Lead CNC Mill Machinist

Elgen Staffing; Indian Trail (NC); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Elgen Staffing seeks a Lead CNC Mill Machinist for a precision parts manufacturer in Indian Trail, NC. You will set up and operate CNC milling centers, adjust fixtures, load/unload parts, and optimize tool life while maintaining tight tolerances.

You’ll mentor junior machinists, review prints with GD&T, and lead continuous improvement initiatives to reduce cycle times. Experience with Haas/Okuma, G-code, and CAM is preferred.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of hands-on CNC machining in a production environment.
• Strong G-code programming and editing skills.
• Familiarity with CAM software such as Mastercam or SolidCAM.
• Ability to set up complex 3- to 5-axis milling machines.
• Proficient in reading blueprints and GD&T symbols.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC milling centers to produce parts per specifications.
• Edit and optimize CNC programs to improve cycle times and tool life.
• Perform first-article inspections and in-process quality checks with micrometers and calipers.
• Troubleshoot machining issues and support continuous improvement initiatives.

Skills

CNC machining

G-code programming

CAM software (Mastercam/SolidCAM)

3- to 5-axis milling

Blueprint reading & GD&T

Haas/Okuma experience

Tools

Haas

Okuma

Job description

Our client, a precision parts and assemblies manufacturer, has an immediate need for an experienced Lead CNC Mill Machinist, to join our winning team in Indian Trail.

Key Responsibilities

• CNC Machine Setup & Operation: Set up and operate CNC vertical machining centers (VMCs) to produce parts according to specifications, including adjusting fixtures, setting tool/work offsets, and loading/unloading parts as needed. Work extensively with Haas and Okuma CNC equipment or similar machines, ensuring they are correctly configured and fully utilized for optimal production throughput.
• Program Editing & Optimization: Edit and adjust CNC programs (G-code) at the machine to refine operations for maximum efficiency, quality, and tool life. Optimize speeds, feeds, and cutter paths to reduce cycle times and improve part quality while maintaining tight tolerances in a production setting.
• Precision Measurement & Quality Control: Conduct first-article inspections and in-process quality checks using precision measuring tools (e.g., micrometers, calipers, height gauges, bore gauges, dial indicators) to verify dimensions and tolerances.
• Ensure manufactured parts meet blueprint specifications and GD&T requirements before and during production runs, immediately addressing any out-of-tolerance conditions.
• Troubleshooting & Continuous Improvement: Diagnose and resolve machining issues such as tooling wear, program errors, or machine malfunctions in real‑time.
• Adjust machine controls or modify programs on the fly to maintain part quality and prevent scrap or downtime. Lead or support continuous improvement initiatives (e.g., Lean manufacturing, 5S) to optimize cycle times, improve repeatability, and reduce waste in the machining process.
• Tooling & Fixture Management: Select appropriate cutting tools, tool holders, inserts, and fixtures for each job to ensure efficient machining and safe operations.
• Align and secure fixtures/workholding devices accurately; design or modify jigs and fixtures when needed to improve productivity and repeatability.
• Process Documentation & Verification: Document and maintain setup sheets, tool lists, and process notes for new and repeat jobs, ensuring that setups can be replicated consistently and that work instructions are up-to-date. Verify that all machining processes adhere to company standards and regulatory requirements, updating documentation as processes are refined.
• Leadership & Mentorship: Act as a lead machinist on the shop floor, providing guidance and technical support to CNC Machinists I & II and operators. Mentor junior machinists in best practices for machine setup, operation, and safety; assist colleagues in solving complex machining problems and share expertise to build the team’s skill level. While not a direct supervisor, take initiative in coordinating workflow for your cell or team to maintain efficiency and meet production schedules.
• Collaboration & Communication: Work closely with Production Supervisors, Manufacturing Engineers, and Quality Assurance to review part designs, recommend Design for Manufacturability (DFM) improvements, and implement process changes that enhance productivity and quality. Communicate effectively with cross-functional teams (production control, engineering, maintenance, quality) to swiftly address issues and keep production on track.
• Equipment Maintenance & Safety: Perform routine maintenance and basic troubleshooting on CNC machinery to ensure optimum performance and minimize downtime. Keep the work area and equipment clean, organized, and safe at all times, following all company safety policies, OSHA regulations, and quality standards. Promptly report any equipment malfunctions or safety hazards, and maintain a strong focus on shop floor safety and housekeeping.

Key Requirements

• Experience: 5+ years of hands‑on CNC machining experience (preferably 5‑10+ years) in a production or high‑volume manufacturing environment, with extensive background setting up and operating CNC milling machines (vertical machining centers). Prior experience with Haas or Okuma CNC machinery is strongly preferred.
• Technical Proficiency: Advanced CNC skills – including proficient G‑code programming and editing, as well as familiarity with CAM software (e.g., Mastercam, SolidCAM, or similar) to interpret or modify programs. Capable of independently setting up complex 3‑axis (and ideally 4‑or‑5‑axis) CNC mills, making fine adjustments to programs and tool paths for precision results.
• Blueprint Reading & GD&T: In‑depth ability to read and interpret engineering blueprints, technical drawings, and GD&T symbols to determine machining processes, critical dimensions, and tolerances.
• Competence in calculating dimensions and layout using shop math (geometry, trigonometry) for part fabrication is expected.