Senior CNC Machinist - Advanced Milling Techniques

Sterling St James LLC; Duluth (MN); On-site; USD 28,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

Sterling St James LLC in the Duluth area is seeking a CNC Cell Lead to own complex setups on large-scale milling centers. You will edit G-code at the controller, apply GD&T standards to high-strength components, and mentor junior operators in a high-autonomy, first-shift environment.

The role requires a 2-year technical diploma or associate degree in CNC machining, US work authorization, and a track record of progressive manufacturing experience.

Qualifications

• 2-year technical diploma or associate degree in CNC machining or machine tool technology.
• Experience performing independent setups on large milling centers.
• Proficiency editing controller-level G&M code and GD&T concepts.
• Strong problem-solving to adjust cutting parameters and prevent deflection.
• Stable, progressive work history with technical growth.
• Authorized to work in the US within reasonable Duluth/Superior driving radius.

Responsibilities

• Perform complex, independent setups on large-scale CNC milling centers and multi-axis tools.
• Edit G-code and optimize program paths at the controller for precision parts.
• Interpret engineering prints and apply GD&T standards for sequencing.
• Conduct first-article inspections using precision metrology tools.
• Collaborate with design engineers and welding teams to remove roadblocks.
• Provide shop-floor leadership and mentor junior operators.

Skills

G-code editing

CNC milling

GD&T

Metrology

Team leadership

Problem solving

Education

Associates in CNC Machining

Tools

Mastercam

Offline simulation

Job description

CNC Cell Lead – Large-Scale Milling & G-Code Optimization

Up to $34.00/hr + Profit Sharing Duluth, MN / Superior, WI Area Exclusive 1st Shift Full-Time / Direct Hire

• Compensation & Earnings: Baseline starting rate up to $34.00/hr (scaling directly with setup depth), plus premium overtime eligibility, corporate profit sharing, and a comprehensive benefits package.
• Exclusive 1st Shift Schedule: Monday - Friday with flexible start windows available (6:00 AM, 7:00 AM, or 8:00 AM) for great work-life balance.
• Company Culture & Autonomy: Direct-hire, lead-track position with a premier, global market leader in heavy equipment attachment manufacturing - offering a supportive, family-oriented environment where technical craftsmanship is genuinely celebrated.
• Core Technical Scope: Independent setups on large-scale CNC milling centers, controller-level G&M code editing, unproven program optimization, complex fixture alignments, GD&T execution, and junior operator mentorship.
• Strict Requirements: U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residency (Green Card); 2-Year Technical Diploma or Associate Degree in CNC Machining / Machine Tool Technology; proven depth in independent setups on large milling centers.

If you are a degreed machinist looking to step away from mundane, high-volume production where operators are treated like basic "button pushers," this lead-track cell seat is built for you. Our client is a premier, global market leader in heavy equipment attachment manufacturing serving the scrap recycling, construction, and demolition sectors. Experiencing continuous expansion, this financially sound manufacturer offers a family-oriented environment where technical craftsmanship is genuinely celebrated. In this high-autonomy role, you will own the setups on large-scale milling centers, handle complex high-strength steel components, and collaborate directly with design engineering and welding teams. Enjoy a dedicated 1st shift schedule, flexible morning start times, and direct financial participation through corporate profit sharing.

What You Will Be Doing (Daily Responsibilities)

• Perform Complex Independent Setups: Execute complete, independent setups and operations on large-scale CNC milling centers and multi-axis machine tools.
• Edit & Optimize G-Code: Edit G&M codes and optimize program paths directly at the controller to safely machine precision components from high-strength steels and alloys.
• Blueprint & GD&T Execution: Interpret complex engineering prints and apply strict Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) standards to establish optimal operation sequences.
• Precision Inspection: Conduct first-article inspections using specialized precision metrology tools (bore gauges, micrometers, calipers) to ensure full tolerance compliance.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with design engineers and welding fabrication teams to resolve setup roadblocks, conduct DFM reviews, and optimize workflow efficiency.
• Provide Floor Leadership: Provide shop floor leadership and mentorship, coaching junior operators on setup techniques, tool selection, and safe cell operation.

What We Are Looking For (Requirements & Qualifications)

• Required Education: 2-Year Technical Diploma or Associate Degree in CNC Machining or Machine Tool Technology.
• Heavy Machining Depth: Demonstrated background executing independent setups on large milling centers and machining close-tolerance, complex workpieces.
• Technical Literacy: Proficiency with controller-level G&M code editing, unproven program optimization, and GD&T principles.
• Diagnostic Intuition: Expert problem-solving skills to adjust cutting parameters, evaluate tool wear, and prevent deflection on active runs.
• Employment Stability: A solid, progressive work history demonstrating long-term tenure and technical growth with prior employers.
• Location & Authorization: U.S. Citizenship or Green Card holder residing within a comfortable daily driving radius of the Greater Duluth, MN / Superior, WI area.

Preferred Technical Assets (Bonus Skills)

• Multi-Axis Expertise: Experience with multi-axis configurations (5-axis machining or live-tool turning experience is a major bonus; internal cross-training available).
• High-Strength Metallurgy: Experience machining heavy weldments, structural castings, or tough alloys (e.g., AR400/500, high-yield steels).
• CAD/CAM & Offline Simulation: Familiarity with Mastercam or offline program verification software.