CNC Swiss Lead Machinist

Job description

Position Summary

A leading medical device contract manufacturer seeking a highly skilled CNC Swiss Lead Machinist to join their precision machining team. This hands-on leadership position will be responsible for setting up and running jobs on Citizen Swiss machines as needed, while also serving as the primary point of contact for the department. The ideal candidate will demonstrate exceptional machining capability along with strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills. This position is key to maintaining quality, efficiency, and productivity on the shop floor while guiding and supporting the Swiss team in daily operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Machine Operation & Setup
• Setup and operate Citizen Swiss CNC machines
• Configure and maintain tool holders, guide bushings, and collet tension.
• Setup and manage bar feeders/loaders for Swiss-style machines.
• Perform general machining tasks including tool changes, offsets, and insert swaps.
• Conduct minor machine maintenance: coolant changes, chip cleanouts, filter replacements.
• Maintain a clean and organized workstation in compliance with 5S practices.
• Inspection & Quality
• Read and interpret complex manufacturing prints, including GD&T.
• Use micrometers, calipers, and visual inspection tools to measure within 0.0002” tolerance.
• Perform in-process inspections using inspection forms.
• Leadership & Communication
• Assign machines and job setups to other Swiss machinists based on skill and workload.
• Provide on-the-job training and technical support to the Swiss team.
• Communicate job status, issues, and completions to production leadership.
• Collaborate with engineering, quality, and planning departments as needed.
• Continuous Improvement & Scheduling
• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance productivity and efficiency.
• Manage regular preventive maintenance schedules for Swiss machines.
• Track and prioritize production jobs to meet deadlines and customer demands.

Required Skills & Experience

• Minimum 3-5 years of experience setting up and running Citizen Swiss machines.
• Proven experience as a hands-on machinist in a high-precision environment.
• Strong understanding of machining tight tolerance components, ideally in medical device manufacturing.
• Ability to lead a team, delegate tasks, and provide technical mentorship.
• Competence in reading blueprints, GD&T, and interpreting technical specifications.
• Skilled in using micrometers, dial indicators, and inspection tools to maintain tight tolerances.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Excel for basic tracking and communication.
• Physical ability to lift parts and materials up to 40 pounds.
• High school diploma or equivalent; vocational training or apprenticeship preferred.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience programming or editing G-code.
• Familiarity with CNC grinding, lathes, or manual equipment.
• Background in regulated industries (medical device, aerospace, etc.).
• Continuous improvement mindset with lean manufacturing exposure.

Job Type: Full-time

Expected hours: 40 – 50 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance