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Lead Cnc Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Canton Drop Forge

Lead CNC Programmer

Canton, OH · On-site

$24.75 - $33.75/hr

Lead CNC Programmer Location: Canton, Ohio Company: Canton Drop Forge Schedule: Monday - Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Canton Drop Forge is a worldwide leader in Custom and Closed Die Forgings. Thanks to ...

MASON ELECTRIC CO

Lead CNC Programmer

Kagel Canyon, CA · On-site

$27 - $36.75/hr

Lead CNC Programmer Mason welcomes people who share our determination and high standards to join us in doing work that moves the world forward. We design, manufacture, and market highly engineered ...

MASON ELECTRIC CO

Lead CNC Programmer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$28.50 - $39/hr

Lead CNC Programmer Mason welcomes people who share our determination and high standards to join us in doing work that moves the world forward. We design, manufacture, and market highly engineered ...

Canton Drop Forge, Inc.

Lead CNC Programmer

Canton, OH · On-site

$24.75 - $33.75/hr

Lead CNC Programmer Location: Canton, Ohio Company: Canton Drop Forge Schedule: Monday - Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Canton Drop Forge is a worldwide leader in Custom and Closed Die Forgings. Thanks ...

Mason

Lead CNC Programmer

Sylmar, CA · On-site

$50 - $72/hr

Lead CNC Programmer Mason welcomes people who share our determination and high standards to join us in doing work that moves the world forward. We design, manufacture, and market highly engineered ...

Park-Ohio Holdings Corp.

Lead CNC Programmer

Canton, OH · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

The Lead CNC Programmer will work closely with Machine Shop Operations, Engineering, Quality, Maintenance, and CNC operators to develop effective machining processes, troubleshoot technical issues ...

New

Mason

Lead CNC Programmer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Summary The Lead CNC Programmer is responsible for developing, optimizing, and standardizing CNC programs for multi‑axis machining operations while providing technical leadership to programmers and ...

Placon Corporation

Lead CNC Machinist

Madison, WI

$33 - $37/hr

Lead CNC Machinist We're looking for an experienced Lead CNC Machinist who enjoys building highquality tooling, solving problems on the fly, and helping others grow. If you're skilled with CNC ...

Placon Corporation

Lead CNC Machinist

Madison, WI · On-site

$33 - $37/hr

Lead CNC MachinistWe're looking for an experienced Lead CNC Machinist who enjoys building high‑quality tooling, solving problems on the fly, and helping others grow. If you're skilled with CNC ...

Placon Corporation

Lead CNC Machinist

Madison, WI · On-site

$33 - $37/hr

Lead CNC Machinist We're looking for an experienced Lead CNC Machinist who enjoys building high-quality tooling, solving problems on the fly, and helping others grow. If you're skilled with CNC ...

W3Global Inc.

Lead CNC Machinist

Mooresville, NC · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Role: CNC Swiss Machine Lead Position Summary We are seeking an experienced CNC Swiss Machine Lead to oversee daily operations of our Swiss machining department. The ideal candidate will have ...

fairbanksmorse

WL - Lead CNC Machinist (1st Shift)

Ward, AR

$17.25 - $23.75/hr

Lead CNC MachinistJob Summary Ward Leonard, a Fairbanks Morse Defense company, is seeking an accomplished, hands-on Lead CNC Machinist to help drive precision machining excellence in support of ...

Openwork

Lead CNC Machinist

Houston, TX · On-site

$19 - $25.75/hr

Lead daily machining operations while working alongside the production team. * Set up and operate both manual and CNC machine tools. * Create, edit, and optimize CNC programs to improve efficiency ...

Conflux Systems

CNC Machinist

Seguin, TX · On-site

$18.25 - $25/hr

Lead CNC Machinist Location: Onsite in Seguin, TX Duration: 12+ Months Full Overview We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Lead CNC Machinist to join our dynamic manufacturing team. In this ...

Creative Workforce Solutions

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Lead CNC Programmer & Machinist

Kenilworth, NJ · On-site

$45 - $55/hr

Lead CNC Programmer & Machinist Exothermic Molding August 2026 Exothermic Molding, one of the pioneers in Reaction Injection Molding (RIM), was founded in 1972 to provide parts to the medical ...

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Lead Cnc information

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How much do lead cnc jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead cnc in the United States is $24.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Lead CNC?

Lead CNCs, or Lead CNC Operators, are experienced professionals who oversee CNC (Computer Numerical Control) operations in manufacturing environments. They are responsible for programming, setting up, and operating CNC machines, as well as supervising a team of CNC machinists or operators. Lead CNCs ensure that production runs smoothly, parts meet quality standards, and safety protocols are followed. They often troubleshoot equipment issues, optimize machining processes, and contribute to training new employees. Their leadership role is crucial to maintaining efficiency and high-quality output on the shop floor.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lead CNC, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lead CNC, you need advanced knowledge of CNC machining processes, blueprint reading, and a strong background in manufacturing or mechanical engineering, often supported by technical certifications. Familiarity with CAD/CAM software, CNC programming languages (like G-code), and various machine tools is essential. Leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication are vital soft skills for managing teams and ensuring workflow efficiency. These skills and qualities are important to maintain high production standards, minimize downtime, and drive continuous improvement in manufacturing operations.

What are the main challenges a Lead CNC might face when managing a team, and how can they effectively address them?

