-Time On-Site (1st Shift)

Salary: 95-100k

Benefits: Vision, Medical, Dental, 401k

Our client is a growing CNC machine shop near Freeport, IL, seeking a highly skilled and driven individual to step into a hybrid role as Lead Machinist / Manufacturing Engineer. This hands-on leader will serve as a key technical authority on the shop floor, playing a pivotal role in optimizing production processes, mentoring junior machinists, and driving the company's growth trajectory.

Responsibilities:

Lead the setup and operation of CNC Vertical Machining Centers (3- and 4-axis), CNC Horizontal Machining Centers, and CNC Multi-tasking Lathes with sub-spindle.

Apply deep tooling knowledge to select appropriate cutters, define optimal speeds/feeds, and implement high-efficiency machining techniques.

Design and build robust, repeatable fixturing solutions to improve part quality and minimize setup time.

Analyze and optimize machining processes to reduce cycle times and enhance quality and consistency across part runs.

Read and interpret complex engineering drawings, 3D models, GD&T symbols, and customer specifications with confidence and accuracy.

Inspect tight-tolerance components using CMMs, height gauges, micrometers, indicators, and other precision metrology equipment.

Mentor and train junior machinists, both on the shop floor and at the programming desk, to elevate team capabilities.

Develop and implement a structured training program to support the technical growth of new and existing team members.

Rapidly diagnose and troubleshoot issues related to setup, tooling, or machine behavior with a solution-oriented mindset.

Leverage lean manufacturing principles to streamline workflows, minimize downtime, and enhance throughput.

Implement and maintain quick-change setups, offline tool presetting, and standardized procedures to support scalability and efficiency.

Act as a floor-level subject matter expert, collaborating closely with leadership to inform strategic decisions and support continuous improvement.

Qualifications:

7+ years of experience in a CNC machining environment, with demonstrated expertise in setup, operation, and process optimization.

Proficiency in programming and operating CNC mills, lathes, and multi-axis machines.

Experience with Swiss machining is a strong plus.

Solid background in tooling strategies, fixture development, and machining theory.