WL - Lead CNC Machinist (2nd Shift)

Fairbanks Morse Defense•Thomaston, CT

62d•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Lead CNC Machinist to oversee and support a team of CNC machinists in the setup, programming, and operation of multi-axis CNC lathes, vertical turret lathes (VTLs), 5-axis mill-turn, and cylindrical grinding machines. This position plays a key leadership role in ensuring the efficient production of precision components for defense-related electro-mechanical systems. The Lead Machinist will be responsible for guiding daily operations, mentoring machinists, maintaining quality and productivity standards, and coordinating with engineering and production teams to meet customer and schedule requirements.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent required; technical certification or formal machining training preferred.
Minimum 7-10 years of experience operating and setting up multi-axis CNC machines, including VTLs and/or 5-axis mill-turn equipment, in a precision manufacturing environment.
Proven leadership experience in a shop-floor environment with the ability to train, motivate, and direct a team of machinists.
Advanced knowledge of GD&T, tight-tolerance machining, and inspection methods.
Proficiency in both manual inspection tools (micrometers, bore gauges) and automated measurement systems (touch probes, CMMs).
Familiarity with FANUC, Siemens, or OSP (Okuma) CNC controls preferred.
Experience in an ISO 9001 or defense manufacturing environment strongly desired.
Strong problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills.
U.S. Person status required (to comply with defense contract regulations).

Responsibilities

Lead and mentor CNC machinists in daily operations, ensuring adherence to setup procedures, machining standards, and safety protocols.
Set up and operate multi-axis CNC lathes, VTLs, 5-axis mill-turn, and cylindrical grinding machines to manufacture precision components to tight tolerances.
Oversee and verify CNC program optimization for performance, tool life, and part quality; assist with complex setups and troubleshooting.
Train and develop team members on proper use of tooling, workholding, offsets, G-code editing, grinding wheel setup/balancing, and inspection methods.
Review and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, GD&T specifications, and work instructions to confirm compliance with customer and quality requirements.
Coordinate in-process and final inspections using manual and automated metrology tools to verify dimensional accuracy.
Monitor and adjust machining operations in real time to ensure part conformance and minimize downtime.
Collaborate closely with engineering, programming, and quality teams to resolve manufacturing challenges and drive continuous improvement.
Plan and prioritize work assignments to meet production schedules and maximize spindle utilization across multiple machines.
Maintain accurate documentation for setups, tooling usage, maintenance, and production output.
Ensure proper preventive maintenance on equipment and tooling, and coordinate repairs when needed.
Champion a culture of safety, organization, and continuous improvement throughout the machining area.