CNC Cell Lead – Large-Scale Milling & G-Code Optimization(2nd or 3rd Shift)

True North Consultants, Inc.; Duluth (MN); On-site; USD 28,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

True North Consultants, Inc. is seeking a skilled CNC Cell Lead for large-scale milling operations in the Duluth, MN area. This direct-hire role offers a fixed 2nd or 3rd shift, an hourly rate up to $34 with profit sharing, and a path to technical leadership.

You will own independent setups on multi-axis milling centers, edit G-code at the controller, mentor junior operators, and collaborate with design engineering and welding teams to optimize high-strength steel components.

Qualifications

• Requires 2-year technical diploma or associate degree in CNC machining.
• Experience with independent setups on large milling centers.
• Proficiency editing controller-level G&M code and GD&T.
• Able to diagnose tool wear and adjust cutting parameters.
• US work authorization and within commuting distance of Duluth, MN / Superior, WI.

Responsibilities

• Perform complex independent setups on large-scale CNC milling centers.
• Edit and optimize G-code at the controller.
• Interpret prints and apply GD&T to sequences.
• Conduct first-article inspections with precision metrology.
• Collaborate with design engineering and welding teams.
• Provide floor leadership and mentor junior operators.

Skills

G-code editing

Independent setups

Multi-axis milling

GD&T understanding

Mentoring

Education

2-Year CNC Diploma

Tools

Mastercam

Job description

CNC Cell Lead – Large-Scale Milling & G-Code Optimization (2nd or 3rd Shift)

Up to $34.00/hr + Profit Sharing Duluth, MN / Superior, WI Area 2nd or 3rd Shift Direct-Hire

• Pay & Incentives: Baseline starting rate up to $34.00/hr (scaling directly with setup depth) + corporate profit sharing, premium overtime eligibility, and a comprehensive benefits package.
• Work Pattern/Schedule: Fixed 2nd or 3rd Shift schedule (Monday – Friday), providing consistent off-shift routine stability and lead-track responsibility.
• Environment & Company Profile: Direct-hire, lead-track position with a premier global market leader in heavy equipment attachment manufacturing (scrap, construction, demolition); supportive, family-oriented culture that celebrates technical craftsmanship.
• Core Functional Scope: Independent setups on large-scale CNC milling centers, controller-level G&M code editing, unproven program optimization, complex fixture alignments, GD&T execution, and junior operator mentorship.
• Strict Requirements & Authorization: Requires 2-Year Technical Diploma or Associate Degree in CNC Machining / Machine Tool Technology, proven depth in independent setups on large milling centers, US work authorization, and a local commute to Duluth, MN / Superior, WI.

If you are a degreed machinist looking to step away from mundane, high-volume production where operators are treated like basic "button pushers", this lead-track cell seat is built for you. Our client is a premier, global market leader in heavy equipment attachment manufacturing serving the scrap recycling, construction, and demolition sectors.

Experiencing continuous expansion, this financially sound manufacturer offers a family-oriented environment where technical craftsmanship is genuinely celebrated. In this high-autonomy role, you will own the setups on large-scale milling centers, handle complex high-strength steel components, and collaborate directly with design engineering and welding teams. Enjoy a dedicated off-shift schedule, clear technical leadership progression, and direct financial participation through corporate profit sharing.

What You Will Be Doing (Daily Responsibilities)

• Perform Complex Independent Setups: Execute complete, independent setups and operations on large-scale CNC milling centers and multi-axis machine tools.
• Edit & Optimize G-Code: Edit G&M codes and optimize program paths directly at the controller to safely machine precision components from high-strength steels and alloys.
• Blueprint & GD&T Execution: Interpret complex engineering prints and apply strict Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) standards to establish optimal operation sequences.
• Precision Inspection: Conduct first-article inspections using specialized precision metrology tools (bore gauges, micrometers, calipers) to ensure full tolerance compliance.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with design engineers and welding fabrication teams to resolve setup roadblocks, conduct DFM reviews, and optimize workflow efficiency.
• Provide Floor Leadership: Provide shop floor leadership and mentorship, coaching junior operators on setup techniques, tool selection, and safe cell operation.

What We Are Looking For (Requirements & Qualifications)

• Required Education: 2-Year Technical Diploma or Associate Degree in CNC Machining or Machine Tool Technology.
• Heavy Machining Depth: Demonstrated background executing independent setups on large milling centers and machining close-tolerance, complex workpieces.
• Technical Literacy: Proficiency with controller-level G&M code editing, unproven program optimization, and GD&T principles.
• Diagnostic Intuition: Expert problem-solving skills to adjust cutting parameters, evaluate tool wear, and prevent deflection on active runs.
• Employment Stability: A solid, progressive work history demonstrating long-term tenure and technical growth with prior employers.
• Location & Authorization: U.S. Citizenship or Green Card holder residing within a comfortable daily driving radius of the Greater Duluth, MN / Superior, WI area.

Preferred Technical Assets (Bonus Skills)

• Multi-Axis Expertise: Experience with multi-axis configurations (5-axis machining or live-tool turning experience is a major bonus; internal cross-training available).
• High-Strength Metallurgy: Experience machining heavy weldments, structural castings, or tough alloys (e.g., AR400/500, high-yield steels).
• CAD/CAM & Offline Simulation: Familiarity with Mastercam or offline program verification software.