Lead Multi‑Axis CNC Machining Specialist; Aerospace

Imagine walking onto a spotless aerospace shop floor where complex, tight‑tolerance parts are queued for precision. You review the production plan, confirm tooling strategies, and bring a 5‑axis cell online. A first‑article inspection checks out perfectly. As the shift progresses, you coach a machinist through a tricky work holding challenge, refine feeds and speeds to eliminate chatter, and facilitate a clean handoff to the next team—all while elevating standards for quality, safety, and output.

If that sounds like your ideal day, you may be the technical lead we’re looking for.

Northeast Tool & Manufacturing is seeking a seasoned CNC expert to lead on the shop floor, with a current emphasis on 2nd shift while we actively consider top CNC talent across all shifts. You will combine hands‑on setup and operation with mentorship, process troubleshooting, tooling optimization, and cross‑shift coordination. This position includes a development path toward formal supervisory responsibilities.

• Own complex CNC setups and operations for milling and turning, including multi‑axis work (3+2 and/or simultaneous 5‑axis) while modeling best‑in‑class quality and productivity.
• Coordinate daily priorities, manage workflow, and meet delivery commitments, production schedules, and quality targets.
• Coach and mentor CNC Machinists and Operators—reinforce safe practices, precision techniques, and a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
• Troubleshoot machining processes; optimize tooling, work holding, and process controls; and elevate inspection methods to meet tight tolerances.
• Serve as the communication hub for the shift—enable seamless handoffs, support nonconformance resolution, and ensure adherence to the Quality Management System (QMS).
• Advance 5S discipline, FOD prevention, equipment care, and workplace organization to drive operational excellence.

• Deep CNC knowledge across setup, operation, troubleshooting, tooling, and process optimization in both milling and turning environments; strong multi‑axis experience preferred (3+2 and/or simultaneous 5‑axis).
• Proven shop‑floor leadership—mentoring peers, guiding problem‑solving, and championing quality and teamwork.
• Expertise in blueprint reading, GD&T, inspection methods, and precision metrology for tight‑tolerance manufacturing.
• Sound judgment and prioritization skills; ability to diagnose issues and resolve production challenges quickly.
• Clear communication and organization; proficiency with Microsoft Office; comfort using production metrics and KPIs to drive performance.

• High School Diploma or GED with multiple years of CNC machining experience in manufacturing; precision, tight‑tolerance work strongly preferred.
• Hands‑on experience setting up and machining complex parts on multi‑axis CNC milling, turning, and/or mill‑turn platforms.
• Solid command of machining processes, tooling, work holding, feeds/speeds, blueprint reading, tolerances, and GD&T.
• History of providing technical guidance, mentorship, training, and direct support to machinists and operators.
• Proficiency with precision measurement and inspection tools for verifying conformance.
• Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems and Microsoft Office applications.

• Associate’s degree in Manufacturing Technology, Engineering Technology, Machining, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• Background as a Lead Machinist, Cell Lead, Technical Lead, Mentor, or similar shop‑floor leadership role.
• Experience in AS9100 aerospace or other highly regulated manufacturing environments.
• Proven capability with 3+2 and/or simultaneous 5‑axis milling and multi‑axis turning centers.
• Knowledge of Lean, Continuous Improvement, Root Cause…