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Lead Machinist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CNC Lead Machinist

Pewaukee, WI

$20 - $27.50/hr

Looking for an experience Swiss style CNC Machinist to join our team to take the lead on set-ups, and training/supporting operators. Position available on 1st or 2nd depending on preference. Please ...

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Machinist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

This position works under the direction of the Lead Machinist and is responsible for machining forged steel components while maintaining quality, safety, and production standards. Essential Duties ...

Machinist

Columbia, SC

$65K - $85K/yr

The Lead Machinist is responsible for Mastercam programming, CNC operations, and has strong knowledge of tools and machining techniques. This role requires strong problem-solving skills, the ability ...

Machinist Lead

Watertown, SD · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Production Lead - Machining Dakotaland Manufacturing | Full-Time | Nights Are you a skilled machinist who is ready to take the next step into leadership? Dakotaland Manufacturing is looking for a ...

Machinist

Columbia, SC · On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

The Lead Machinist is responsible for Mastercam programming, CNC operations, and has strong knowledge of tools and machining techniques. This role requires strong problem-solving skills, the ability ...

Machinist

Columbia, SC

$65K - $85K/yr

The Lead Machinist is responsible for Mastercam programming, CNC operations, and has strong knowledge of tools and machining techniques. This role requires strong problem-solving skills, the ability ...

Machinist

Columbia, SC · On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

The Lead Machinist is responsible for Mastercam programming, CNC operations, and has strong knowledge of tools and machining techniques. This role requires strong problem-solving skills, the ability ...

We are hiring an experienced CNC Mill Lead to support precision machining operations in a climate-controlled manufacturing environment. This role is hands-on and leadership-oriented, with ...

We are looking to add a motivated lead machinist to join our team to run their own CNC equipment cells in either or both the machining and turning work cells (Haas/Mazak). The position will be ...

Sr. Lead Machine Operator Our client, a major fishing and seafood processing company, is seeking an experienced Senior/Lead Machine Operator to oversee the operation of our bagging equipment (2 ...

Sr. Lead Machine Operator Our client, a major fishing and seafood processing company, is seeking an experienced Senior/Lead Machine Operator to oversee the operation of our bagging equipment (2 ...

Showing results 21-40

Lead Machinist information

See salary details

$15

$24

$35

How much do lead machinist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 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.

What is a lead machinist?

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lead machinist?

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 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 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.

Are lead machinists still in demand?

Lead machinists are still in demand due to ongoing manufacturing and maintenance needs in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and industrial equipment. Skilled machinists with experience in CNC machines and precision tools are particularly sought after, especially those with certifications and strong technical knowledge. Employment opportunities often depend on industry growth and regional manufacturing activity.
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Infographic showing various Lead Machinist job openings in the United States as of August 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.

Technical Lead Machinist, Multi-Turret

The Specialty Manufacturing Company

Saint Paul, MN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

The Specialty Manufacturing Company is seeking a Technical Lead for our Multi-Turret area. The Technical Lead is the bridge between engineering, production, and the shop floor. The role provides advanced technical support, process leadership, and daily guidance to machinists in a precision machining environment. This role ensures machining processes are optimized, setups are efficient, tooling is correct, and quality standards are consistently met. The Technical Lead acts as the go‑to expert for troubleshooting, training, and continuous improvement on the shop floor.
Essential Job Duties
  • Optimize machining processes — Improve cycle times, reduce scrap, and enhance tool life through parameter adjustments and process refinement.
  • Troubleshoot CNC issues — Diagnose and resolve tooling failures, dimensional issues, machine alarms, and setup challenges.
  • Program support — Assist with G‑code edits, offsets, toolpath adjustments, and program validation.
  • Document best practices — Create setup sheets, standard work instructions, and troubleshooting guides.
  • Tooling selection — Recommend cutting tools, holders, and fixtures to improve performance and reduce cost.
  • First‑piece validation — Verify setups, inspect initial parts, and ensure processes meet print requirements.
  • Lead daily shop activities — Provide direction to machinists, prioritize work, and ensure smooth workflow across machines.
  • Support new product introduction — Assist with prototype machining, process development, and tooling trials.
  • Train and Mentor machinists — support technical development in setups, measurement techniques, blueprint reading, and machine operations to current and new team members.
  • Mentor junior technicians — Support career growth and technical development for apprentices and new hires.
  • Support performance expectations — Reinforce quality, safety, and productivity standards through coaching and feedback.
  • Facilitate communication — Act as a liaison between engineering, quality, and production teams.
Minimum Qualifications
Education
  • High School Diploma or GED required
  • Associate degree in machining or engineering preferred
Experience and Knowledge
  • 5+ years experience in machining with proven technical aptitude in multi-turret functions
  • Advanced machining knowledge — CNC mills, lathes, multi‑axis equipment, and precision measurement tools.
  • Blueprint & GD&T proficiency — Ability to interpret complex prints and apply geometric tolerancing.
  • CNC programming familiarity — Experience with G‑code, CAM software, or machine controls (Fanuc, Haas, Mazak, etc.).
  • Training and Development – Proven abilities in developing technical capabilities of team members and enhancing training documentation
Work Environment
  • Fast‑paced machining environment with CNC mills, lathes, grinders, and inspection equipment.
  • Frequent hands‑on work with setups, tooling, and troubleshooting.
  • Collaboration with engineering, quality, and production leadership.
  • Ability to lift 50lbs throughout the workday
Compensation and Benefits
Expected Compensation Range: Hourly, non-exempt- $35-$50
Specialty Manufacturing is providing the compensation range that the company in good faith believes it might pay and offer for this position, based on the successful applicant’s education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities.
Specialty Mfg. provides a comprehensive suite of benefits including medical, dental, vision, disability, life, and retirement savings, focused on providing health and financial stability throughout the employee’s career. Specialty Mfg. operates an onsite work environment where employees are expected to work in the office 5 days per week.

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