Machine Shop Lead

IMI plc

IMI plc is a sector focused organization at the forefront of delivering motion and fluid control technologies that create a more sustainable world, improving the quality of life for our customers and communities and ultimately delivering our purpose of Breakthrough Engineering for a Better World.

The Automation platform leverages deep automation technology and applications expertise to improve productivity, safety and sustainability for our customers, Industrial Automation operates across many important industry sectors and is a world leader in supporting customers with motion and fluid control technology.

Our one big team work fairly and effectively but most importantly together to ensure we maintain the foundations that have enabled IMI's success through over 150 years of heritage.

Role Overview

The Machinist Lead is responsible for setting up and operating CNC machinery-including lathes, mills, and VTLs-to produce high‑precision metal components per engineering specifications. This role serves as the primary technical resource and first point of contact for machinists on the shop floor, providing guidance on machining, programming feedback, tooling, and troubleshooting. The Machinist Lead supports safe work practices, ensures production efficiency, and partners closely with Production Supervisors, Programming, and Maintenance.

Work Environment:
On-site in Houston, TX

Key Responsibilities

Work safely in accordance with IMI standards and OSHA requirements

Ensure coworkers are following safe practices and initiate Stop‑Call‑Wait when necessary

Set up and operate CNC machinery to manufacture components within blueprint specifications and tolerances down to 0.001 inches

Machine large fabricated parts according to engineering requirements

Interpret and understand machine drawings

Perform necessary machine shop math and calculations

Use measuring devices such as calipers and scales

Safely operate overhead cranes

Serve as the first point of contact for machinists needing assistance with machining, setups, programs, or tooling issues

Collaborate with Programming to review, proofread, and provide feedback on CNC programs before upload

Escalate machining or production issues to Production Supervisors when appropriate

Provide feedback to improve machining efficiency and workflow

Champion tooling inventory management, organization, and monitoring

Assist with machining‑related quotes when requested

Coordinate TPM scheduling with Maintenance and Management

Ensure daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual TPM tasks are completed per Maintenance and OEM requirements

Maintain a clean and organized work area

Communicate effectively with supervisors and operators

Perform additional duties as assigned

Critical Competencies for Success

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily, with or without reasonable accommodation. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and / or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

High school diploma or GED, or an equivalent combination of education and experience

Experience operating CNC machinery including Toshiba VTL, lathes, milling machines, vertical boring mills, horizontal boring mills, and surface grinders

Knowledge and experience with Stellite and Weld engineering

Ability to read, write, and speak English fluently

Ability to read and interpret machine drawings and maintain tolerances down to 0.001"

Experience machining large fabricated parts

Proficiency using measuring equipment such as scales and calipers

Manual dexterity for operating machinery, tools, and computers

Ability to perform machine shop math and calculations

Ability to work safely and promote safe behavior among coworkers

Experience assisting machinists with troubleshooting, setups, tooling, or program issues

Ability to collaborate with Programmers to review and provide feedback on CNC programs

Experience managing tooling inventory, storage, and organization

Ability to coordinate TPM schedules with Maintenance and ensure completion

Strong…