About the role
Swiss Machining Process Lead
Reports to: Operations Manager Schedule: 1st shift, onsite Compensation: $90,000 – $115,000, based on experience
About the Role 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.
What You’ll Do
Technical leadership
* 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 NLX2500) 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
Process engineering and optimization
* 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
Continuous improvement
* 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 overprocessing
Quoting and documentation
* 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
What You Bring
* 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