Area Lead CNC Machinist – Aerospace (3-12s)

RTCA; Rockford (MI); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision

401(k) with company match

Paid time off

Shift differential

Discretionary bonus

Life insurance

Long-term disability

Job summary

RTCA is a precision aerospace and defense manufacturing group with decades of hands-on machining expertise, operating 150+ CNC machines and over 250 professionals across North America. The Area Lead role is a hands-on CNC Machinist who guides a work cell, coordinating workflow, quality, safety, and training to ensure aerospace production runs smoothly.

The position is full-time, onsite in Rockford, MI, 5am–5:30pm across 3 shifts, with a $3/hr shift differential.

Qualifications

• Several years of CNC machining experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably aerospace.
• Strong knowledge of CNC machining, setups, blueprints, GD&T, and inspection practices.
• Demonstrated ability to lead by example and effectively support and train others.
• Strong communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Ability to balance production responsibilities with team coordination.

Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day operations within an assigned area, department, or shift.
• Coordinate daily workflow and assist with prioritizing work to meet production schedules.
• Provide day-to-day guidance, training, and support to CNC Operators and Machinists.
• Monitor quality, safety, and procedural compliance, addressing issues as they arise.
• Assist with troubleshooting production, tooling, and process issues, escalating when appropriate.

Skills

CNC Machining

Team Leadership

GD&T

Blueprints

Communication

Problem Solving

Tools

ERP/MRP Systems

Production Scheduling

Job description

RTCA is a precision aerospace and defense manufacturing group with decades of hands-on machining expertise, operating 150+ CNC machines and over 250 professionals across North America. The Area Lead role is a hands-on CNC Machinist who guides a work cell, coordinating workflow, quality, safety, and training to ensure aerospace production runs smoothly.

The position is full-time, onsite in Rockford, MI, 5am–5:30pm across 3 shifts, with a $3/hr shift differential.