Machine Shop Supervisor

Gilder Search Group; Cary (NC); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Gilder Search Group in Cary, NC seeks a Machine Shop Supervisor to lead CNC operations and mentor a skilled team within a growing, relocation-ready facility. You will drive automation and high-precision manufacturing, setting standards and workflows that align with safety and quality goals.

You will work with engineering and automation groups to design and implement processes, optimize programs, and ensure seamless production across a modern, integrated shop environment.

Qualifications

• Associate or bachelor’s degree in a machine tooling or related field.
• Proven CNC machining, programming and supervision experience.
• Experience with 5-6 axis machining and robotic tending.
• Proficiency with CAM software (Mastercam, Fusion 360, etc.).

Responsibilities

• Lead, train, and supervise CNC operators with safety standards.
• Oversee daily machining operations, scheduling, and workflow.
• Develop, modify, and optimize CNC programs for complex components.
• Utilize CAM to generate toolpaths and improve cycle times.
• Support multi-axis CNC centers and robotic tending cells.
• Lead setup for the new facility including layout and integration with automation.
• Troubleshoot machining issues with engineering and maintenance teams.
• Interpret drawings and GD&T to ensure accurate production.
• Maintain a clean, safe, organized work environment.
• Support continuous-improvement initiatives in automation.

Skills

CNC machining

Programming

Supervising teams

Multi-axis machining

CAM programming

Robotics/automation

PLCs / digital factory

Machining fundamentals

Leadership

Okuma/Haas

Education

Associate or Bachelor’s Degree in Machine Tool Technology/related field

Job description

As a Machine Shop Supervisor you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping how precision parts are made to support high-tech automation systems. This is more than a supervisory position and it’s an opportunity to lead, build, and influence the future of our machine shop as we continue to expand.

You’ll be a hands‑on technical leader, overseeing CNC machining operations, guiding and developing a skilled team, and working closely with automation and engineering groups. As we prepare for an upcoming facility relocation, you’ll have a rare chance to help design and organize a modern, automation‑integrated machine shop from the ground up; setting standards, workflows, and best practices that will support our growth for years to come.

Experience/Education Qualifications:

• Associate or Bachelor’s Degree in Machine Tool Technology, Computer Integrated Machining, or a related manufacturing field.
• Proven experience in CNC machining, programming, and supervising production teams in an industrial automation or advanced‑manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of multi‑axis machining (5-6 axis), robotic machine tending, and automated part‑handling systems.
• Proficiency with CAM programming software (e.g., Mastercam, Fusion 360, or similar).
• Knowledge of automated manufacturing technologies such as robotics, PLC‑driven equipment, vision systems, or digital factory tools (preferred).
• Solid understanding of machining principles, cutting tools, fixtures, and precision manufacturing.
• Strong leadership, communication, and problem‑solving skills with the ability to support both people and automated processes.
• Nice to have- Okuma or Haas CNC Machine experience

Job Responsibilities:

• Lead, train, and supervise CNC operators, ensuring alignment with automated production standards and safety protocols.
• Oversee daily machining operations, including scheduling, workflow optimization, and coordination with automated production lines.
• Develop, modify, and optimize CNC programs for complex components used in automated systems, robotics, tooling, and motion‑control assemblies.
• Utilize CAM software to generate efficient toolpaths, improve cycle times, and ensure compatibility with automated material‑handling systems.
• Support multi‑axis CNC machining centers, robotic machine‑tending cells, and other automation‑enhanced processes. Okuma experience a plus.
• Play a critical role in setting up the machine shop in the new facility, including equipment layout, workflow design, and integration with automation and digital manufacturing technologies.
• Troubleshoot machining issues and collaborate with automation, engineering, and maintenance teams to improve quality, uptime, and process capability.
• Interpret detailed engineering drawings, GD&T, and automation‑related part specifications to ensure accurate component production.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safety‑driven work environment consistent with modern automated manufacturing standards.
• Support continuous‑improvement initiatives, including automation upgrades, process optimization, and smart‑manufacturing practices.

Travel Requirements

A valid US passport is required