Machining Lead
Job Description
Location: West of Rockford, IL
Salary: $90,000 – $100,000
This role is for a well-established CNC machinery setting with various Mazak machines. They are seeking an individual to grow into their next machining leader. This person will eventually become a subject matter expert.
- Lead optimization of setups and programs to improve part quality and reduce cycle times
- Troubleshoot issues related to machine behavior, tooling, and setups
- Mentor and train junior machinists and programmers on the floor and at the desk
- Develop and implement training programs for new and existing employees
- Drive continuous improvement within the machining department
- Communicate effectively with shop personnel, engineering, QC, and production management
- Maintain accountability and ownership of machining operations
- Apply lean manufacturing principles, including quick-change setups and offline tool presetting
- Stay calm under pressure and solve problems in turnaround or high-demand environments
- 5–15 years of hands-on CNC machining experience, including complex setups and troubleshooting
- Expert-level programming skills in conversational and G-code systems (Fanuc, Mazak, Haas, Siemens, Okuma)
- Proficient in CAM software (Mastercam, Fusion 360, Esprit, or equivalent) with 3D surfacing and multi-axis experience
- Strong setup and operation skills on:
- CNC Vertical Machining Centers (3- and 4-axis)
- CNC Horizontal Machining Centers
- CNC Multi-tasking Lathes with sub-spindle
- Swiss machines (preferred)
Meet Your Recruiter
Ashley Schmitt
Technical Recruiter
Ashley Schmitt is a dedicated and experienced Senior Recruiting Team Lead passionate about empowering individuals through career opportunities. With an impressive track record of 8 years at Sterling, she has significantly impacted the organization's talent acquisition and development strategies.
With a remarkable 12-year career in the field of recruiting, Ashley has garnered a deep understanding of the industry's dynamics and trends. She has witnessed the ever-changing job market and thrived in guiding people through its complexities. For Ashley, the most rewarding aspect of recruitment is finding people roles that can genuinely improve their professional lives.
As a Senior Recruiting Team Lead, Ashley's leadership abilities shine through as she leads her team to excel in their roles. She believes in fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment where all team member's strengths are recognized and utilized to achieve collective success.
Advice for candidates from Ashley: “Reflect on your skill sets and what makes you happy, be realistic about your strengths and weaknesses. Strengthen your online presence and always be networking!”