Lead Machinist | Grand Rapids, MI

Salary Range: $54,000 - $84,000 depending on experience

Are you a detail-oriented professional with a passion for excelling in lead machinist? The Pivot Group Network, a West Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is dedicated to fostering meaningful relationships and supporting career advancement. We are collaborating with leading companies in Grand Rapids 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 collaborating with manufacturing firms in Grand Rapids that are seeking skilled Lead Machinists. These organizations are dedicated to maintaining high standards and are looking for professionals who can contribute effectively. By joining our network, you position yourself for opportunities aligned with your career goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise and mentor a team of machinists, providing technical guidance and performance feedback.
• Program, set up, and operate advanced CNC machinery for complex part production.
• Interpret engineering blueprints, CAD models, and specifications to determine optimal machining processes.
• Troubleshoot and resolve machining issues, including tool wear, material defects, and machine malfunctions.
• Perform quality control inspections on finished parts using precision measuring instruments.
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams to optimize designs for manufacturability and efficiency.
• Maintain and perform preventative maintenance on machining equipment to ensure operational readiness.

Recommended Qualifications

• Journeyman Machinist certification or equivalent.
• Minimum 7-10 years of experience operating and programming various CNC machines (mills, lathes).
• Demonstrated expertise in reading and interpreting blueprints, GD&T, and technical specifications.
• Proficiency in CAM software (e.g., Mastercam, SolidCAM) for complex part programming.
• Proven leadership ability, including experience in training, mentoring, and supervising other machinists.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a track record of optimizing machining processes for efficiency and quality.

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with CAD/CAM software for design and programming
• Demonstrated ability to mentor and train junior machinists
• Familiarity with a variety of materials beyond standard metals (e.g., composites, exotic alloys)
• Strong problem-solving skills with a track record of optimizing machining processes
• Certifications in advanced machining techniques or quality control (e.g., GD&T)

Job Titles That Should Apply

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

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.