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Lead Machinist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rugged Suppressors

Lead Machinist

Travelers Rest, SC · On-site

$39 - $41/hr

Description Lead Machinist Weekend Shift Lead machinist responsible for mastery for running and maintaining multiple multi-axis CNC machines. With tolerances to 0.0005", the lead machinist will ...

Zoo

Lead Machinist

Los Angeles, CA

You will lead machining efforts across CNC mills, lathes, prototype equipment, and fabrication tools to produce high-quality parts used in product development, testing, fixtures, and production ...

Sapphire Recruitment

Lead Machinist

Syracuse, NY · On-site

Lead Machining Specialist (75-100K+) We have an opening available for a Lead Machining Specialist in the Syracuse, NY area. This is a 1st shift direct hire position. Company Overview: * Established ...

Superior Aerospace

Lead Machinist

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$35/hr

Lead Machinist Superior Aerospace is hiring an experienced Lead Machinist to support daily machining operations and help guide shop-floor employees. This position sets up and operates a variety of ...

Zoo

Lead Machinist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

You will lead machining efforts across CNC mills, lathes, prototype equipment, and fabrication tools to produce high-quality parts used in product development, testing, fixtures, and production ...

ALL AMERICAN RACERS INC

Lead Machinist

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$38 - $45/hr

Lead Machinist Job Status: Full Time Department: Machining Reports To: Machine Shop Manager FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Travel Requirements: NA Work Schedule: 6:00 A.M. - 2:30 P.M. Work Location: Santa ...

Johnson Service Group

Lead Machinist

Plymouth, IN · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

SG is recruiting for a Lead Machinist who will play a vital role in ensuring the smooth, efficient operation of state-of-the-art machinery for our client in Plymouth, Indiana. As a key leader within ...

Nordson Corporation

Lead Machinist

Clinton, SC · On-site

Ability to lead discussions with other departments, including status and updates of the machining group. * Follow safety procedures and guidelines in the assembly process. * Maintain a clean and ...

Nordson Corporation

Lead Machinist

Clinton, SC

Ability to lead discussions with other departments, including status and updates of the machining group. * Follow safety procedures and guidelines in the assembly process. * Maintain a clean and ...

Nordsonhcm

Lead Machinist

Clinton, SC

Responsible for advanced and routine machinery maintenance, running/visual tests on broken or worn parts while keeping inventory records of machine replacement parts. * Understands flow of production ...

Confidential

CNC Lead Machinist

Cary, IL

$32 - $36/hr

This is a working lead position for an experienced machinist who enjoys mentoring others while remaining hands-on with setups, production, troubleshooting, and process improvement. What You'll Do ...

Anonymous Employer

CNC Lead Machinist

Cary, IL

$32 - $36/hr

This is a working lead position for an experienced machinist who enjoys mentoring others while remaining hands-on with setups, production, troubleshooting, and process improvement. What You'll Do ...

Lawton Standard

CNC Lead Machinist

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Paul is looking for a CNC Lead Machinist for 2nd shift Are you a reliable employee looking for an exciting career in a growing organization? You'll be part of a family culture where your ...

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Lead Machinist information

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$15

$24

$35

How much do lead machinist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead machinist 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.

Can a machinist make 100k a year?

Lead machinists with extensive experience, advanced skills, and certifications can potentially earn $100,000 or more annually, especially in high-demand industries or specialized manufacturing environments. Factors such as location, overtime, and the complexity of work influence earning potential.

What is the difference between Lead Machinist vs Machinist?

AspectLead MachinistMachinist
CredentialsTypically requires certifications in machining and leadership experienceRequires technical training or certification in machining
Work EnvironmentSupervises teams in manufacturing or workshop settingsOperates machines directly in manufacturing environments
Employer UsageUsed in industries like aerospace, automotive, and heavy manufacturingCommon across various manufacturing sectors

The main difference between a Lead Machinist and a Machinist is that the Lead Machinist oversees and coordinates machining operations, often supervising other machinists, while the Machinist focuses on operating machines to produce parts. Both roles require technical skills, but the Lead Machinist also involves leadership and planning responsibilities.

What are some common challenges Lead Machinists face when overseeing a team in a manufacturing environment?

