We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Lead CNC/Manual Machinist to oversee daily machine shop operations while actively performing machining duties. This role combines hands-on machining expertise with team leadership, quality control, and operational oversight to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality production.
Position Summary
The Lead Manual Machinist is responsible for organizing machine shop workflow, supporting and guiding machinists, maintaining equipment standards, and ensuring all parts meet quality and safety expectations. The ideal candidate demonstrates strong technical knowledge, leadership ability, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities, Leadership & Team Oversight
- Organize and schedule incoming machine jobs
- Ensure required tools, materials, and equipment are available for assigned projects
- Provide leadership, direction, and clear communication to machinists
- Establish expectations and provide feedback, coaching, or corrective action when necessary
- Promote a safe, cooperative, and productive team environment
- Ensure adherence to company safety policies and procedures
Operational & Supervisory Support
- Maintain an organized and professional machine office/work area
- Perform quality control inspections on completed parts and jobs
- Research and recommend new machinery purchases; prepare proposals for Supervisor
- Maintain inventory of shop supplies and coordinate replenishment
Machining & Technical Duties
- Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and engineering documents
- Verify measurements and plan layouts for production
- Translate engineering specifications into precise machining dimensions
- Set up and operate conventional and CNC machines (mills & lathes)
- Monitor machine operations and make necessary adjustments for optimal results
- Conduct daily machine checks and regular equipment assessments
- Ensure machining results align with customer specifications
- Communicate production or quality issues promptly
Safety & Compliance
- Maintain equipment in safe operating condition
- Ensure proper use of required PPE (face shields, gloves, etc.)
- Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
- Adhere to OSHA and company safety standards at all times
Requirements
- Must possess loyalty, hunger to grow and pride in work
- Minimum 3 years of experience as a Manual Machinist
- Proven ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications
- Experience operating a variety of machine equipment and tools
- Proficient with manual and electrical tools (saws, grinders, drills, etc.)
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Ability to read fractions and decimals, including converting fractions to decimals
- Solid computer skills and basic math proficiency (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, geometry, conversions)
- Knowledge of machine shop safety standards and protective equipment
- Forklift experience (training provided quarterly)
- Overhead crane experience preferred
- Ability to stand and walk up to 75% of shift
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
- Dependable and willing to work overtime as needed
- Ability to perform in a fast-paced, high-demand environment
- Professional certifications preferred
Salary & Schedule
- $30 - $35 hr
- First Shift - Starts at 5 am, end depends on workload
- Overtime available
You should be proficient in:
- Troubleshooting Skills
- CNC Programming
- Tape Measure Reading
- CNC Machine Setup & Changeover
Machines & technologies you'll use:
- CNC Mill (3-4 axis VMC) (Fanuc, Mazak, Haas, Okuma)
- CNC Lathe (2-4 axis) (Mazak, Haas, Okuma)