Entry Level Lead Machinist Jobs
New grad lead machinist jobs are open to recent graduates and entry level candidates with zero to two years of experience, where a strong portfolio or internship background can carry more weight than a lengthy work history. Most openings are on-site roles across Staffing & Recruiting, Manufacturing, and Energy, with employers like laborup, NOV, and Saint-Gobain hiring at this level now.
Find JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 68+ Entry Level Lead Machinist jobs











Job Summary
A CNC Machinist at Doble Engineering will set up, operate, and troubleshoot CNC equipment to produce high‑quality components according to engineering specifications. This role ensures precision machining, efficient workflow, and adherence to safety and quality standards. This position is based at Doble’s Accident, Maryland facility and reports to the Production Supervisor.
Responsibilities
- CNC Machine Setup & Operation
- Set up CNC mills/lathes according to work orders, blueprints, and specifications.
- Load tools, set offsets, verify proper tooling selection.
- Operate machines to produce parts within tolerance.
-
Perform first‑piece and in‑process inspections.
-
Blueprint & Technical Interpretation
- Read and interpret engineering drawings, GD&T callouts, and manufacturing specifications.
- Verify correct materials and tooling per job traveler.
-
Adjust programs or machine settings to maintain accuracy.
-
Quality Inspection & Documentation
- Use micrometers, calipers, height gauges, bore gauges, and other precision instruments.
- Document inspections and maintain accurate production records.
-
Identify and correct defects or variances.
-
Machine Maintenance & Troubleshooting
- Perform routine machine maintenance such as cleaning, lubrication, and inspection.
- Diagnose machining issues and make necessary adjustments.
-
Report mechanical or process issues promptly.
-
Safety & Production Efficiency
- Follow all shop safety rules, PPE requirements, and lockout/tagout procedures.
- Maintain a clean, organized work area.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives to reduce waste and improve throughput.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education:
- High school diploma or GED required.
- Technical certificate or vocational training in machining, manufacturing technology, or CNC operations preferred.
REQUIRED EXPERIENCE
- 2–5 years of CNC machining experience in a fabrication or manufacturing environment.
- Proficient with CNC mills and/or lathes.
- Experience using precision measuring tools.
- Ability to read blueprints and interpret GD&T.
- Basic understanding of G‑code operations and editing.
- Familiarity with modern CNC controls (e.g., Haas, Fanuc, Okuma, Mazak — tailor as needed).
PREFERRED EXPERIENCE (Not Required):
- Experience with multi‑axis CNC machining.
- Prior exposure to Lean Manufacturing or 5S.
- CAD/CAM programming experience (Mastercam, Fusion 360, etc.).
- Experience machining steel, aluminum, and specialty alloys.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:
- Strong mechanical aptitude and machining fundamentals.
- Ability to hold tight tolerances and maintain consistent quality.
- Knowledge of cutting tools, speeds, feeds, and materials.
- Basic troubleshooting and problem‑solving skills.
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
- Strong attention to detail and quality mindset.
- Good communication and teamwork skills.
- Ability to perform mathematical calculations related to machining.
- Must be able to pass required safety training.
- Forklift experience is a plus.
Physical Requirements:
While performing the duties of this job the employee is often required to stand, sit, use computers, read, write, type, use copy machines, file paperwork, use telephones, and utilize written and oral communication to interact with clients, co-workers, and customers. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions of this job. Must be capable of lifting 40 pounds. Must use assistance when lifting 50 or more pounds.
Actual base salary offered to the hired applicant will be determined based on their work location, level, qualifications, job related skills, as well as relevant education or training experience. Hourly Pay Range Minimum $23.85 - Midpoint $29.83
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
We are an Equal Employment Opportunity employer that values the strength diversity brings to the workplace. All qualified applicants, regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, gender identity or expression, national origin, genetics, age, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law, are strongly encouraged to apply.
The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) prohibits discrimination by employers, in compensation and employment opportunities, against qualified individuals with disabilities who, with or without reasonable accommodation, can perform the “essential functions” of a job. A function may be essential for any of several reasons, including: the job exists to perform that function, the employee holding the job was hired for his/her expertise in performing the function, or only a limited number of employees are available to perform that function.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.
See All 68 Entry Level Lead Machinist Jobs
Find roles that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find JobsEntry Level Lead Machinist Job Market
Who's Hiring
- laborup15

- NOV5

- Saint-Gobain5

- Laborup Manufacturing4L
- ARCH Medical Solutions4

Top Industries Hiring
- Staffing & Recruiting20
- Manufacturing13
- Energy5
- Medical Devices5
- Chemicals & Materials5
Entry Level Lead Machinist Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get an entry level lead machinist job?
Employers hiring entry level lead machinists look for hands-on experience with CNC equipment, blueprint reading, and basic quality inspection, whether from a machining program, vocational training, or an internship. Certifications from NIMS or a community college machining course strengthen your application. Highlighting any lab work, school projects, or apprenticeship hours shows hiring managers you can contribute from day one without a long work history.
Which companies hire entry level lead machinists?
Companies hiring entry level lead machinists right now include laborup, NOV, and Saint-Gobain, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. At this experience level, manufacturers, defense contractors, and precision fabrication shops tend to post the most openings, often with structured training or mentorship built into the role.
Are there remote entry level lead machinist jobs?
Yes, though most positions in this trade are on-site given the hands-on nature of machining work. About 0% of entry level lead machinist openings are remote or hybrid as of November 2026, and those tend to cover quality review, documentation, or CNC programming tasks that can be done off the shop floor.
Are these new grad lead machinist jobs?
Yes, the listings here include new grad, recent graduate, and junior roles that welcome candidates with little or no professional experience. A new grad-friendly posting typically states it accepts zero to two years of experience, considers internship or lab hours, or asks for a portfolio of machined parts rather than a full employment history. If a posting lists a degree or vocational certificate as the main requirement, it is generally open to new graduates.
Which industries hire the most entry level lead machinists?
Entry Level lead machinist roles concentrate in Staffing & Recruiting, Manufacturing, and Energy, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. These sectors drive hiring at this level because they rely on high-volume or precision production cycles that require a steady pipeline of trained machinists, making them more willing to bring on candidates early and develop their skills on the job.