Machine Shop Lead

Accelera; Goldsboro (NC); On-site; USD 85,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

Accelera is seeking an experienced machining leader to oversee daily shop floor operations in our North Carolina aerospace facility. You will remain hands-on, performing setups and guiding staff while solving complex machining challenges.

The role requires 5+ years in precision machining, strong GD&T and G-code/M-code skills, and proficiency with Mastercam and 3-, 4-, and 5-axis CNC centers. Excellence in quality and safety is essential.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Trade School certification is considered an asset.
• At least 5 years of professional machining experience.
• Background in aerospace manufacturing with knowledge of ISO 9001 or AS9100 quality systems.
• Comprehensive knowledge of blueprint reading, GD&T, and machining processes.
• Competency in interpreting M-code and G-code.
• Practical experience with turning and milling CNC operations.
• Expertise in setting up and running CNC equipment using controls such as Fanuc, Mazak, Haas, or Hurco.
• Familiarity with precision measurement tools like height gauges, micrometers, gauge blocks, and calipers.
• Experience operating 4-axis horizontal and 3-, 4-, and 5-axis vertical machining centers.
• Proficiency in Mastercam CAD/CAM software.
• Experience using SolidWorks.
• Capability in CMM programming, specifically with CMM Manager.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe work environment.
• Strong attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily shop floor operations while remaining hands-on with production tasks.
• Serve as the technical SME for machinists and operators.
• Manage workflows across 3-, 4-, and 5-axis centers and related equipment.
• Set up machines, run prove-outs, troubleshoot, and optimize tooling.
• Analyze and modify G-code and M-code at the machine level.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Quality, and Programming on prototypes.
• Maintain AS9100/ISO 9001 compliance and lead first article inspections.
• Mentor staff, promote safety, and drive continuous process improvements.

Skills

G-code

M-code

GD&T

5-axis CNC

CNC setup

CNC controls

Mastercam

SolidWorks

CMM Manager

Education

High School Diploma

Trade School certification

Tools

GibbsCAM

Esprit

Mastercam

CMM Manager

Job description

This hands-on leadership position focuses on coordinating and supporting daily operations within our high-precision aerospace manufacturing facility. You will balance advanced technical machining expertise with team leadership, spending the majority of your time on the shop floor to operate equipment, resolve complex machining challenges, perform setups, and provide technical guidance to the staff.

Core Responsibilities

• Oversee daily shop floor operations while maintaining active involvement in production tasks.
• Act as the primary technical subject matter expert for all machinists and operators.
• Manage machining workflows across 3-, 4-, and 5-axis centers, horizontal units, CNC lathes, Swiss-style equipment, grinders, saws, and manual tools.
• Execute machine setups, process prove-outs, troubleshooting, tooling optimization, and continuous process improvements.
• Analyze and modify G-code and M-code at the machine level, including adjustments to speeds, feeds, offsets, and tooling.
• Collaborate with Programming, Engineering, and Quality departments to facilitate prototype development and new product launches.
• Ensure adherence to AS9100 standards and customer quality specifications, including first article inspections and corrective action processes.
• Engineer, construct, and validate custom workholding solutions, soft jaws, fixtures, spacers, bushings, and other manufacturing aids to improve production efficiency.
• Innovate unique tooling and workholding strategies for complex aerospace parts that lack existing manufacturing processes.
• Work alongside Engineering to verify that fixtures and tooling meet all dimensional requirements, repeatability standards, and production scalability goals.
• Foster a culture of accountability, safety, and quality by mentoring, training, and developing the machining team.
• Perform additional duties as required by management.

Required Background and Experience

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Trade School certification is considered an asset.
• At least 5 years of professional machining experience.
• Background in aerospace manufacturing with knowledge of ISO 9001 or AS9100 quality systems.
• Comprehensive knowledge of blueprint reading, GD&T, and machining processes.
• Competency in interpreting M-code and G-code.
• Practical experience with turning and milling CNC operations.
• Expertise in setting up and running CNC equipment using controls such as Fanuc, Mazak, Haas, or Hurco.
• Familiarity with precision measurement tools like height gauges, micrometers, gauge blocks, and calipers.
• Experience operating 4-axis horizontal and 3-, 4-, and 5-axis vertical machining centers.
• Proficiency in Mastercam CAD/CAM software.
• Experience using SolidWorks.
• Capability in CMM programming, specifically with CMM Manager.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe work environment.
• Strong attention to detail.

Compliance and Regulatory Requirements

Because this role involves access to export-controlled data, candidates must be eligible for necessary authorizations from the US Government to comply with all relevant Export Control regulations.

Physical Requirements and Work Setting

The following physical demands are typical for this role to ensure successful performance. You must be able to lift and carry up to 40 pounds while adhering to OSHA safety standards. Daily tasks require standing, sitting, bending, reaching, and navigating the facility. The work takes place in a manufacturing environment where you may occasionally encounter wet, hot, or cold conditions. We provide reasonable accommodations to assist individuals with disabilities in performing these essential functions.

Required Skillsets

• Technical equipment troubleshooting.
• CNC tooling management.
• CNC machine setup and changeover procedures.
• Advanced inspection and gauge measurement techniques.

Technology and Equipment

• CAM software suites (GibbsCAM, Esprit, Mastercam).