Lead Machinist | Petoskey, MI

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

Are you a detail-oriented professional with a passion for excelling as a lead machinist? The Pivot Group Network, a Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is dedicated to fostering meaningful relationships and supporting career advancement. We collaborate with leading companies in the Petoskey area seeking experienced Lead Machinists.

We are building our network of talent in this field across Michigan's manufacturing regions. Our partner companies may or may not have an immediate opening for this exact role today, but we actively look for skilled professionals in the regions where they operate. If there is alignment now or in the near future, we reach out.

This posting covers Lead Machinist opportunities with manufacturers based in and around Petoskey in Emmet County, within about 45 minutes of the city, including Harbor Springs, Boyne City, Charlevoix, and East Jordan.

The Opportunity

We collaborate with manufacturing firms in the Petoskey area that seek skilled Lead Machinists. These organizations are dedicated to maintaining high standards and look for professionals who can contribute effectively. By joining our network, you position yourself for opportunities aligned with your career goals.

Usual Responsibilities

• Troubleshoot machine issues and adjust programs to correct defects.
• Plan job sequences and coordinate work across the shop floor.
• Maintain tooling inventory and keep machines clean and calibrated.
• Document production counts and quality checks for each shift.
• Set up and operate CNC and manual machines for daily production runs.
• Read blueprints and work from drawings to meet tight tolerances.
• Lead and train machinists on setup, tooling, and safe work practices.
• Inspect finished parts with calipers, micrometers, and gauges.

Recommended Qualifications

• Ability to lead a small team and train others.
• Solid math skills and attention to detail.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Five or more years of hands-on machining experience.
• Strong blueprint reading and GD&T knowledge.
• Experience setting up and running CNC mills and lathes.

Bonus Qualifications

• Familiarity with lean manufacturing practices.
• Welding or fabrication experience.
• Prior lead or supervisory role in a machine shop.
• Formal machinist apprenticeship or technical certificate.
• Experience with CAD or CAM software.

Job Titles That Should Apply

Machining Team Lead, Setup Machinist, CNC Machinist, Senior Machinist, Machine Shop Supervisor, Tool and Die Machinist, CNC Programmer, Manual Machinist, Production Machinist

Work Authorization

Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. without current or future visa sponsorship. Visa sponsorship is not available.

Why The Pivot Group Network

The Pivot Group Network 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. Learn more at https://www.thepivotgroup.org.

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 at https://www.thepivotgroup.org. The Pivot Group Network 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.