Lead CNC Operator​/Woodworker (Wood and Metal

Lead CNC Operator / Woodworker (Wood & Metal)

Location:

N. Preston St., Philadelphia, PA 19104

Job Type: Full-Time

Shift: B Shift (2PM–10:30PM)

We are looking for a skilled and dependable Lead CNC Operator/Woodworker to join our team and work a temporary B Shift (2PM–10:30PM) assignment. This role blends hands-on CNC operation and woodworking production with team leadership and cross-departmental support in our metal shop. The ideal candidate brings solid experience in wood fabrication, strong CNC programming skills, and confidence stepping into a metal shop environment — all while leading a small crew toward quality results on time.

Job Summary:

This role is responsible for operating and programming CNC machines for wood production, performing general woodworking and fabrication tasks, and providing second shift lead support across the woodshop and metal shop. The position reports to shop management and is expected to take initiative on the floor.

CNC Machine Operation

• Operate CNC machine for wood cutting, routing, and shaping tasks.
• Load raw materials and ensure proper placement and fixturing within the machine.
• Translate blueprints, schematics, and technical drawings into machine instructions.
• Run test cuts and adjust program or machinery to ensure accuracy and quality.
• Perform routine maintenance including lubrication, inspections, and troubleshooting.

Woodworking & Fabrication

• Perform woodworking tasks including cutting, shaping, sanding, and assembling wood components.
• Operate hand tools and power tools (routers, jointers, planers, table saws, miter saws) safely and effectively.
• Prepare surfaces for finishing by removing imperfections and ensuring proper adhesion of coatings.
• Read and interpret blueprints and shop drawings to meet production specifications.
• Support general wood assembly and fabrication as production needs require.

Metal Shop Support

• Assist in the metal department as needed, operating equipment and performing basic fabrication tasks.
• Apply Gratz quality standards to metal shop production, including inspecting aluminum products for scuffs, dents, and scratches.
• Distribute work, monitor second shift production, and discuss requirements and priorities with the team.
• Follow and enforce metal shop safety protocols and PPE requirements.

Shift Lead Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and day-to-day guidance for the second shift crew across both woodshop and metal shop.
• Assign tasks, monitor workflow, and keep production moving toward shift goals.
• Serve as the first point of contact for questions, troubleshooting, and issues on the floor.
• Communicate shift progress and handoff notes to management.
• Lead by example on safety, quality standards, and professionalism.

Quality Control

• Examine materials for defects and verify conformity to size and specification.
• Conduct quality checks on finished products to ensure they meet company and customer standards.
• Identify, flag, and address defects before products move forward.

Maintenance & Safety

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area throughout the shift.
• Follow all safety protocols for both woodshop and metal shop environments.
• Perform routine tool and equipment maintenance to ensure optimal performance.

CNC Experience (Required)

• Solid hands-on experience programming and operating CNC machines — this is the core of the role.
• CNC background may come from a woodworking or metal shop environment; metal shop CNC experience is especially valued given the cross-departmental nature of this position.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and basic CAD/CAM files.
• Comfortable running test cuts, making program adjustments, and troubleshooting machine issues independently.

Woodworking & Fabrication (Required)

• 3–4 years of experience in woodworking, wood fabrication, or a closely related manufacturing role.
• Proficiency with woodworking tools: routers, jointers, planers, table saws, sanders, and miter saws.
• Experience with surface preparation, finishing, and wood assembly.

Leadership (Required)

• 1–2 years of formal lead experience in a CNC or manufacturing environment — meaning you've led a small crew, assigned work, and been…