Lead Machinist | Plainwell, MI

Salary Range: $62,000 - $92,000 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 Plainwell 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 partner with manufacturers across Plainwell seeking Lead Machinists who want more than a lateral move. These companies hire intentionally, and we connect them with professionals ready for roles that fit.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise and train junior machinists on equipment operation and safety protocols.
• Program, set up, and operate advanced CNC machinery and conventional tools for precision parts.
• Interpret complex engineering drawings, blueprints, and specifications to determine optimal machining processes.
• Perform quality control inspections on finished products to ensure adherence to tight tolerances and specifications.
• Troubleshoot and resolve machining issues, including tool wear, material defects, and equipment malfunctions.
• Optimize machining parameters and develop new tooling strategies to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams to develop prototypes and improve existing manufacturing processes.

Recommended Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED; completion of a recognized apprenticeship program or equivalent experience preferred
• 7+ years of progressive experience in precision machining and manufacturing environments
• Proven expertise in setting up, operating, and programming CNC mills and lathes
• Strong ability to read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and GD&T
• Demonstrated leadership experience, including mentoring junior machinists and overseeing project workflows
• Excellent problem-solving skills and a commitment to quality and continuous improvement

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with CAD/CAM software for programming CNC machines
• Demonstrated ability to train and mentor junior machinists
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies
• Certification in a specialized machining skill (e.g., EDM, 5-axis machining)
• Proven track record of optimizing machining processes for efficiency and cost reduction

Job Titles That Should Apply

Senior Machinist,Machinist Lead,CNC Lead Machinist,Lead CNC Programmer,Machining Supervisor,Shop Lead Machinist,Precision Machinist Lead,CNC Machinist Lead,Manufacturing Lead Machinist,Machine Shop 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.