Lead Machinist | Grand Rapids, MI

Salary Range: $57,000 - $87,000 depending on experience

Are you a seasoned professional with a passion for excelling in lead machinist? The Pivot Group is committed to fostering meaningful relationships and supporting community growth. We are collaborating with leading companies in Grand Rapids seeking Lead Machinists to lead and enhance their operations.

The Opportunity

We are working with companies in Grand Rapids that are adding Lead Machinists to their teams. These organizations value quality over speed in hiring. By connecting with us, you position yourself for opportunities that align with what you're looking for.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of machinists in daily operations and skill development.
• Set up, operate, and troubleshoot advanced CNC and manual machining equipment.
• Ensure the quality and accuracy of manufactured parts meet engineering specifications.
• Optimize machining processes and CNC programs for efficiency and precision.
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams to resolve technical challenges.
• Perform routine machine maintenance and identify needs for repair or calibration.
• Enforce safety protocols and maintain a clean, organized work environment.

Recommended Qualifications

• 5+ years of hands-on experience operating and setting up CNC and manual machining equipment.
• Proficiency in CNC programming (G-code, M-code) and CAM software (e.g., Mastercam, Fusion 360).
• Expert ability to read and interpret blueprints, apply GD&T, and utilize precision measuring instruments.
• Demonstrated leadership experience, including mentoring junior machinists, task delegation, and process optimization.
• Strong troubleshooting skills for machining processes and equipment, ensuring high-quality output and efficiency.

Bonus Qualifications

• Advanced proficiency with specific CAM software (e.g., Mastercam, SolidCAM, Fusion 360).
• Experience with preventative machine maintenance or minor troubleshooting and repair.
• Familiarity with Lean manufacturing principles or continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., 5S, Kaizen).
• Ability to design and fabricate custom jigs, fixtures, or tooling.
• Experience with multi-axis machining (e.g., 5-axis) or specialized processes (e.g., EDM, grinding).

Job Titles That Should Apply

Senior Machinist, Machinist Supervisor, Machining Lead, CNC Machinist Lead, Master Machinist, Machining Foreman, Precision Machinist Lead

Why Pivot Group

The Pivot Group 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.

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. The Pivot Group 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.