Machinist Lead

About the role

This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who enjoys leading by example, supporting team members, solving problems, and producing high-quality precision parts. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment and take pride in mentoring others while keeping production moving, we want to hear from you.

Responsibilities

• Cook up and oversee daily operations within the machining area to ensure production meets safety, quality, and delivery expectations
• Assign work priorities and monitor output to maintain schedules, specifications, and established procedures
• Train, mentor, and support team members on safe work practices, quality standards, and performance expectations
• Set up, adjust, and operate CNC machines, mills, lathes, and related equipment to produce precision components
• Select, align, and secure tools, fixtures, and materials while regulating feeds and speeds for efficient machine performance
• Measure, inspect, and verify finished parts using precision instruments to ensure conformance to engineering requirements
• Perform basic maintenance and calibration of equipment while maintaining a clean, organized, and safe work area
• Conduct spot inspections, identify quality or process issues, and support problem-solving efforts to prevent recurrence
• Communicate daily with the Production Supervisor regarding production status, team performance, and training needs
• Support continuous improvement and 5S efforts to improve safety, quality, and efficiency
• Participate in employee performance discussions and provide input for evaluations and personnel decisions
• Ensure compliance with company policies, PPE requirements, and environmental standards

Requirements

• 2+ years of CNC lathe setup and operation experience required
• Lathe setup and operation experience required
• Ability to read and understand engineering drawings, blueprints, and shop drawing aids
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to multitask and work independently
• Forklift experience preferred
• Good verbal and written communication skills
• Strong teamwork orientation and ability to adapt in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
• High school diploma or GED preferred
• Advanced education is a plus

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred
• Advanced education is a plus

Skills

• Leadership
• Problem-solving
• Multitasking
• Teamwork
• Communication
• Quality control
• Machine operation
• Equipment maintenance
• Continuous improvement

Benefits

• Low-cost insurance
• 8 paid holidays + 24 hours of floating holiday
• PTO
• 401(k) with up to 4% company match

Pay

$24-$30 per hour, depending on experience + 12.5%-night shift differential

Schedule

Monday-Thursday
3:30 p.m. - 2:00 a.m.
Overtime as required

Why Dakotaland Manufacturing?

We are committed to building better — better people, better products, and better processes. We value leaders who promote teamwork, continuous improvement, accountability, and safety while living out our Vision, Mission, Values, and UPSCALE culture every day.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Dakotaland Manufacturing is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment for all employees.