As a Lead CNC, one of the main challenges is balancing the technical demands of operating and programming CNC machines with the responsibility of managing and mentoring team members. Effective communication is critical to ensure production targets are met and that any issues are quickly resolved. Additionally, maintaining high quality standards while training less experienced operators requires patience and strong leadership skills. Successful Lead CNCs often address these challenges by fostering a collaborative environment, implementing clear processes, and staying updated on the latest manufacturing technologies.

What is the difference between Lead Cnc vs Cnc Operator?

AspectLead CncCnc Operator
CertificationsMachining certifications, leadership trainingBasic machining certifications, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentSupervises CNC machines, oversees teamOperates CNC machines directly
ResponsibilitiesOversees production, quality control, team coordinationSets up and runs CNC machines, monitors operations
Industry UsageManufacturing plants, machine shopsManufacturing, machining workshops

The main difference between Lead Cnc and Cnc Operator lies in their responsibilities and leadership roles. Lead Cnc typically supervises and coordinates CNC machining processes, requiring additional certifications and leadership skills. Cnc Operators focus on operating CNC machines directly, with less emphasis on supervision. Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments, but Lead Cnc positions involve more oversight and management tasks.

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What states have the most Lead Cnc jobs?

States with the most job openings for Lead Cnc jobs include:

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Lead Cnc jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Cnc job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,047 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Lead CNC Programmer

Canton Drop Forge

Canton, OH • On-site

$24.75 - $33.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Lead CNC Programmer
Location: Canton, Ohio
Company: Canton Drop Forge
Schedule: Monday - Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Canton Drop Forge is a worldwide leader in Custom and Closed Die Forgings. Thanks to our over 100 years of prosperity as a company, we provide top benefits for our valued employees to prosper and reach their greatest potential. Becoming a member of Canton Drop Forge means joining a team that benefits from more than a century of learned knowledge and industry skills.
At Canton Drop Forge, you'll gain valuable experience in servicing our six major markets of expertise. We lead the way in closed die forging innovation for the aerospace, oilfield, power generation, mechanical power transmission, off-highway and railway industries.
Position Overview:
Canton Drop Forge is seeking an experienced Lead CNC Programmer to provide advanced CNC programming and technical support within our Machine Shop.
This position will serve as the primary technical resource for CNC programming, machining processes, tooling, setups, and program optimization. The Lead CNC Programmer will work closely with Machine Shop Operations, Engineering, Quality, Maintenance, and CNC operators to develop effective machining processes, troubleshoot technical issues, and continuously improve safety, quality, efficiency, and machine utilization.
Key Responsibilities:
  • CNC Programming: Develop, modify, maintain, and optimize CAD, CNC programs for machining operations. Translate engineering drawings, specifications, and manufacturing requirements into effective machining programs and processes.
  • Machining & Process Development: Determine appropriate machining sequences, tooling, speeds, feeds, work holding, and setup requirements. Develop effective machining methods for new and existing work.
  • Technical Support: Serve as the primary technical resource for CNC programming and complex machining issues. Provide technical guidance to CNC machinists and operators regarding programs, setups, tooling, and machining methods.
  • Troubleshooting & Problem-Solving: Support operators in troubleshooting programs, tooling, setup, dimensional, and machining issues. Assist in root cause analysis and corrective action efforts related to machining and quality concerns.
  • Process Improvement: Evaluate CNC programs and CAM machining methods to improve cycle time, tool life, machine utilization, quality, and process reliability. Identify opportunities to reduce setup time, machining variation, scrap, and rework.
  • Cross-Departmental Communication: Collaborate with Machine Shop Operations, Engineering, Quality, and Maintenance to support new and existing machining processes, resolve technical issues, and ensure proper machine setup and process optimization.
  • Programming Standards & Documentation: Maintain accurate CNC programs, setup documentation, tooling information, and related process records. Establish and promote consistent programming standards and machining practices.
  • Training & Technical Development: Provide technical instruction and support to CNC machinists and operators on programming, equipment, setups, tooling, and machining practices. Support continued development of CNC capabilities throughout the Machine Shop.

Qualifications:
  • 5+ years of hands-on CNC programming and machining experience within a manufacturing or machine shop environment.
  • Advanced working knowledge of CNC programming, CAD/CAM, machining methods, tooling, speeds and feeds, setups, and process optimization.
  • Strong understanding of CNC machining processes with the ability to troubleshoot complex machining, tooling, setup, and dimensional issues.
  • Ability to read blueprints and complex engineering drawings, dimensions, tolerances, specifications, and manufacturing requirements.
  • Serve as a technical resource, provide guidance to machinists and operators, and promote consistent programming and machining practices.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to identify root causes and develop practical machining solutions.
  • Working knowledge of manufacturing quality requirements; familiarity with AS9100 quality standards preferred.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills. Ability to collaborate effectively with Operations, Engineering, Quality, Maintenance, and shop-floor employees.
  • Proficiency with applicable CNC programming software and manufacturing systems. Proficiency within Microsoft Office, including Excel, required.

Canton Drop Forge is an equal opportunity employer; qualified applicants are considered for and treated during employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, protected veteran status, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by law.
Canton Drop Forge offers a comprehensive and competitive benefit package including medical, dental, life disability, 401k matching, vacation, and sick time.
Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a background investigation and a thorough drug screen.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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