About this opportunity
Systems Engineering & Automation Corp lists this CNC Shift Lead/ Supervisor opportunity in milwaukee, Wisconsin. Review the employer’s description below for duties, qualifications and application requirements.
Job description
Job Description Job Description Job description:
CNC Shift Lead/ Supervisor
Department: Manufacturing & Machining Operations
Reports To: Production Manager / Director of Manufacturing
Positions Available: 4 (One per Group/Shift)
Experience Required: 5-10 Years Machining, CNC Programming & Supervision
U.S. Citizenship: Required or US Work Authorization
Shift Schedule
Group 1, Day: Mon-Wed + Thu (half day) 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Group 1, Night: Mon-Wed + Thu (half day) 6:00 PM - 6:00 AM
Group 2, Day: Thu (half day) + Fri-Sun 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Group 2, Night: Thu (half day) + Fri-Sun 6:00 PM - 6:00 AM
All shifts follow a 3.5 days on / 3.5 days off rotating schedule - averaging approximately 42 hours per week. Shift differential pay applies to all night shifts.
Position Summary
We are seeking four experienced CNC Shift Lead/Supervisors - one per Group/Shift - to lead machining operations in our aerospace manufacturing facility. This is a dual-role position: you will both supervise all CNC operators on your assigned shift and actively operate and program CNC machines to support production goals. The ideal candidate brings 5-10 years of hands-on machining and CNC programming expertise alongside a proven track record of leading production teams, upholding strict quality standards, and driving continuous improvement on the shop floor.
Key Responsibilities
Supervisory & Leadership
Directly supervise and coordinate all CNC operators on the assigned shift, providing real-time direction, support, and performance feedback.
Serve as the primary point of contact and decision-maker on the shop floor during the shift in the absence of upper management.
Monitor shift production output, quality metrics, and on-time delivery; report status and escalate issues as needed.
Conduct shift start-up meetings to communicate daily priorities, safety topics, and production targets.
Train, mentor, and develop CNC operators in machine operation, quality standards, and company procedures.
Participate in performance reviews, disciplinary actions, and employee development plans in coordination with management.
Ensure smooth shift handoffs by communicating open issues, machine status, and in-progress work orders to the oncoming supervisor.
Machine Operation & Programming
Operate CNC lathes, turning centers, and milling machines as needed to support production, cover staffing gaps, or demonstrate techniques.
Write, edit, and optimize CNC programs (G-code/M-code) at the machine control and/or CAM software to meet drawing requirements and cycle time targets.
Set up machines including tooling selection, work holding, offsets, and first-article verification before production runs.
Troubleshoot machining issues including dimensional non-conformances, surface finish problems, tool wear, and program errors.
Drive process improvement initiatives to prevent scrap, improve cycle times, and increase overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).
Quality & Compliance
Enforce adherence to ISO9001 quality management procedures, work instructions, and inspection requirements on the shift.
Perform and oversee first-article, in-process, and final inspections using precision measurement equipment.
Initiate and document non-conformance reports (NCRs).
Maintain a clean and organized work environment (5S standards).
Ensure all shift documentation - travelers, work orders, inspection records - is completed accurately and on time.
Safety
Champion a safety-first culture; conduct daily safety observations and immediately address unsafe conditions or behaviors.
Ensure all operators follow PPE requirements, lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures, and machine guarding protocols.
Report and document workplace incidents, near-misses, and safety hazards in a timely manner.
Required Qualifications
5-10 years of hands-on CNC machining experience in an aerospace or defense precision manufacturing environment.
Demonstrated experience in CNC programming using G-code/M-code.
Minimum 2 years of supervisory, lead, or foreman experience managing CNC operators or machining teams.
Strong ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, GD&T callouts, and manufacturing specifications.
Proven ability to hold and maintain tolerances of 0.001" or tighter across a production shift.
Experience with precision measurement instruments: micrometers, calipers, CMMs, bore gauges, etc.
Knowledge of aerospace materials (aluminum alloys, titanium, Inconel, stainless steel) and their machining characteristics.
Familiarity with ISO9001 & AS9100 quality management systems and aerospace production documentation requirements.
Strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills with the ability to prioritize in a fast-paced environment.
U.S. Citizenship required.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with multi-axis CNC turning/milling centers and live tooling.
Proficiency with CAM software (Mastercam, Fusion 360, or equivalent).
NIMS (National Institute for Metalworking Skills) certification or equivalent.
Vocational training, apprenticeship, or associate degree in machining technology, manufacturing engineering, or a related field.
Experience implementing 5S.
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
Manufacturing floor environment with exposure to machine noise, coolant fluids, metal chips, and varying temperatures.
Required PPE: safety glasses, steel-toed boots, hearing protection, and cut-resistant gloves.
Must be able to stand, walk, and lift throughout the shift; occasional lifting of tooling and fixtures up to 50 lbs.
All positions follow a 3.5 days on / 3.5 days off rotating schedule with 12-hour shifts, averaging approximately 42 hours per week.
What We Offer
Competitive hourly wage of $33-$45/hr (Day Shift), with shift differential pay for Night Shift ($34.50-$46.50/hr), commensurate with experience.
Profit Sharing.
Health insurance reimbursement.
Paid time off, holidays, and sick leave.
Tuition reimbursement and support for professional certifications.
Stable, long-term employment in a growing aerospace and defense sector.
Collaborative team environment with opportunities for advancement into senior machinist, lead, or programming roles.
Clear advancement path into senior leadership, process engineering, or programming roles.
Benefits:
Health insurance
Paid time off
Worksite address
milwaukee, WI, 53227, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.