CNC Machine Cell Lead – Multi-Axis Milling & Fixture Setups

Keystone Distinction Group; Duluth (MN); On-site; USD 39,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Profit Sharing

Comprehensive Benefits

Flexible start times

Job summary

Keystone Distinction Group in the Duluth, MN/ Superior, WI area seeks a CNC Machine Cell Lead to manage large-scale milling centers and complex fixture setups. Earn up to $34/hour + profit sharing and comprehensive benefits. Exclusive 1st shift with flexible start times.

You will own setups, edit G&M codes, and collaborate with design and welding teams. Requires a 2-year technical diploma or associate degree in CNC Machining and strong multi-axis experience.

Qualifications

• 2-year technical diploma or associate degree in CNC Machining or Machine Tool Technology.
• Proven mastery of independent tool/fixture setups and controller-level G&M code editing.
• Experience with multi-axis machining (5-axis or live-tool turning a plus).

Responsibilities

• Perform complete, independent setups on large-scale CNC milling centers.
• Edit G&M codes and optimize program paths at the controller to machine precision parts.
• Interpret complex engineering prints and apply GD&T standards to establish operation sequences.
• Conduct first-article inspections using precision metrology tools to ensure tolerance compliance.
• Collaborate with design engineers and welding teams to resolve setup roadblocks and improve workflow.
• Provide shop floor leadership and mentor junior operators on setup techniques and tool selection.
• Maintain cell safety and 5S standards, plus basic preventative maintenance.

Skills

G&M code editing

Multi-axis machining

Mentorship

Education

2‑year technical diploma or associate degree in CNC Machining

Tools

Controller-level programming

Job description

CNC Machine Cell Lead – Multi-Axis Milling & Fixture Setups

Up to $34.00/Hour + Profit Sharing Duluth, MN / Superior, WI Area Exclusive 1st Shift

• COMPENSATION: Up to $34.00/Hour Baseline Starting Rate (scaling directly with setup depth) + Premium Overtime + Corporate Profit Sharing + Comprehensive Benefits
• WORK SCHEDULE: Exclusive 1st Shift | Monday – Friday (Flexible start windows available: 6:00 AM, 7:00 AM, or 8:00 AM)
• EDUCATION: 2-Year Technical Diploma or Associate’s Degree in CNC Machining or Machine Tool Technology required
• EXPERIENCE: Proven mastery of independent tool/fixture setups, controller-level G&M code editing, and unproven program optimization on large-scale milling centers
• TECHNICAL DEPTH: Complex multi-axis machining background (5-axis or live-tool turning experience is a strong plus)
• ROLE HIGHLIGHTS: Lead-track position providing mentorship to junior operators, conducting DFM reviews with design engineers, and owning complex setup runs
• REQUIREMENTS: US Citizen or Green Card holder residing within a dependable daily commuting radius of the Duluth, MN / Superior, WI area

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. The employer 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 fabrications, and collaborate directly with design engineering and welding teams. The company protects your work-life balance with a dedicated 1st shift schedule, flexible morning start times, and direct financial participation through corporate profit sharing.

What You Will Be Doing (Daily Responsibilities)

• Perform complete, independent setups and operations on large-scale CNC milling centers and multi-axis machine tools.
• Edit G&M codes and optimize program paths directly at the controller to safely machine precision components from high-strength steels and alloys.
• Interpret complex engineering prints and apply strict Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) standards to establish optimal operation sequences.
• Conduct first-article inspections using specialized precision metrology tools (bore gauges, micrometers, calipers) to ensure 100% tolerance compliance.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with design engineers and welding fabrication teams to resolve setup roadblocks and optimize workflow efficiency.
• Provide shop floor leadership and mentorship, coaching junior operators on setup techniques, tool selection, and safe cell operation.
• Maintain cell safety and asset care, performing basic preventative maintenance and upholding clean 5S standards.

What We Are Looking For (Requirements & Qualifications)

• Education: 2-Year Technical Diploma or Associate Degree in CNC Machining / Machine Tool Technology required.
• Heavy Machining Depth: Demonstrated background executing independent setups on large milling centers and machining close-tolerance, complex workpieces.
• Multi-Axis Capability: Understanding of multi-axis configurations (5-axis machining or live-tool turning experience is a major bonus; internal cross-training available).
• Technical Literacy: Proficiency with controller-level G&M code editing, unproven program optimization, and GD&T principles.
• Diagnostic Instincts: Expert problem-solving skills to adjust cutting parameters and evaluate tool wear on active runs.
• Career Stability: A solid, progressive work history demonstrating long-term tenure and technical growth with prior employers.
• Local Proximity: Residing within a comfortable daily driving radius of the Greater Duluth, MN / Superior, WI area.