Lead CNC Machinist

Confidential CNC Lead Opportunity — St. Charles, IL

A well-established custom industrial manufacturer in the western suburbs of Chicago is seeking a CNC Lead to support its machine shop operations. This is a confidential search for a family-owned organization with a long-standing reputation for quality, engineering-driven manufacturing, and strong employee tenure.

This role is ideal for an experienced machinist who has demonstrated leadership ability and is ready to step into a larger role. The CNC Lead will serve as the right-hand support to the CNC Foreman, helping coordinate workflow across both the lathe and vertical machining areas while remaining hands-on in daily production.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Work directly from blueprints, BOMs, specifications, and machining instructions.
• Support daily operations across both CNC lathe and mill departments.
• Set up machines by selecting proper bar stock, cutting tools, feeds, speeds, stops, jigs, fixtures, and holding devices.
• Load and verify correct programs, complete first runs, and ensure parts are produced to specification.
• Mount workpieces, run test pieces, inspect output, and troubleshoot machining issues.
• Assist operators and machinists with technical questions and production challenges.
• Coordinate workflow with the CNC Foreman and other department leaders to maintain throughput.
• Maintain equipment, sharpen or replace tooling, lubricate machines, and replenish fluids/solutions.
• Make program edits at the machine or through Mastercam when needed (highly preferred, not required).
• Step in as a hands-on leader to keep workflow moving across the department.

What They’re Looking For

• 7+ years of CNC machining experience (5–6 years minimum considered).
• Strong experience with steel machining.
• Experience with CNC lathes or mills; exposure to both is strongly preferred.
• Ability to independently set up and operate machines.
• Strong ability to read and interpret blueprints, BOMs, and GD&T.
• Proven leadership ability — either prior lead/supervisory experience or clear readiness to step into leadership.
• Stable work history and a go-getter mentality.

Nice to Have

• Programming experience, especially editing or modifying existing programs.
• Experience with HAAS, Doosan, or Samson CNC machines.

Schedule & Compensation

• Shift: 1st Shift — 6:00 AM to 2:30 PM
• Overtime: Expected. Current machine shop schedule is generally 10-hour days Monday through Friday, plus a few hours on Saturdays
• Pay: $30–$32/hour
• Type: 4-month contract-to-hire
• Location: St. Charles, IL

Why This Opportunity Stands Out

• Family-owned manufacturer with strong leadership visibility and long-term stability.
• Highly collaborative environment with experienced machinists who actively mentor newer leaders.
• Opportunity to take a meaningful next step into leadership without leaving the floor.
• Products are custom engineered industrial lifts, meaning work is varied and quality-driven rather than repetitive high-volume production.

Please apply if interested.