VMC Lead Machinist -- Precision Milling Operations

Job Description

Job Description Role Overview

Reports to: Manufacturing Manager

Guide a team of Makers in a high-mix, precision machining environment. You will coordinate daily work, keep quality and safety front-and-center, and ensure our vertical CNC milling operations hit plan—every shift.

A Day in the Life

• Start-up: Open the day by reviewing job travelers and prints, confirming fixtures, tooling, material, and gages are ready so each Maker can begin on time.
• First articles & in-process: Verify dimensions and features through in-process checks so parts meet all specifications and tolerances.
• Flow control: Partner with the Manufacturing Manager and Production Scheduler to sequence jobs and adjust the workflow to the ERP master schedule.
• Quality system discipline: Audit adherence to standard work instructions and process control plans; intervene when deviations appear.
• Problem solving in real time: Use structured tools—5 Why and other formal methods—to troubleshoot issues, remove roadblocks, and escalate when needed.
• Safety and 6S: Champion the team’s safety practices and lead our 6S audits to maintain an orderly, clean, and hazard-free area.
• Continuous improvement: Drive the Quick and Easy Kaizen (QEK) program, support Kata walks, and implement actions that reduce scrap, eliminate rework, and increase metal removal rates.
• Coaching: Mentor, train, and develop Makers—build a team of problem preventers rather than problem detectors.
• Communication hub: Serve as a go-to resource to resolve technical issues that could impact schedule success.
• Closeout: Ensure production reporting and paperwork are complete and accurate, including good part counts and scrap documentation.

What You Will Own

• Reading travelers and engineering drawings to produce accurate parts.
• Performing and verifying required inspection checks to confirm compliance with all specs.
• Ensuring the team has the right tools, gages, materials, and equipment for assigned work.
• Reviewing unplanned scrap with team members and leadership to find root causes and implement countermeasures.
• Monitoring daily quality, safety, and productivity metrics and taking action when results drift.
• Supporting and updating process controls and procedures to drive consistent outcomes.
• Providing performance input and recommending individual development plans for Makers.
• Demonstrating leadership aligned with company core values and taking on related duties as needed.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED).
• Hands-on expertise with standard shop measurement tools: calipers, OD/ID micrometers (including intra-mics), and various gauges.
• Background in a high-mix precision machine shop.
• Proven ability to set up and run vertical CNC milling machines.
• Mastercam programming/troubleshooting experience preferred.
• Lean and quality system exposure preferred: ISO 9001:2015, ISO 13485, AS9100D.
• Capable of lifting up to 50 lbs and remaining on your feet for extended periods.
• Comfort operating material handling equipment, including forklifts.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Computer literacy; Microsoft Word, Outlook, and Excel experience preferred.
• Skilled at prioritizing multiple tasks in a fast-paced production setting.

Proficiencies We Value

• GD&T and blueprint interpretation
• Quality inspection practices
• Team leadership and people development
• Equipment diagnostics and troubleshooting
• Structured problem-solving (5 Why/root cause)
• CNC programming fundamentals
• Following and improving SOPs
• AS9100 and ISO 9001 familiarity
• Production setups for repeat runs
• CAD/CAM competency
• Effective communication
• Manufacturing floor experience
• Basic computer skills

Tools & Technology You’ll Use

• 3–4 axis and 5+ axis vertical machining centers (VMCs)
• CAD and CAM software
• Optical comparator
• Overhead crane and material handling equipment
• Calipers, micrometers, and other precision metrology tools
• Forklifts