CNC Machine Operator Manager

The CNC Machine Operator Manager is responsible for leading, directing, and coordinating all CNC machining and finishing operations within the production department. This role oversees a team of CNC Machine Operators and Lead Operators, ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality production while meeting customer specifications, production schedules, and company objectives. The CNC Machine Operator Manager is accountable for employee training, performance management, productivity improvement, quality control, equipment utilization, and adherence to all departmental policies, procedures, and safety standards.

This position provides hands-on leadership and technical expertise in CNC routing, cutting, machining, and finishing operations. The manager ensures operators are properly trained to select and load programs, set up machines, choose appropriate tooling, adjust machine parameters, interpret work orders, and perform routine maintenance to maximize equipment performance and product quality.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTION

• Lead, supervise, and develop a team of CNC Machine Operators, Lead Operators, and temporary personnel.
• Plan, organize, and coordinate daily CNC machining operations to meet production schedules and customer deadlines.
• Assign work responsibilities and monitor workflow to ensure efficient utilization of labor, equipment, and materials.
• Train, mentor, and evaluate CNC operators on machine setup, operation, troubleshooting, quality standards, safety procedures, and best practices.
• Ensure operators understand and accurately follow work orders, engineering drawings, production schedules, and customer specifications.
• Review and approve machine setups, tooling selections, fixture configurations, and CNC programs before production runs.
• Monitor machine performance and operator productivity to maximize throughput and minimize downtime.
• Ensure proper operation of CNC routers, cutters, machining centers, and related production equipment.
• Coordinate preventive maintenance activities and work closely with maintenance personnel to minimize equipment failures and production interruptions.
• Troubleshoot machining, tooling, programming, and production issues while providing technical guidance to operators.
• Monitor product quality throughout the manufacturing process and ensure compliance with company and customer standards.
• Conduct regular quality inspections and verify dimensional accuracy, material specifications, and finished product requirements.
• Implement and enforce quality assurance procedures and corrective actions when necessary.
• Analyze production metrics and identify opportunities to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and increase productivity.
• Recommend and implement process improvements, tooling enhancements, equipment upgrades, and workflow optimizations.
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations, company policies, and industry best practices.
• Conduct safety training and reinforce safe machine operation and workplace practices.
• Support workforce development through coaching, performance feedback, cross-training, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Maintain accurate production records, operator performance data, training documentation, and equipment maintenance logs.
• Collaborate with production management, scheduling, engineering, quality, and customer service teams to ensure operational success.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment consistent with 5S and lean manufacturing principles.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support manufacturing operations.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS / QUALIFICATIONS

Education: Associate's or Bachelor's Degree in Manufacturing, Production Management, Engineering Technology, Industrial Technology, or a related field preferred. Equivalent combination of education, technical training, and relevant experience will be considered.

Expereience

• Minimum of 5 years of CNC machining experience in a manufacturing or production environ
• ment.Minimum of 2–3 years of supervisory or management experience leading CNC machine operators and production personnel.
• Experience with CNC routers, cutters, machining centers, tooling selection, machine setup, and production workflow management.
• Experience in production scheduling, quality assurance, and continuous improvement initiatives preferred.

Special Skills / Qualifications

• Strong leadership, coaching, and team development skills.
• Extensive knowledge of CNC machine operation, setup procedures, tooling, feeds and speeds, and machining processes.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, work orders, and production specifications.
• Strong understanding of quality control methods, inspection techniques, and manufacturing best practices.
• Experience troubleshooting CNC equipment, production issues, and process inefficiencies.
• Excellent planning, scheduling, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to effectively lead and motivate teams.
• Proficient with production software, CNC machine controls, and manufacturing documentation systems.
• Commitment to workplace safety, operational excellence, and continuous improvement.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment while managing multiple priorities and deadlines.