PTL CNC Machinist IV -Technical Lead

Fairbanks Morse Defense • Pascagoula, MS

7d

About The Position

Bird Johnson, a Fairbanks Morse Defense Company, is seeking an experienced CNC professional to oversee daily CNC machining floor operations and connect engineering with production. The role combines hands-on technical expertise with shop-floor leadership, working alongside Design and Manufacturing Engineers to turn CAD/CAM designs into efficient, repeatable production processes. The CNC Technical Lead troubleshoots complex setups, optimizes programs, mentors machinists, and supports production quality, safety, and efficiency. The position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a DOD security clearance.

Requirements

• At least 10 years of hands-on precision CNC machining experience, including at least 2 years in a lead, supervisory, or senior setup role.
• Ability to obtain and maintain the required DOD security clearance.
• Advanced understanding of G-code/M-code programming and manual editing at the control, including Haas, Fanuc, Mazak, Heidenhain, or similar systems.
• Proficiency interpreting complex engineering blueprints and applying GD&T.
• Extensive experience with precision measurement tools, including micrometers, bore gauges, and height gauges, and interpreting CMM outputs.
• Hands-on expertise with multi-axis milling and turning machines, tooling selection, and custom work-holding and fixturing.
• Familiarity with CAD/CAM software such as NX, Mastercam, SolidWorks, or Fusion 360, and experience working directly with engineering 3D models.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with engineers, machinists, and upper management.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with 5-axis machining or live-tooling lathes.
• Background in aerospace, medical device, automotive, or high-precision job-shop manufacturing.
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing, 5S, or Six Sigma practices.
• Associate degree or vocational certification in Precision Machining/Manufacturing Technology.
• Experience working with large castings.

Responsibilities

• Guide and support CNC machinists with daily shift setups, tool selection, speeds and feeds, and complex machining operations.
• Improve cycle times, tool life, fixture designs, and machining strategies across 3-axis, 5-axis, mill-turn, or precision-lathe work.
• Set up, prove out, and debug new or high-complexity CNC programs before handing them off to operators.
• Diagnose and resolve machining issues, machine alarms, tooling wear, and dimensional non-conformances on the shop floor.
• Partner with Engineering to review drawings, models, and prototypes and provide feedback on manufacturability and tolerances.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing Engineers to refine tool paths, program logic, and post-processors.
• Work with Quality Assurance and Engineering on First Article Inspections and validation of new tooling and fixtures.
• Train and mentor junior and mid-level CNC operators in setups, blueprint reading, GD&T, and precision measurement tools.
• Enforce quality standards, 5S practices, and Lean manufacturing methods to reduce scrap and rework.
• Ensure shop-floor personnel follow safety policies, machine-guarding requirements, and OSHA requirements.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health benefits starting on the first day of hire.
• Eligibility for 100% tuition reimbursement after 12 months.
• 401(k) with up to a 6% employer match.
• Annual company performance-based bonus.
• Professional growth opportunities.
• Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance.
• Paid time off and paid holidays.
• Paid parental leave.
• Tuition reimbursement.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: No Education Listed