Lead CNC Machinist: Multi‑Axis Expert & Team Leader

Divergent; Long Beach (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Divergent in Long Beach, CA, is seeking a Lead CNC Machinist to coordinate daily machining operations, mentor technicians, and drive process improvements on multi-axis CNC equipment. This role requires strong leadership, advanced GD&T, and the ability to troubleshoot complex setups across shifts.

You will own setups, validate machining strategies, and collaborate with engineering to improve manufacturability and efficiency while maintaining safety and quality.

Qualifications

• 5–8 years of CNC machining experience with strong multi-axis machining expertise.
• Demonstrated experience or strong aptitude for leading peers, coordinating workloads, and mentoring junior technicians.
• Advanced proficiency with Siemens and Heidenhain controllers.
• Advanced understanding of GD&T and machining process optimization.
• Demonstrated experience troubleshooting complex machining processes and setups.

Responsibilities

• Act as a floor lead, coordinating the work of peer machinists, managing a high workload, and providing daily direction to maintain production continuity across shifts.
• Serve as a dedicated mentor to less-experienced team members; assist the supervisor and act as their delegate when required.
• Foster strong fundamentals and cross-team collaboration, serving as a cultural and technical role model on the shop floor.
• Lead setup and operation of advanced CNC equipment including 3-axis, 3+2, and 5-axis machining centers.
• Support machining execution for complex prototype and production hardware.
• Apply advanced GD&T knowledge to validate setups and machining strategies.
• Troubleshoot complex machining challenges including tooling performance, fixture alignment, machine limitations, and process instability.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to improve manufacturability and machining efficiency.
• Develop and refine machining strategies including tooling, fixturing, setup methodology, and programming approaches.

Skills

CNC machining

Leadership

GD&T

Troubleshooting

Setup optimization

Tools

Siemens controllers

Heidenhain controllers

Job description

Divergent in Long Beach, CA, is seeking a Lead CNC Machinist to coordinate daily machining operations, mentor technicians, and drive process improvements on multi-axis CNC equipment. This role requires strong leadership, advanced GD&T, and the ability to troubleshoot complex setups across shifts.

You will own setups, validate machining strategies, and collaborate with engineering to improve manufacturability and efficiency while maintaining safety and quality.