Lead Machinist - Lathe

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the Engineering Department and Machine Operators to set up CNC lathes and turning centers for first-time runs and repeat production, ensuring conforming parts and stable production processes.
• Conduct first-piece inspections using precision measuring tools to verify lathe setup accuracy, dimensional conformance, and process readiness.
• Troubleshoot turning, workholding, tooling, insert, offset, and cycle issues on CNC lathes; collaborate with programming staff to implement effective solutions.
• Lead CNC lathe operators by providing coaching, setup guidance, and clear handoff instructions during machine turnover for production.
• Measure, examine, or test completed turned components for defects, ensuring conformance to specifications.
• Strong understanding of GD&T and blueprint reading is essential.
• Monitor lathe machining times, improve setup repeatability, optimize efficiency, and recommend techniques or methods to refine existing lathe programs and processes.
• Provide accurate feedback to Programmers on lathe program issues, tooling performance, workholding improvements, and production optimization opportunities.

Requirements

• Technical School Certificate in machining is preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in a custom machine shop, with strong hands-on experience setting up CNC lathes and turning centers.
• Familiarity with Fanuc-based lathe controls, Okuma, DMG Mori, and similar CNC lathe control platforms.
• Proficiency in G & M programming codes, offsets, tool touch-offs, insert selection, workholding, and lathe setup documentation.
• Experience in the defense or aerospace industry is preferred, including AS9100 production environments.
• Extensive experience machining tight-tolerance castings and precision turned components is required.