Overview
Custom Design Components is looking for a hands-on CNC Lead Machinist to lead its second-shift machining team in Howard City, Michigan.
This is not a desk supervisory position. You will work directly with machinists on the shop floor, help resolve production and quality issues, support setups and machine operation, and keep projects moving according to schedule.
The right candidate will bring strong CNC machining knowledge along with the ability to train employees, address performance concerns, improve processes, and maintain a productive and professional shop environment.
What you’ll be doing
Machining and technical support
- Set up and operate CNC machines
- Read and interpret technical drawings and job specifications
- Select appropriate tooling and help troubleshoot machining problems
- Inspect completed parts using measuring tools and gauges
- Verify that finished components meet dimensional and quality requirements
- Support routine machine and tooling maintenance
- Help resolve production obstacles and reduce rework
Team leadership
- Lead and support machinists working on second shift
- Monitor shop-floor productivity and address performance concerns
- Train and cross-train employees on machining processes and responsibilities
- Recognize strong performers and provide direct coaching where improvement is needed
- Promote teamwork, accountability, and high morale
- Maintain clear communication with the Production Manager and leadership team
- Ensure employees follow company quality, housekeeping, and safety standards
Production and shop management
- Work with the Production Manager to confirm shop capabilities and priorities
- Understand the scope, schedule, and requirements of active projects
- Identify production risks and develop practical solutions
- Investigate recurring issues and implement lasting corrective actions
- Coordinate preventative maintenance during available machine downtime
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe manufacturing environment
Machines, tools & systems
This position requires experience working with:
- CNC milling machines
- Precision measuring equipment
- Calipers, micrometers, gauges, and related inspection tools
- ERP software
- Manual machine tools
CNC machine brands and controls
· OKK Vertical Mills
· Brother Mills
· Fanuc Controls
Shop highlights
- Family-owned manufacturer founded in 1993
- Hands-on leadership role
- Custom and standard hydraulic manifold manufacturing
- CNC milling and turning capabilities
- Prototype through production-volume work
- Strong emphasis on clean, burr-free components
- Opportunities to improve processes and develop employees
- Down-to-earth, team-oriented work environment
What we’re looking for
Required
- Strong experience setting up and operating CNC machine tools
- Ability to modify and write ‘G’ and ‘M’ Code
- Previous experience as a production lead, machining lead, or similar manufacturing leader
- Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills
- Ability to coach employees and address performance or quality concerns
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical specifications
- Strong tooling and machining-process knowledge
- Experience using precision measuring instruments
- Ability to troubleshoot practical machining and production problems
- Commitment to workplace safety and continuous improvement
Preferred
- Background in hydraulic manifold or fluid-power component manufacturing
- Experience with manual machining equipment
Why you’ll like working here
You will have the opportunity to stay involved in machining while taking responsibility for the performance of an entire shift.
You will have the authority to coach employees, improve processes, address production problems, and help build a stronger machining team. The company values employees who are dedicated, driven, trustworthy, and willing to take ownership of their work.
Pay, benefits & schedule
Starting Pay: $30 to $35 per hour
Schedule: Full-time, second shift. Monday thru Thursday 2:30 pm to 2:00 am
Pay Period: Every two weeks
Benefits include:
- Health insurance- $60 per pay period for single, $67.50 1 dependent, $75 family
- IRA retirement plan with $50 per pay period company match
- Paid time off based on years of service
- Paid Holidays
- Gym membership
About Custom Design Components
Custom Design Components is a family-owned hydraulic manifold manufacturer based in Howard City, Michigan. Founded in 1993, the company manufactures custom and standard hydraulic manifolds along with CNC-turned components for distributors and customers across several industries.
Custom Design Components currently has a staff of 20 people. Full-time second shift staff of 6 people.
Its capabilities include custom manifold design, CNC milling, CNC turning, quality assurance, and thermal deburring. The company serves applications in agriculture, construction, industrial equipment, medical, and other demanding markets.
Custom Design Components takes pride in producing world class hydraulic manifolds and other fluid power components. Its culture is built around three core values: dedicated, driven, and trustworthy.
Pay: $30.00 - $35.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k) matching
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
Experience:
- CNC machine: 5 years (Required)
Shift availability:
Ability to Commute:
- Howard City, MI 49329 (Required)
Work Location: In person
