Lead Five-Axis CNC Machinist

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced five-axis CNC machinist to build and own a new machining cell from equipment commissioning through lights-out production.

You will commission the machine, write the initial programs, develop the fixturing and workholding strategy, and establish the processes future machinists will follow. This is a hands-on technical leadership role with significant authority over machining methods, tooling, quality, and production readiness.

Compensation and Benefits

$170,000+ base salary, based on demonstrated experience and capability
Performance bonus following 12 months of employment
Medical, dental, and vision coverage
Paid time off and paid holidays

What You’ll Do

Lead machine commissioning, including geometry verification, runoff, and acceptance testing
Program complex five-axis geometry from CAD models and formal GD&T drawings
Perform full collision simulation before programs reach the machine
Design fixturing and workholding strategies for multi-pallet, probe-verified production
Establish feeds, speeds, tooling, and tool-life strategies
Document machining processes and technical knowledge for future production teams
Prove programs to the point where they can run unattended overnight using spindle-load monitoring and in-process probing
Help develop a quality management system aligned with AS9100D requirements
Evaluate and qualify tooling, workholding, probing, and related manufacturing technologies
Support purchasing decisions as machining operations expand
Establish machining standards and mentor future machinists
Own manufacturing projects from initial planning through first-article acceptance and production release

Required Qualifications

Five or more years of CNC machining experience
Hands-on five-axis programming and setup experience—not operation alone
Experience with high-end five-axis platforms such as Matsuura, Makino, GROB, DMG MORI, Hermle, or comparable equipment
Demonstrated experience taking parts from print through first-article acceptance
Strong CAM programming experience with collision simulation using Mastercam, hyperMILL, ESPRIT, Fusion 360, NX, or similar software
Exper

You should be proficient in:

GD&T
Equipment Troubleshooting
CNC Tooling
Troubleshooting Skills
CNC Programming
CNC Machine Installation
G-Code
Design for Manufacturability (DFM)
M-Code
CNC Machine Setup & Changeover
Precision Measurement & Hand Metrology
Advanced Inspection & Gauge Measurement
Machine Geometry & Alignment
Aerospace Manufacturing
Machine Setups for Production Runs

Machines & technologies you'll use:

CNC Mill (3-4 axis VMC)
CNC Lathe (2-4 axis)
CAM Software (Mastercam, Esprit, Autodesk Fusion 360, Siemens NX)
CNC Mill (5+ axis VMC) (Matsuura, Dmg Mori Seiki, Fanuc, Okuma, Mazak, Mikron)
CNC Lathe (5+ axis)