Lead Machinist | Rockford, MI

Salary Range: $60,000 - $90,000 depending on experience

Are you a skilled professional with a passion for excelling in lead machinist? The Pivot Group Network, a West Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is dedicated to building meaningful connections in the manufacturing community. We are collaborating with companies in Rockford seeking experienced Lead Machinists.

We are building our network of talent in this field across West Michigan and the broader manufacturing region Pivot Group Network serves. Our partner companies may or may not have an immediate opening for this exact role today, but we actively look for skilled professionals in the regions where they operate. If there is alignment now or in the near future, we reach out.

The Opportunity

We are partnering with organizations in Rockford that are seeking Lead Machinists. These companies are committed to building strong teams and are looking for professionals who can lead initiatives effectively. By connecting with The Pivot Group Network, you position yourself for roles that match your background and aspirations.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise and train junior machinists on equipment operation and safety protocols.
• Program, set up, and operate CNC machinery for complex part production.
• Interpret engineering blueprints, schematics, and technical drawings to ensure accurate fabrication.
• Perform quality control inspections on finished products to meet specifications and tolerances.
• Troubleshoot and resolve machinery malfunctions, performing routine maintenance and repairs.
• Optimize machining processes for efficiency, cost reduction, and improved product quality.
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams on new product development and design for manufacturability.

Recommended Qualifications

• Minimum of 7 years of experience as a machinist in a manufacturing environment.
• Proven ability to program, set up, and operate CNC machinery (mills and lathes).
• Expertise in reading and interpreting blueprints, technical drawings, and GD&T.
• Strong understanding of various metals, cutting tools, and machining processes.
• Demonstrated leadership skills with experience mentoring or supervising junior machinists.
• Proficiency in performing quality checks using precision measurement tools.

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with CAD/CAM software for design and programming
• CMM operation experience for quality inspection
• Lean manufacturing or Six Sigma certification
• Experience mentoring junior machinists or apprentices
• Proficiency in a second language, particularly Spanish

Job Titles That Should Apply

Lead Machinist, Senior Machinist, CNC Lead Machinist, Machinist Supervisor, Machinist Team Lead, Precision Machinist Lead, Manufacturing Machinist Lead, Shop Lead Machinist

Why The Pivot Group Network

The Pivot Group Network was founded by manufacturing professionals who've been on both sides of the hiring process. Our clients are strategic—they partner with us because they want real insight into their roles and the people filling them, not a stack of resumes. We focus on match-driven placements built around what actually matters: Commute, Compensation, Culture, and Career trajectory. Learn more at https://www.thepivotgroup.org.

If you're ready to take the next step in your career and connect with a firm that values fit over speed, we invite you to reach out at https://www.thepivotgroup.org. The Pivot Group Network offers resources to support your search—market insights, resume feedback, and interview preparation. As our partnerships grow, we'll reach out with opportunities aligned with your goals. Thank you for considering this approach to career advancement.