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Lead Cnc Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Lead CNC Machinist / Programmer

Wixom, MI ยท On-site

$30 - $45/hr

We are looking to add an experienced Lead CNC Machinist / Programmer to help strengthen production, improve workflow, and manage shop floor activity. The right person will be heavily involved in ...

Urgent

CNC Lead $32.00+. Position is eligible for quarterly bonuses. The Company Balanced Body is the world's largest designer and manufacturer of Pilates equipment, as well as a provider of high-quality ...

Lead CNC Programmer (Swiss)

Bristol, CT

$26.50 - $36.25/hr

Lead CNC Programmer needed for our Swiss-equipped precision machining client near Bristol, CT. Direct-hire position, not a temp, with competitive compensation and benefits. Qualifications Requires HS ...

Lead CNC Operator

Sacramento, CA ยท On-site

$32/hr

CNC Lead $32.00+. Position is eligible for quarterly bonuses. The Company Balanced Body is the world's largest designer and manufacturer of Pilates equipment, as well as a provider of high-quality ...

Lead CNC Operator

Sacramento, CA ยท On-site

$32/hr

CNC Lead $32.00+. Position is eligible for quarterly bonuses. The Company Balanced Body is the world's largest designer and manufacturer of Pilates equipment, as well as a provider of high-quality ...

Lead CNC Swiss Machinist

Apopka, FL

$18 - $24.50/hr

... CNC Swiss machine programmer with the skills to read and interpret a customer's drawings then create an efficient process and program. This lead position will instruct and train other machinists in ...

Lead CNC Lathe Machinist

Fairfield, OH ยท On-site

$25 - $31/hr

As a Lead CNC Lathe Machinist, you will play a crucial role in our manufacturing process by setting up, programming, and operating horizontal CNC and manual machines. A strong command of G-Code is ...

Lead CNC Lathe Machinist

Fairfield, OH ยท On-site

$25 - $31/hr

As a Lead CNC Lathe Machinist, you will play a crucial role in our manufacturing process by setting up, programming, and operating horizontal CNC and manual machines. A strong command of G-Code is ...

CNC Machinist - Lead

Fort Worth, TX ยท On-site

$35 - $37/hr

CNC Machinist - Lead AGC Heat Transfer Fort Worth, TX $35.00 - $37.00 per hour Position Summary AGC Heat Transfer is seeking a Lead CNC Machinist with 3+ years of machine shop experience to support ...

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Lead Cnc information

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$15

$24

$35

How much do lead cnc jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 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 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 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 Lead CNCs?

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 is the highest salary of a CNC operator?

The highest salary for a CNC operator can reach around $60,000 to $70,000 annually, especially for those with advanced skills, certifications, or experience working with complex machinery. Salaries vary based on location, industry, and level of expertise, with some specialized roles or supervisory positions earning higher pay.

Can a CNC machinist make 100k a year?

Experienced lead CNC machinists with advanced skills, certifications, and the ability to operate complex machinery can potentially earn $100,000 or more annually, especially in high-demand industries or with overtime and bonuses. Salary levels depend on factors such as location, industry, years of experience, and the complexity of the work performed.

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.

What is a CNC lead?

A CNC lead is a supervisory role responsible for overseeing CNC machining operations, ensuring parts are produced accurately and efficiently. They often coordinate with operators, troubleshoot machine issues, and may assist with programming or setup, requiring knowledge of CNC machines and safety protocols.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Lead CNC machining roles typically do not pay $2000 a day, but highly specialized or senior positions in manufacturing or engineering can reach that level, especially with overtime, bonuses, or consulting work. Such high daily rates are more common in freelance consulting, executive roles, or niche technical expertise requiring advanced skills and certifications. Most CNC-related jobs pay hourly or salary-based wages below this threshold unless combined with additional compensation or project-based work.
More about Lead Cnc jobs
What cities are hiring for Lead Cnc jobs? Cities with the most Lead Cnc job openings:
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What job categories do people searching Lead Cnc jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Lead Cnc jobs are:
Infographic showing various Lead Cnc job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,047 per year, or $24.5 per hour.
Lead CNC Lathe Machinist

Lead CNC Lathe Machinist

Phoenix Manufacturing Inc.

