Machine Shop Lead

Machine Shop Cell Lead – Vertical (CNC Machining)

Peabody, MA

Full-Time

About the Opportunity

We are seeking a hands-on Machine Shop Cell Lead to oversee daily operations within a vertical machining cell in a precision manufacturing environment. This role combines technical machining expertise with team leadership, ensuring production runs safely, efficiently, and to exact quality standards.

You’ll play a key role in driving performance, supporting team development, and maintaining workflow stability while partnering closely with engineering and production leadership.

Key Responsibilities

Production Execution & Cell Performance

• Execute daily production plans within the vertical machining cell
• Prioritize and sequence work to meet delivery schedules
• Maximize machine uptime and minimize downtime
• Monitor workflow and proactively address risks or delays
• Lead daily operations with minimal oversight

Team Leadership & Development

• Provide direction and support to machinists, operators, and junior team members
• Train employees based on skill development plans
• Reinforce accountability, standard work, and best practices
• Foster a strong learning environment, especially for entry-level team members
• Partner with leadership on performance management and development

Quality & Process Ownership

• Ensure all parts meet blueprint specifications and quality standards
• Stop production when safety or quality is at risk
• Collaborate with technical experts to resolve process issues
• Drive consistency and prevent repeat defects

Cross-Functional Communication

• Coordinate with production leadership, engineering, and planning teams
• Escalate issues related to scheduling, materials, tooling, or technical challenges
• Maintain clear, proactive communication across departments

Safety & Continuous Improvement

• Maintain a clean, organized workspace aligned with 5S principles
• Identify and support process improvement initiatives
• Help stabilize and standardize repeat production work

Required Qualifications

Technical Skills

• Proven CNC machining experience (setup operation)
• Ability to perform full setups on repeat and moderately complex jobs
• Experience selecting tooling, fixtures, and offsets
• Ability to machine to tight tolerances and surface finish requirements
• Strong troubleshooting skills in machining and process issues

Experience

• 5 years of CNC operator experience
• 5 years of CNC setup machinist experience

Leadership & Work Style

• Demonstrated reliability in a production environment
• Ability to coach and mentor less experienced team members
• Strong attention to detail, quality, and safety
• Team-oriented mindset with accountability and initiative

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior leadership, mentoring, or training experience
• Strong background in vertical machining centers
• Experience in high-mix, low-volume, tight-tolerance environments
• Ability to independently troubleshoot and optimize machining processes

What We Offer

• Competitive pay based on experience
• Opportunities for advancement into leadership roles
• Stable, team-oriented manufacturing environment
• Exposure to complex, high-precision machining projects

Schedule

• Full-time
• Day shift (with potential overtime)