CNC Lead Machinist – Second Shift

At a glance

Company: Custom Design Components
Location: Howard City, Michigan
Job Type: Full-Time
Shift: Second Shift
Experience: CNC machining and manufacturing leadership experience required
Machines: CNC Mills, CNC Lathes, Manual Machines
Reports To: Production Manager
Direct Reports: Machinists

Custom Design Components is looking for a hands‑on CNC Lead Machinist to lead its second‑shift machining team in Howard City, Michigan.

This is not a desk‑only supervisory position. You will work directly with machinists on the shop floor, help resolve production and quality issues, support setups and machine operation, and keep projects moving according to schedule.

Custom Design Components has manufactured hydraulic manifolds and precision components since 1993. The family‑owned company supports applications across agriculture, construction, industrial equipment, military, and medical markets.

The right candidate will bring strong CNC machining knowledge along with the ability to train employees, address performance concerns, improve processes, and maintain a productive and professional shop environment.

• Set up and operate CNC and manual machine tools as needed
• Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and job specifications
• Select appropriate tooling and help troubleshoot machining problems
• Inspect completed parts using precision measuring instruments
• Verify that finished components meet dimensional and quality requirements
• Support routine machine and tooling maintenance
• Help resolve production obstacles and reduce rework

• Lead and support machinists working on second shift
• Monitor shop-floor productivity and address performance concerns
• Train and cross‑train employees on machining processes and responsibilities
• Recognize strong performers and provide direct coaching where improvement is needed
• Promote teamwork, accountability, and high morale
• Manage employee schedules and vacation requests
• Maintain clear communication with the Production Manager and leadership team
• Ensure employees follow company safety, quality, and housekeeping standards

• Understand the scope, schedule, and requirements of active projects
• Identify production risks and develop practical solutions
• Work with the Production Manager to confirm shop capabilities and priorities
• Investigate recurring issues and implement lasting corrective actions
• Coordinate preventative maintenance during available machine downtime
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe manufacturing environment
• Support continuous improvement initiatives throughout the shop

This position requires experience working with:

• CNC milling machines
• CNC lathes
• Manual machine tools
• Precision measuring equipment
• Calipers, micrometers, gauges, and related inspection tools
• Production planning and project management systems
• ERP software
• Microsoft Word and Excel

Specific CNC machine brands and controls were not provided.

• Family‑owned manufacturer founded in 1993
• Hands‑on leadership role with direct reports
• Custom and standard hydraulic manifold manufacturing
• CNC milling and turning capabilities
• Prototype through production‑volume work
• Strong emphasis on clean, burr‑free components
• Opportunities to improve processes and develop employees
• Down‑to‑earth, team‑oriented work environment
• Company investment in employee training
• Long‑term manufacturing operation in Howard City

• Strong experience setting up and operating CNC machine tools
• Experience with manual machining equipment
• Previous experience as a production lead, machining lead, or similar manufacturing leader
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical…