Team Lead - SW Machining

Position Summary

The Machining Team Lead is responsible for the performance of the machining centers and  ensures that safety, quality and production standards and goals are met.  The ideal candidate has successfully led a production team and has hands-on experience with CNC equipment, a strong understanding of quality control tools, and a commitment to continuous improvement and workplace safety.

Position Responsibilities

• Maintain a safe work environment by strictly adhering to all Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) policies and procedures.  
• Ensure compliance with company policies, quality management standards (IATF 16949), and industry regulations.
• Drive Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) improvements by achieving daily availability, performance, and quality goals.
• Troubleshoot equipment issues and perform minor repairs as needed ensure machinery is functioning correctly before escalating to Maintenance Technicians.
• Evaluate production priorities and orders, set up machines, and execute production plans to achieve production targets.
• Perform timely and accurate changeovers, optimize workflows, perform preventive maintenance, and quickly identify and resolve issues with equipment, materials, and process to improve efficiency.
• Closely monitor processes and quickly escalate issues to ensure timely resolution.
• Record and track safety, performance, and quality data.
• Verify that all procedures and documentation are accurate and up to date.
• Effectively manage non-conforming material (NCM) by containing, segregating, and performing scrap transactions, as necessary.
• Assign and utilize staff in the most efficient and effective way based on their training, skills, and experience.
• Communicate effectively with upstream and downstream processes and between shifts to ensure production requirements are met.
• Ensure that materials are available and in process throughout the shift.
• Identify areas for improvement and suggest changes to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
• Create and drive close improvement actions to prevent recurrence, improve, and get back on track.
• Complete assigned training to support personal growth and development.
• Train operators, as needed to help meet quality and production standards and improve machining center performance.
• Work extended, or flexible hours as required to cover gaps in operator coverage and ensure operational continuity.
• Perform special projects as requested and other duties as assigned to support overall business objectives.

Essential Skills and Experience

• High school diploma or GED equivalent 
• Minimum 3-5 years experience in CNC machinery (e.g., lathes, mills, grinders, and multi-axis machines), including at least 1 year in a leadership role.
• Proficient in reading and interpreting technical drawings, blueprints, and GD&T.
• Skilled in using precision measurement tools and interpreting inspection results.
• In depth knowledge of machine cutting speeds, feeds, and material properties for various metals and alloys.
• Understanding of manufacturing quality system standards for machining applications.
• Demonstrated mechanical maintenance proficiency, Industrial Maintenance Levels 1&2 skills
• Understanding of production, quality, and safety metrics.
• Good communication and coaching skills
• Proven critical thinking and problem solving skills.
• Ability to lift up to 50lbs unassisted and utilizing Team Lift for 75lbs correctly multiple times throughout the shift.
• Basic computer skills for data entry, machine interface navigation, and production tracking.
• Basic English language competency.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Familiarity with TS16949, ISO14001, and ISO9001 quality systems.
• Understanding of Lean Manufacturing principles and practices.
• Ability to work with minimal supervision in a fast-paced, high-precision manufacturing environment.
• Familiarity with CNC programming basics and ability to make minor program edits.