Lead Machinist | Plainwell, MI

Salary Range: $55,000 - $85,000 depending on experience

Are you a meticulous professional with a passion for excelling in lead machinist? The Pivot Group is dedicated to fostering meaningful relationships and supporting career growth. We are collaborating with companies in Plainwell seeking experienced Lead Machinists.

The Opportunity

We are partnering with organizations in Plainwell that are seeking Lead Machinists. These companies are committed to building strong teams and are looking for professionals who can lead initiatives effectively. By connecting with Pivot Group, you position yourself for roles that match your background and aspirations.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of machinists, providing technical guidance and training.
• Perform complex CNC machining operations, setups, and programming.
• Troubleshoot and resolve machining errors, equipment malfunctions, and quality issues.
• Ensure all manufactured parts meet strict quality standards and specifications through inspection.
• Optimize machining processes, tooling, and fixturing for efficiency and precision.
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams on new product development and process improvements.
• Maintain a safe and organized work environment, enforcing all safety protocols.

Recommended Qualifications

• Extensive hands-on experience (5+ years) with CNC machining, including setup, operation, and programming (G-code, CAM software).
• Proven leadership or supervisory experience within a manufacturing environment, including team training and task delegation.
• Proficiency in interpreting complex engineering blueprints, schematics, and Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills related to machining processes, tooling, and equipment.
• Solid understanding of quality control principles and experience utilizing precision measurement tools and inspection techniques.

Bonus Qualifications

• Proficiency in CAD/CAM software (e.g., Mastercam, SolidWorks CAM).
• Experience with advanced metrology equipment (e.g., CMM operation, surface finish analysis).
• Demonstrated experience with Lean Manufacturing principles or continuous improvement methodologies.
• Ability to perform minor machine maintenance and troubleshooting.

Job Titles That Should Apply

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