CNC Department Lead - 1st shift

SITE Staffing Inc.; Milwaukee (WI); On-site; USD 80,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

SITE Staffing Inc. is seeking a CNC Department Lead in Milwaukee, WI to lead a small team of CNC Operators. This direct-hire role focuses on programming, setup, and process improvement in a high-precision shop environment with tolerances to ±0.0005 inches.

You will train operators, read blueprints, and collaborate with Engineering and Quality to deliver accurate parts on tight schedules. Competitive compensation is provided for a hands-on leader who thrives in a busy, shop-floor setting.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of CNC leadership or progressive machining/programming experience.
• Proficient with tight tolerance CNC machining (±0.0005”).
• Strong knowledge of Mazak machines and Mazatrol programming.
• Conversational programming experience (ProtoTRAK, Milltronics).

Responsibilities

• Program and machine parts on CNC equipment (Mazak, Toshiba, Okuma, Sharp, Viper, ProtoTRAK, Milltronics) using MasterCAM and on-machine programming.
• Lead setup, tool selection, fixturing, and in-process inspections for tight-tolerance parts.
• Troubleshoot machining issues and optimize processes to improve part quality and reduce cycle time.
• Develop and train CNC Operators in programming, inspection techniques, and machining best practices.
• Read and interpret blueprints, mechanical drawings, and specifications.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Quality, and Management to plan efficient production methods.
• Ensure high-quality finishes, dimensional accuracy, and adherence to inspection and quality requirements.

Skills

CNC leadership

MasterCAM

Mazak/Mazatrol

ProtoTRAK

Milltronics

GD&T

Blueprint reading

Tools

Mazak

Mazatrol

MasterCAM

ProtoTRAK

Milltronics

Job description

Job Title: CNC Department Lead Shift: 1st Shift Location: Milwaukee, WI Compensation: $80,000 – $150,000 (Direct Hire)

Our client, a well-established, second-generation family-owned machine shop in Milwaukee, is aggressively seeking a talented, motivated, and experienced CNC Department Lead to join their team. This is a direct hire opportunity offering competitive pay and a collaborative work environment. The company specializes in one-off and short-run orders, demanding precision and creativity without the luxury of setup pieces. With features requiring tolerances as tight as ±0.0005”, this role requires a leader who thrives in detail-driven, high-accuracy machining environments. As the CNC Department Lead, you will not only program and run machines but also train and lead a team of 4–6 CNC Operators, working closely with the President, Process Engineer, and Quality Manager to deliver superior results.

Key Responsibilities

• Program and machine parts on a variety of CNC equipment (Mazak, Toshiba, Okuma, Sharp, Viper, ProtoTRAK, Milltronics) using both MasterCAM and on-machine programming.
• Lead setup, tool selection, fixturing, and in-process inspections for complex, tight-tolerance parts.
• Troubleshoot machining issues and optimize processes to improve part quality and reduce cycle time.
• Develop and train CNC Operators in programming, inspection techniques, and machining best practices.
• Read and interpret blueprints, mechanical drawings, and specifications.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Quality, and Management teams to plan efficient, cost-effective production methods.
• Ensure high-quality finishes, dimensional accuracy, and adherence to all inspection and quality requirements.
• Maintain documentation, complete required inspections, and report deviations or issues.
• Enforce and promote a safety-first culture within the department.

Required Skills & Experience

• 2+ years of CNC leadership or progressive machining/programming experience.
• Proficient with tight tolerance CNC machining (±0.0005”).
• Intermediate to advanced MasterCAM programming skills.
• Strong knowledge of Mazak machines and Mazatrol programming.
• Conversational programming experience (ProtoTRAK, Milltronics).
• Familiar with G & M code, cutting tools, feeds, speeds, and tooling selection.
• Skilled in blueprint reading, GD&T, and precision measurement (micrometers, calipers, depth gauges, etc.).
• Strong organizational and problem-solving abilities.
• Effective communicator and team leader with the ability to train and guide others.

Additional Requirements

• Exceptional attendance record.
• Forklift and overhead crane training (required or willing to obtain).
• Valid driver’s license preferred.
• Ability to work independently and lead by example in a hands-on environment.
• Comfortable working in a shop environment with moderate noise, heavy machinery, and overhead cranes.

Physical Requirements

• Frequent: stand, walk, use hands, lift up to 50 lbs, climb, bend, kneel, or crouch.
• Occasional: talk, hear. May require respirator fit testing.

Work Environment

• Indoor machine shop with regular exposure to:
• Forklift traffic
• Overhead cranes
• Moving mechanical parts
• Airborne particles
• Moderate noise levels