Enfield, CT โ€ข On-site

$22.25 - $28.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Description:

Position Summary:

The Lead CNC Lathe Machinistโ€™s primary responsibility will be to perform leadership of the department, training of staff members, and production operations using CNC equipment in our fast-paced manufacturing environment. In this role, one will set up CNC Lathes according to blueprint specifications, selecting the appropriate fixtures, cutting tools, attachments, and materials ensuring orders are completed in a timely manner with a quality first mind-set.


As a team member at Phoenix Manufacturing, Inc. the Lead CNC Lathe Machinist will ensure the team reaches the departmental goals in the production of flight critical aerospace parts. The team member will embody the company values of Passion, Integrity, Determination, and Empathy.


Our Values:

Phoenixโ€™s core values are the shared beliefs and essential principles that guide our behavior and interactions with each other and our decision making. These four values are taught and modeled in all we do:

  • Passion: Belief in the mission and vision: Embrace the passion to bring it to life.
  • Integrity: Acting with honesty, transparency, and truthfulness, even when no one is looking
  • Determination: Driven to get the job done, regardless of the challenges.
  • Empathy: Show regard, respect, and courtesy for one another.


Essential Functions:

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The essential functions of this position include, but are not limited to the following:

  • Ability to set up, troubleshoot, and operate CNC Lathe Machines.
  • Acts as a liaison between the Production Manager and general machinists. Develop the team of machinists by assisting in job set-ups and coaching operators when needed.
  • Assigns jobs and machines to operators, monitors technique, quality, and quantity of production, troubleshoots, and assists operators with machining problems.
  • Provide daily direction, training, and assessment of peers for development. Document required assessment that includes a summary of performance, further development recommendation and/or competencies during a review period.
  • Reports any safety violation, machining equipment misusage and/or improperly performed work to supervisor, may provide input for action including discipline.
  • Assists supervisor in monitoring tooling, materials, quality concerns and production.
  • Inspect work completed on CNC Lathe Machines for conformance to specifications using bench gauging.
  • Strictly follow Standard Work in all aspects of work including CNC Machine setup and operation, process verification, product inspection, documentation, and material handling.
  • Oversee machine repairs and serve as the main contact and onsite supervisor when dealing with outside vendors for servicing including communication, coordination, and follow-up.
  • Perform light preventative maintenance tasks on CNC Machines to maintain machinery performance and prevent machine downtime.
  • Represents Lathe Department manufacturing on cross-functional teams, safety committees, quality audits, or other in-house committees.
  • Regular verbal or written communication to internal stakeholders utilizing both electronic and analog systems.
  • Utilization of office machines including copiers, scanners, phone systems, computers (including email), and other standard equipment.
  • Ability to work as a team player in a fast-paced environment with Quality, Engineering, Supply Chain, and Production Control. Maintains positive, team relationship with internal and external customers, as well as co-workers.
  • Participate in the operation of and compliance with all safety, hazardous material handling, and disposal requirements in accordance with government regulations and company procedures.
  • Maintain a clean work environment (including assigned storage and cleaning duties) in full compliance with all internal, customer and government regulations.
  • Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) (i.e., shoes, eyewear, gloves, masks, shields, and coats) if needed.
  • Comply with all company and safety rules and regulations.
  • Complete testing and adjustment of parts, as needed.
  • Identify and replace parts, as necessary.
  • Other tasks as required.


Requirements:

Experience, Education and Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma or Equivalent Education. Skilled Trade Certification, preferred.
  • Minimum of ten (10) or more yearsโ€™ experience in an aerospace manufacturing environment.
  • Experience working in AS9100 and ISO environment.
  • Experience with Fanuc and/or CNC controls.
  • Experience using lean manufacturing principles and problem-solving methodology.
  • Knowledge of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) a plus.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite (PowerPoint, Word, Outlook, Excel) or related software
  • Excellent organizational skills (verbal and written) with an attention to detail and sense of urgency.
  • Understanding and ability to work within an ERP system (Global Shop).
  • Ability to adapt, prioritize, multi-task, and remain flexible to changes; responds with a sense of urgency.
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment, internally and externally.
  • Availability to work flexible schedules with varying hours to support customer commitments, this includes very early mornings and/or evenings.

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; use hands to type, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms. The employee may be required to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 75 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus. Ability to access all areas of the facility.


Work Environment:

This job operates in a manufacturing environment. The noise level in the work environment is moderate. The pace is rapid and dynamic, multi-task oriented with short notice/changing deadlines. Accuracy and thoroughness/follow-through are very important. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.