Machinist

Lead Machine Operator

Sulzer is a leading engineering company with a proud heritage of innovation. Join our global team to grow your expertise and develop innovative solutions that enable a prosperous and more sustainable society.

About the Role

The Lead Machine Operator is responsible for overseeing the operation of machinery and equipment on the production floor, ensuring optimal performance and adherence to safety and quality standards. This role provides guidance to other machine operators and supports troubleshooting and maintenance activities. This job profile is intended for professional-level staff that works autonomously and may coordinate the activities of other professional-level staff, especially in non-routine situations.

The following job description and duties are not meant to be all encompassing of the assigned duties. Due to business demands, job duties are variable by nature and subject to revisions, additions or deletions as may be determined and directed by Management or Supervision.

Sets up and operates machine tools, including HBM, VBM, lathes, milling machines, ID/OD grinders, planers, and bore, without assistance, following department policy and procedures manual, to manufacture and recondition component parts to customer, OEM and industry standards. Interprets mechanical drawings, blueprints, and sketches and performs precision metal cutting, grinding, shaping and fitting. Measures components, parts, and raw materials with precision measuring instruments, gauges, and tools. Works under limited supervision.

Performs layouts, sets up, and operates conventional machine tools as required

Reads and interprets all drawings, including geometric dimensioning and tolerancing

Designs setups and methods where none exist

Instructs other shop personnel in proper machining techniques

Continually improving methods to deliver higher quality with improved costs

Completion of a machinist apprentice program or hands on training

G code programming is a plus

Ability to hold close tolerances and conduct component inspections

Demonstrated ability to effectively set up all, or at least most, of the following machines: I.D./O.D. Grinder, Turret Lathe, Engine Lathe, Knee Mill, Radial Drill, Horizontal Boring Mill, Vertical Boring Mill, and Planer Mill

Ability to perform with a minimum of direct supervision

Working knowledge of tool geometry and application

Working knowledge of effects of feeds and speeds

At least 4 years experience in machine shops on the above equipment

Willingness to work in a team environment

Ability to work overtime as required

While performing duties of this job, would occasionally be required to stand, walk, sit, reach with hands and arms, climb or balance, stoop or kneel, talk and hear, and use fingers and hands to feel objects. Ability to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds

What We Offer You

15 days of paid time off and 12 company-paid holidays

401k plan with a 6% match

Comprehensive health plan including medical, dental, vision, Life, short-term & long-term disability

Health savings account matching

Motivating wellness program

Employee Assistance Program

Paid paternal leave

Gym reimbursement

Sulzer is an equal opportunity employer. We believe in the strength of a diverse workforce and are committed to offering an inclusive work environment.

We are proud to be recognized as a Top Employer 2026 in Brazil, Canada, China, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Mexico, Switzerland, South Africa, the UK and the USA.