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Lead Machinist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rugged Suppressors

Lead Machinist

Travelers Rest, SC · On-site

$39 - $41/hr

Job Type Full-time 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 ...

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 ...

Rugged Design Inc

Lead Machinist

Travelers Rest, SC · On-site

$39 - $41/hr

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 instruct ...

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 ...

Ametek

Lead Machinist

Broken Arrow, OK · On-site

The Lead Machinist is responsible for overseeing complex machining operations, leading setups, and serving as the primary technical resource in the machine shop. This position helps train and mentor ...

Zoo

Lead Machinist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

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

$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 ...

Apex Space & Defense Systems

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 ...

Ametek

Lead Machinist

Broken Arrow, OK

$70K/yr

The Lead Machinist is responsible for overseeing complex machining operations, leading setups, and serving as the primary technical resource in the machine shop. This position helps train and mentor ...

Ametek

Lead Machinist

Broken Arrow, OK

$70K/yr

The Lead Machinist is responsible for overseeing complex machining operations, leading setups, and serving as the primary technical resource in the machine shop. This position helps train and mentor ...

Ametek

Lead Machinist

Broken Arrow, OK · On-site

The Lead Machinist is responsible for overseeing complex machining operations, leading setups, and serving as the primary technical resource in the machine shop. This position helps train and mentor ...

Ametek

Lead Machinist

Broken Arrow, OK

$70K - $85K/yr

The Lead Machinist is responsible for overseeing complex machining operations, leading setups, and serving as the primary technical resource in the machine shop. This position helps train and mentor ...

All American Racers

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 ...

ST Engineering

Lead Machinist

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$26.60 - $39/hr

Who YOU are and what YOU can become As the Lead Machinist, you will work in a prototype, development, and production support machine shop responsible for making one-off, precision details. Primarily ...

Stratolaunch

Lead Machinist

Mojave, CA · On-site

The lead machinist position will create parts, CNC Programs, tools and fixtures and will work with engineers and shop personnel to ensure the end part meets its intended need. This position will be ...

STENA

Lead Machinist

Baltimore, MD

$26.60 - $39/hr

Who YOU are and what YOU can become As the Lead Machinist, you will work in a prototype, development, and production support machine shop responsible for making one-off, precision details. Primarily ...

Aegis Worldwide

Lead Machinist

Saint Charles, IL · On-site

$30 - $34/hr

Confidential CNC Lead Opportunity -- St. Charles, IL A well-established custom industrial manufacturer in the western suburbs of Chicago is seeking a CNC Lead to support its machine shop operations.

Stratolaunch

Lead Machinist

Mojave, CA

The lead machinist position will create parts, CNC Programs, tools and fixtures and will work with engineers and shop personnel to ensure the end part meets its intended need. This position will be ...

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Lead Machinist information

See salary details

$15

$24

$35

How much do lead machinist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 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, employer, and overtime opportunities also 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 with extensive experience, specialized skills, and certifications can earn six-figure salaries, especially in high-demand industries or regions with a high cost of living. Factors such as overtime, advanced CNC programming, and supervisory responsibilities can also contribute to higher earnings.

What is the highest paid machinist job?

The highest paid machinist roles are often senior or specialized positions such as CNC programmer or precision machinist, especially those working in aerospace, defense, or oil and gas industries. These roles typically require advanced skills, certifications, and experience, and can offer salaries exceeding $70,000 annually depending on location and expertise.

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 tools like lathes and mills.
More about Lead Machinist jobs
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What job categories do people searching Lead Machinist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Lead Machinist jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Lead Machinist jobs? For Lead Machinist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Lead Machinist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Machinist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person 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

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
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.
Salary Description
$39.00-$41.00

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