Lead CNC Machinist / Shop Lead Machinist - Prototyping & 5-Axis Milling

At a Glance

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Company: Gremlin Works LLC
Location: Faber, VA (near Charlottesville, Scottsville, and Lovingston)
Job Type: Full-Time
Pay Range: $35–$45 per hour (based on experience)
Shift: Day Shift | Typically 40+ hours per week
Overtime: Yes – project-based, typically 45–50 hours during busy periods
Experience Level: Mid-Senior (5+ years)
Work Authorization: U.S. Citizen Required

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Why This Role Exists

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Gremlin Works is growing its rapid prototyping and low-volume manufacturing capabilities across the aerospace, defense, energy, and semiconductor industries. As customer demand continues to increase, we're looking for a skilled machinist who can bridge the gap between programming and production by taking proven NC programs and turning them into safe, repeatable, shop-floor success.

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This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who enjoys solving complex machining challenges, proving out new parts, improving processes, and helping build a world-class machining operation.

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What You'll Be Doing

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In this role, you'll be responsible for turning complex CNC programs into successful production processes while supporting a fast-paced prototyping environment.

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Key Responsibilities

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• Set up, prove out, and execute CNC milling programs developed by dedicated CNC programmers
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• Lead first-article builds, prototype machining, and complex setup activities
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• Prepare and troubleshoot tooling, fixtures, workholding, and machine setups
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• Operate and optimize 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis CNC milling equipment
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• Manage small and medium production runs while maintaining quality and repeatability
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• Perform first-article and in-process inspection using precision measurement equipment
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• Identify and solve machining issues including chatter, tool wear, dimensional drift, workholding instability, and surface finish concerns
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• Collaborate closely with programmers to improve programs and machining strategies
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• Support and mentor other machinists while helping establish best practices throughout the shop
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• Assist with preventative maintenance, shop organization, and continuous improvement initiatives
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Because Gremlin Works is a growing company, you'll also have opportunities to contribute beyond machining and play a meaningful role in shaping future shop operations.

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Machines, Controls & Software

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You'll work with equipment and technology including:

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Machines

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• 3-Axis CNC Mills
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• 4-Axis CNC Mills
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• 5-Axis CNC Mills
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• Large-format CNC equipment (varies by project)
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Controls

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• Fanuc
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• Haas
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• Mazak
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CAM Software

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• Siemens NX (preferred)
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• Autodesk Fusion
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• Autodesk Inventor
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Inspection Equipment

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• Calipers
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• Micrometers
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• Indicators
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• First Article Inspection tools
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• GD&T-based inspection methods
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Materials You'll Work With

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• Aluminum
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• Stainless Steel
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• Alloy Steels
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• Tool Steels
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• Aerospace Alloys
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• Prototype and specialty materials
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What We're Looking ForRequired

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• 5+ years of CNC machining experience
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• Strong CNC milling setup and troubleshooting experience
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• Experience proving out new programs and processes
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• Ability to read and interpret complex blueprints and GD&T
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• Strong understanding of machining fundamentals, tooling, feeds, speeds, and workholding
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• Experience performing first-article and in-process inspections
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• Ability to read and understand G-code
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• Strong problem-solving skills and mechanical aptitude
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• Ability to work independently in a high-mix manufacturing environment
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Preferred

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• 4-axis and 5-axis machining experience
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• Prototype or contract manufacturing experience
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• Offline CAM programming experience
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• Siemens NX, Fusion 360, or Inventor experience
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• Mill-turn experience
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• Advanced fixturing experience
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• Machine maintenance and repair experience
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• CAD experience
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Why Machinists Like Working Here

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Machinists choose Gremlin Works because:

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• Every week brings new projects and new challenges
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• High-mix prototyping means you'll never be stuck making the same part all day
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• Small-team environment where your input matters
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• Direct collaboration with ownership and programmers
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• Modern CNC technology and advanced machining work
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• Opportunities to grow into leadership, programming, and operational roles
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• Fast-growing company with significant advancement potential
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If you're looking for a place where your machining knowledge has a direct impact on company success, Gremlin Works offers an opportunity that's difficult to find in larger manufacturing

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organizations.

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Pay, Benefits & SchedulePay Range

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$35–$45 per hour (DOE)

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Benefits

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• Health insurance plans available
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• Paid Time Off
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• Paid Holidays
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• Flexible scheduling
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• Performance-based bonuses
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• Relocation assistance available for qualified candidates
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• Opportunities for advancement and rapid skill development
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Schedule

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• Full-Time
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• Generally 40+ hours per week
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• Typical workload ranges from 40–50 hours based on project demand
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• Occasional weekend work may be required
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Apply

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Interested machinists can apply directly through hireCNC.

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Apply Now or Save This Job to come back later.