Lead CNC Operator - Sheet Metal Fabrication

Panelmatic-Inc.-1; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 52,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision

HSA

Life + AD&D + LTD

401(k) match

Education reimbursement

PTO & holidays

Career advancement

Competitive wages

Family-friendly environment

Job summary

Panelmatic, Inc. is seeking an experienced CNC Machine Operator Lead to provide hands-on leadership in our fabrication department. You will operate, set up, and maintain CNC equipment while mentoring operators and ensuring high-quality sheet metal components are produced efficiently.

The ideal candidate has 3+ years of CNC experience, can read blueprints, and will drive safety, quality, and continuous improvement in a busy manufacturing environment.

Qualifications

• 3+ years CNC machine operation experience in a manufacturing or fabrication environment.
• Previous lead, trainer, or senior operator experience preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and technical drawings.
• Experience setting up, operating, and troubleshooting CNC equipment.
• Knowledge of sheet metal fabrication processes including cutting, bending, punching, and forming.
• Ability to use precision measuring tools and verify dimensional accuracy.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to train and support team members in a production environment.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing quality workmanship.

Responsibilities

• Provide daily guidance and support to CNC Machine Operators and fabrication team members.
• Assist with coordinating workflow, prioritizing jobs, and communicating production needs to department leadership.
• Set up, operate, and troubleshoot CNC machinery used to produce sheet metal components and assemblies.
• Load and unload raw materials, fixtures, and tooling while ensuring proper machine setup.
• Program, edit, and adjust CNC machine settings to meet job requirements and production specifications.
• Review blueprints, work orders, schematics, and fabrication drawings to determine required processes and dimensions.
• Select appropriate materials based on job specifications, strength requirements, and fabrication needs.
• Set up and align sheet metal parts for CNC operations and final fabrication assembly.
• Operate fabrication equipment including CNC machines, brakes, shears, and other metalworking equipment.
• Cut, bend, punch, and shape sheet metal components according to specifications.
• Verify dimensions and quality of completed parts using measuring tools such as calipers, squares, rulers, and measuring tapes.
• Perform quality checks to ensure parts meet blueprint requirements and notify inspectors or leadership when products are ready for review.
• Troubleshoot machine issues, tooling concerns, and production challenges to minimize downtime.
• Assist with equipment startups, shutdowns, and changeovers as required
• Train and mentor CNC operators on safe machine operation, setup procedures, and quality expectations
• Maintain accurate production records, job documentation, and repair notes
• Perform routine maintenance, cleaning, and inspections on CNC equipment
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment
• Ensure tools, equipment, and materials are properly stored after use
• Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, efficiency, and productivity
• Perform other duties as assigned

Skills

CNC operation

Lead/Training

Blueprint reading

Setup & troubleshooting

Sheet metal fabrication

Measuring tools

Quality control

Team coaching

Attention to detail

Job description

Panelmatic, Inc. is seeking an experienced CNC Machine Operator Lead to provide hands-on leadership in our fabrication department. You will operate, set up, and maintain CNC equipment while mentoring operators and ensuring high-quality sheet metal components are produced efficiently.

The ideal candidate has 3+ years of CNC experience, can read blueprints, and will drive safety, quality, and continuous improvement in a busy manufacturing environment.