Swiss Machining Process Lead

Reports to: Operations Manager
Schedule: 1st shift, onsite
Compensation: $90,000 – $115,000, based on experience

A precision manufacturer is looking for a seasoned Swiss Machining Process Lead/CNC to lead and elevate its Swiss and multi-axis turning operations. This is a hands-on technical leadership role for someone who wants to do more than run production. You’ll guide a team of skilled machinists, dig into toolpaths and cutting parameters, cut setup and cycle times, and drive the continuous improvement work that makes a shop faster, cleaner, and more consistent across shifts.

• Lead and support CNC Machinists who program, set up, and run multi-axis Swiss screw machines (Citizen, Tsugami, Tornos Deco, Escomatic, or similar) and multi-axis CNC lathes (such as the DMG Mori NLX
  2500) producing tight-tolerance components
• Train and mentor machinists and operators on best-practice setups and process controls
• Serve as the escalation point for G-code issues, tool wear, chatter, and dimensional drift during live runs

• Interpret complex engineering drawings, CAD models, GD&T, and technical specifications
• Select the most efficient tooling, feeds, and speeds for complex geometries, reducing cycle time while holding tolerance
• Specify and manage cutting tools, collets, and guide bushings; monitor tool wear and program wear offsets to prevent defects
• Partner with engineering, quality, and machining teams to redesign fixtures, toolpaths, and cutting parameters for better part flow

• Lead or participate in Kaizen events and rapid-improvement projects focused on setup and cycle-time reduction
• Apply Lean tools, including 5S, standard work, and SMED, to machine cells
• Identify and eliminate waste on the shop floor: defects, scrap, excess motion, waiting, and over processing

• Support the quoting process by estimating machining time and cost from customer drawings and CAD files to build profitable bids
• Create and maintain SOPs, setup sheets, operation manuals, and inspection reports that ensure repeatability across shifts
• Communicate process and procedural issues to the appropriate supervisors and departments
• Perform other related duties as assigned

• 12+ years of machining experience on CNC Swiss and multi-axis CNC lathes
• Proven track record leading shop-floor continuous improvement, including 5S, Lean, root-cause analysis, and process mapping
• Experience machining a range of materials, including stainless steel, titanium, Inconel, and copper
• Strong working knowledge of G-code/M-code programming and CAM software (e.g., Mastercam)
• Advanced blueprint reading and a strong command of GD&T
• Clear written and verbal communication skills and the ability to work well with people across the organization
• Strong hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity
• High school diploma or GED required; technical certification or associate degree in Machining, Manufacturing, or a related field preferred