Lead CNC Machinist

Our client is a fast-growing metalworking company providing custom metal fabrication and stamping services for some of the world's most recognized industrial brands. With over 1,100 employees across multiple Midwest and Southeast facilities, they offer a stable, safety-first work environment with genuine investment in people, equipment, and continuous improvement.

Position Summary

The Shift Lead I works alongside the Department Leader to maintain a safe, respectful, and productive work environment. You are a culture carrier — someone who leads by example, keeps the team moving efficiently, and holds high standards for safety and quality without being asked twice. This is a people role as much as a process role.

Safety is the #1 priority. Every team member is expected to strictly follow safety policies, promptly correct or report hazards, and make regular suggestions for safety process improvements.

What You'll Do

1. Promote and maintain a respectful, safe work environment where every team member can do their best work.
2. Respond to employee questions and concerns; advise on problem resolution in real time.
3. Communicate with the Department Leader and other shift leads to plan work schedules and ensure production stays on track.
4. Assist in training and developing employees to reinforce company values, mission, and vision.
5. Support the Leader in employee evaluations, retention efforts, and 1-on-1 conversations.
6. Monitor work habits and make corrections or suggestions when standards aren't being met.
7. Promote and enforce company policies in line with ISO standards; model the behavior you expect.
8. Communicate employee concerns to the appropriate Leader in a timely manner.
9. Use software tools including SharePoint and Microsoft Outlook; approve payroll and log near-miss incidents in the safety system.
10. Perform regular floor rounds to verify performance expectations are being met throughout the shift.
11. Understand and communicate KPIs; lead shift huddles effectively.

What We're Looking For

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• One year of technical training or equivalent hands-on manufacturing or shop experience

Skills & Knowledge:

• Working knowledge of production processes and metal fabrication machinery
• Familiarity with production operations equipment, materials, methods, and practices
• Knowledge of safety requirements including PPE usage and standard safety precautions
• Ability to plan, organize, and direct work in a safe, efficient, and orderly manner
• Strong communication skills — written and verbal; able to give and receive routine instructions clearly
• Demonstrates accountability; leads by example and maintains high standards
• Ability to build and sustain strong working relationships with coworkers at all levels
• A genuine role model for company culture — within the facility and in the broader community

Note: The qualifications listed above are guidelines. Other combinations of education and experience that demonstrate the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities will be considered.

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

This role requires the ability to stand, walk, sit, and use hands and fingers to handle tools and equipment. Occasional lifting of up to 50 pounds is required. The work environment is a manufacturing facility with moderate noise levels. Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.