Lead CNC Machinist - 5-Axis & Precision Manufacturing

Ward Leonard.; Thomaston (GA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Ward Leonard, a Fairbanks Morse Defense company, seeks an accomplished Lead CNC Machinist to guide precision machining in defense applications. This hands-on leadership role focuses on multi-axis CNC equipment, process optimization, and mentoring a skilled team.

You will oversee setup, programming, and operation of multi-axis lathes, VTLs, 5-axis mill-turns, and cylindrical grinding machines, partnering with engineering and quality to meet demanding tolerances and schedules.

Qualifications

• 7–10 years operating and setting up multi-axis CNC machines including VTLs/5-axis mill-turn.
• Leadership experience in a shop-floor environment.
• Advanced GD&T and tight-tolerance machining.
• Proficiency with manual inspection tools and automated measurement systems.
• Familiarity with FANUC, Siemens, or OSP (Okuma) controls.
• ISO 9001 or defense manufacturing experience.
• U.S. Person status to comply with defense contracts.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor CNC machinists in daily operations and safety protocols.
• Set up and operate multi-axis CNC lathes, VTLs, 5-axis mill-turns, and cylindrical grinders.
• Oversee CNC program optimization for performance, tool life, and part quality; assist with complex setups.
• Train team on tooling, workholding, G-code editing, and inspection methods.
• Review blueprints and GD&T to ensure customer/quality compliance.
• Coordinate in-process and final inspections with metrology tools.

Skills

CNC Machining

Leadership

GD&T

Measurement Tools

G-code / Tooling

CMM / Probes

Multi-axis Controls (Fanuc/Siemens/OSP

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Machining training/certification

Tools

CMMs

G-code editors

Touch probes

Job description

Ward Leonard, a Fairbanks Morse Defense company, seeks an accomplished Lead CNC Machinist to guide precision machining in defense applications. This hands-on leadership role focuses on multi-axis CNC equipment, process optimization, and mentoring a skilled team.

You will oversee setup, programming, and operation of multi-axis lathes, VTLs, 5-axis mill-turns, and cylindrical grinding machines, partnering with engineering and quality to meet demanding tolerances and schedules.