Lead Machinist - Grand Haven Area

Lead Machinist | Grand Haven, MI

Salary Range: $54,000 - $84,000 depending on experience

Are you ready to take on a challenging and rewarding opportunity in {{role_field}}? The Pivot Group is committed to building meaningful connections in manufacturing. We partner with leading companies in Grand Haven seeking Lead Machinists.

The Opportunity

We partner with manufacturers across Grand Haven seeking Lead Machinists who want more than a lateral move. These companies hire intentionally, and we connect them with professionals ready for roles that fit.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of machinists, providing technical guidance and training.
• Operate, set up, and program complex CNC machinery for precision part manufacturing.
• Perform quality control inspections on machined parts, ensuring adherence to specifications and blueprints.
• Troubleshoot and resolve machining issues, performing preventative maintenance on equipment.
• Optimize machining processes to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance product quality.
• Coordinate production schedules and prioritize work orders to meet manufacturing deadlines.
• Ensure compliance with all safety protocols and maintain a safe working environment.

Recommended Qualifications

• Extensive experience (5+ years) in precision machining, including advanced CNC mill and lathe operation, setup, and tooling.
• Proficiency in G-code programming and CAM software (e.g., Mastercam, Fusion 360) for complex part fabrication.
• Demonstrated ability to interpret complex engineering blueprints, schematics, and apply Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Proven leadership skills, including mentoring junior machinists, delegating tasks, and overseeing shop workflow.
• Expertise in using precision measurement tools (e.g., micrometers, calipers, CMM) and implementing quality control processes.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities for machining processes and equipment.

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience designing and fabricating custom fixtures and tooling.
• Demonstrated knowledge of preventative maintenance and troubleshooting for CNC machinery.
• Certification or practical experience with Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma methodologies.
• Proficiency in advanced 3D CAD modeling for complex part design or simulation.

Job Titles That Should Apply

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

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.