Lead Machinists often encounter challenges such as balancing hands-on machining tasks with supervisory duties, ensuring all team members adhere to safety protocols, and coordinating production schedules to meet deadlines. They are responsible for troubleshooting complex equipment issues and providing guidance to less experienced machinists, which requires strong technical knowledge and effective communication skills. Additionally, adapting to new technologies or processes and maintaining high quality standards under pressure are common aspects of the role.

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

To thrive as a Lead Machinist, you need advanced machining skills, in-depth knowledge of blueprint reading, and experience with quality control, typically supported by a technical diploma or apprenticeship. Proficiency in operating CNC machines, using CAD/CAM software, and familiarity with precision measuring instruments are essential. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help guide teams, ensure safety, and maintain production standards. These abilities are crucial for delivering accurate parts, optimizing workflow, and upholding quality in a manufacturing environment.

What are Lead Machinists?

Lead Machinists are experienced professionals responsible for overseeing machining operations in a manufacturing or workshop setting. They set up, operate, and maintain various machine tools such as lathes, mills, and grinders, ensuring parts are produced to precise specifications. In addition to their technical skills, Lead Machinists supervise and train other machinists, coordinate workflow, and help troubleshoot equipment or process issues. Their role is crucial in maintaining productivity, safety, and quality standards within the machine shop.

Can you make 6 figures as a machinist?

Lead machinists and experienced CNC machinists can earn six-figure salaries, especially with advanced skills, certifications, and experience in high-demand industries. Factors such as location, specialization, and the complexity of work influence earning potential, with some top earners working overtime or in supervisory roles. Entry-level machinists typically earn less, but salaries increase with expertise and responsibility.

What is the highest paid machinist?

The highest paid machinists are typically those with extensive experience, specialized skills, and certifications such as CNC programming or precision machining. Senior machinists working in high-demand industries or in regions with a high cost of living can earn salaries exceeding $70,000 annually, with some reaching over $100,000 in top-paying roles or managerial positions.

What does a lead machinist do?

A lead machinist supervises and coordinates machining operations, ensuring parts are produced accurately and efficiently. They often review blueprints, set up machines, and oversee a team of machinists, requiring strong technical skills and knowledge of machining tools and safety protocols.
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Lead Machinist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Machinist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% 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 Machinist

Lead Machinist

Rugged Suppressors

Travelers Rest, SC • On-site

$39 - $41/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Description


Lead Machinist Weekend Shift

Job Description

Lead machinist responsible for mastery for running and maintaining multiple multi-axis CNC machines. With tolerances to 0.0005", the lead machinist will instruct machinists how to perform quality checks, control scrap and manage set-up and tool changes. Materials processed include Stainless Steel, Titanium, Aluminum, and Acetyl of different grades and sizes.


The Lead Machinist will support manufacturing process optimization by working with Manufacturing Engineering and instruct machinists how to maintain and control settings for best machine utilization and quality. This role will help improve changeover efficiency by establishing standards for external and internal changeover steps to reduce downtime and improve first piece quality. These standards will then be use for machinist training and regular confirmation for effectiveness.


Reporting Approved

Manager, Manufacturing


Responsibilities

  • Gains comprehensive knowledge for all CNC production process programs, tooling, and gaging.
  • Reads, fully understands, and trains others on technical drawings, setup sheets, & control plans.
  • Works with Manufacturing Engineering to improve efficiency and quality for each component.
  • Contributes to improved detailed CNC program design and control.
  • improve changeover efficiency by establishing standards for external and internal changeover steps to reduce downtime and improve first piece quality.
  • Communicates effectively with peers, leaders, and support functions.
  • Applies critical thinking for efficient problem solving especially deep root cause analysis (5-why).
  • Demonstrates adaptability and appropriate interpersonal skills.


Requirements

Qualifications

  • Must be a U.S. Citizen due to ITAR regulations.
  • 10+ years relevant experience in manufacturing.
  • Familiarity with types and uses of various micrometers and other measuring devices
  • Able to lift 50 lbs. on occasion.
  • Requires constant standing, walking, sitting, and bending throughout the workday.
  • Must be able to work in a manufacturing environment, including working in and around moving parts, chemicals, lights/lasers, etc.
  • Must be able to wear all required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for the duration of work schedule


Compensation

Hourly non-exempt position, including health, vision, dental, & disability insurance, PTO, and 401K benefits.


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