Lead Machinist | Caledonia, MI

Salary Range: $56,000 - $86,000 depending on experience

Are you ready to take on a challenging and rewarding opportunity in {{role_field}}? The Pivot Group Network, a West Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is committed to building meaningful connections in manufacturing. We partner with leading companies in Caledonia seeking 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 Caledonia 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

• Oversee the setup and operation of various machining tools, including CNC mills, lathes, and grinders.
• Lead a team of machinists, providing training, guidance, and performance feedback.
• Develop and optimize machining processes to improve efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness.
• Troubleshoot complex machining issues and implement effective solutions.
• Ensure all machining operations adhere to safety standards, quality control procedures, and production schedules.
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams to interpret blueprints, specifications, and design requirements.
• Perform precision machining of complex parts and prototypes to tight tolerances.

Recommended Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience as a machinist, with at least 2 years in a lead or supervisory capacity.
• Proven expertise in operating and programming CNC mills and lathes.
• Strong understanding of G-code and M-code programming.
• Ability to interpret complex engineering blueprints, schematics, and technical drawings.
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot and resolve machining issues, ensuring high-quality output.
• Experience with various metrology tools and precision measurement techniques.

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with CAD/CAM software for programming and simulation
• Proficiency in operating and maintaining CNC machinery
• Demonstrated ability to mentor and train junior machinists
• Strong problem-solving skills with a focus on process improvement
• Certification in a relevant area (e.g., NIMS, AWS)

Job Titles That Should Apply

Senior Machinist, Machinist Lead, CNC Machinist Lead, Manufacturing Machinist Lead, Shop Lead Machinist, Precision Machinist Lead, Machine Shop Supervisor, Machinist Foreman, Machining Team Lead

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.