Lead CNC Machinist III at Southwestern Industries – Rancho Dominguez, California
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About This Position
Company
TRAK Machine Tools is a manufacturer in the field of metalworking machinery. Our main product is a specialized computer that controls machine motion. The main office is in Rancho Dominguez, CA, just south of Los Angeles off the 91 and 710 freeways. We have customers all over North America and a wholly owned subsidiary in the UK. For more information about the company, see our website at www.southwesternindustries.com.
Job Overview
TRAK Machine Tools is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Lead CNC Machinist (Level III) to join our manufacturing team. This role combines advanced machining expertise with team leadership responsibilities.
The Lead CNC Machinist is responsible for programming, setting up, and machining complex high-precision components while also supporting daily shop operations. This individual serves as a technical leader and mentor, helping develop less experienced machinists, improving manufacturing processes, and ensuring the highest standards of quality, safety, and productivity.
The ideal candidate is capable of independently managing complex machining jobs from programming through completion while also supporting the supervisor in coordinating workflow, training team members, and maintaining an efficient and positive shop environment.
Responsibilities
Machining and Technical Responsibilities
- Program, set up, and operate CNC machines (mills and lathes) for production and prototype parts
- Design and fabricate custom fixtures and workholding solutions.
- Read and interpret complex engineering drawings, CAD models, and specifications
- Machine tight-tolerance parts to ±0.0001"
- Perform first-article inspections and make in-process adjustments as needed
- Train and mentor CNC Machinist Levels 1 and 2
- Collaborate with engineering on design-for-manufacturability feedback
- Recommend and implement improvements in tooling, methods, and processes
- Work independently to manage assigned jobs from programming through completion
- Maintain clean, organized, and safe work environment
- Create and modify digital job folders – operation, setup and inspection forms
- Lead and oversee daily workflow, ensuring efficiency and productivity.
- Act as the go-to person and subject matter expert for team members.
- Set a positive example through professional conduct and work ethic.
- Assist the supervisor with training new and existing employees.
- Fill in for workers during absences or high-demand periods.
- Ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.
Qualifications
- Minimum 8 years of CNC machining experience, including programming and complex setups
- Deep understanding of cutting tools, feeds/speeds, materials, and high precision workholding
- Strong ability to interpret detailed engineering drawings and GD&T
- Proven track record of machining to ±0.0001" tolerances
- Able to troubleshoot and resolve technical machining challenges independently
- Experience with Siemens Sinumerik One, ProtoTRAK, and Mazak controls
- Exposure to prototype and low-volume production environments
- Experience machining a wide range of materials, including aluminum, cast iron and various steels
- Familiarity with lean manufacturing or continuous improvement initiatives
- Proven experience in a leadership role within a manufacturing environment.
- Strong understanding of workflow and production processes.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- An ability to set a positive example and motivate team members.
- Experience in training and mentoring employees.
- High school diploma or equivalent; technical degree preferred.
DISCLAIMER
The above description is not intended to be interpreted as an exhaustive list of skills, qualifications, and duties for this role. Southwestern Industries, Inc. – TRAK Machine Tools retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position.
Southwestern Industries, Inc. – TRAK Machine Tools is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. All applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.
Southwestern Industries, Inc. – TRAK Machine Tools is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its employment opportunities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and other applicable laws.
DISCLAIMER
The above description is not intended to be interpreted as an exhaustive list of skills, qualifications, and duties for this role. Southwestern Industries, Inc. – TRAK Machine Tools retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position.
Southwestern Industries, Inc. – TRAK Machine Tools is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. All applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.
Southwestern Industries, Inc. – TRAK Machine Tools is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its employment opportunities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and other applicable laws.
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Job Location
Job Location
This job is located in the Rancho Dominguez, California, 90220, United States region.