Job Title: CNC Department Lead
Shift: 1st Shift
Location: Milwaukee, WI
Compensation: $80,000 – $150,000 (Direct Hire)
Our client, a well-established, second-generation family-owned machine shop in Milwaukee, is aggressively seeking a talented, motivated, and experienced CNC Department Lead to join their team. This is a direct hire opportunity offering competitive pay and a collaborative work environment. The company specializes in one-off and short-run orders, demanding precision and creativity without the luxury of setup pieces. With features requiring tolerances as tight as ±0.0005”, this role requires a leader who thrives in detail-driven, high-accuracy machining environments.
As the CNC Department Lead, you will not only program and run machines but also train and lead a team of 4–6 CNC Operators, working closely with the President, Process Engineer, and Quality Manager to deliver superior results.
Key Responsibilities:
Program and machine parts on a variety of CNC equipment (Mazak, Toshiba, Okuma, Sharp, Viper, ProtoTRAK, Milltronics) using both MasterCAM and on-machine programming.
Lead setup, tool selection, fixturing, and in-process inspections for complex, tight-tolerance parts.
Troubleshoot machining issues and optimize processes to improve part quality and reduce cycle time.
Develop and train CNC Operators in programming, inspection techniques, and machining best practices.
Read and interpret blueprints, mechanical drawings, and specifications.
Collaborate with Engineering, Quality, and Management teams to plan efficient, cost-effective production methods.
Ensure high-quality finishes, dimensional accuracy, and adherence to all inspection and quality requirements.
Maintain documentation, complete required inspections, and report deviations or issues.
Enforce and promote a safety-first culture within the department.
Required Skills & Experience:
2+ years of CNC leadership or progressive machining/programming experience.
Proficient with tight tolerance CNC machining (±0.0005”).
Intermediate to advanced MasterCAM programming skills.
Strong knowledge of Mazak machines and Mazatrol programming.
Conversational programming experience (ProtoTRAK, Milltronics).
Familiar with G & M code, cutting tools, feeds, speeds, and tooling selection.
Skilled in blueprint reading, GD&T, and precision measurement (micrometers, calipers, depth gauges, etc.).
Strong organizational and problem-solving abilities.
Effective communicator and team leader with the ability to train and guide others.
Additional Requirements:
Exceptional attendance record.
Forklift and overhead crane training (required or willing to obtain).
Valid driver’s license preferred.
Ability to work independently and lead by example in a hands-on environment.
Comfortable working in a shop environment with moderate noise, heavy machinery, and overhead cranes.
Physical Requirements:
Frequently: stand, walk, use hands, lift up to 50 lbs, climb, bend, kneel, or crouch.
Occasionally: talk, hear.
May require respirator fit testing.
Work Environment:
Indoor machine shop with regular exposure to:
Forklift traffic
Overhead cranes
Moving mechanical parts
Airborne particles
Moderate noise levels