CNC/Tooling Supervisor

The Senior CNC/Tooling Supervisor leads the entire CNC machining and tooling function to ensure high-precision production, optimum tool utilization, process standardization, and workforce supervision. This role oversees complex machining operations, strategic tooling management, and continuous process improvements, while ensuring delivery, quality, and safety KPIs are consistently met. The position requires strong leadership, deep technical knowledge of CNC technologies, and the ability to drive performance and innovation.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic CNC Operations Leadership:

   • Manage CNC shop operations across multiple shifts, machines, and product lines.

   • Drive productivity, machine uptime, and throughput in line with production goals.

2. Advanced Tooling Management:

   • Develop and execute tooling strategies for tool life, performance, and cost optimization.

   • Oversee tool design reviews, selection of cutting tools, holders, and fixturing for complex parts.

3. Team Management & Training:

   • Lead, mentor, and evaluate CNC operators, setters, and junior supervisors.

   • Facilitate training programs in tooling, CNC techniques, and safety protocols.

4. Process Standardization & Optimization:

   • Establish and standardize CNC machining parameters, tooling best practices, and SOPs.

   • Implement lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and TPM to reduce waste and downtime.

5. Cross-Functional Collaboration:

   • Work with design, engineering, QA, and planning teams for NPI, DFM reviews, and continuous improvement.

   • Support troubleshooting of quality issues and feedback into product/process design.

6. Tool Inventory & Cost Control:

   • Monitor tooling inventory, vendor management, and tool crib operations.

   • Drive cost control by optimizing tool usage and preventing excessive wear or misuse.

7. Quality & Safety Assurance:

   • Ensure compliance with machining quality standards and regulatory safety protocols.

   • Lead root cause investigations on defects or tool-related issues.

Key Focus Areas:

• High-Precision CNC Operations Management

• Strategic Tooling & Cost Optimization

• Cross-Functional Coordination for NPI & Engineering Support

• Team Leadership & Technical Mentorship

• Lean, TPM, and Process Excellence Initiatives

Required Skills & Competencies:

Technical Expertise:

• In-depth knowledge of multi-axis CNC machines, tooling systems, and advanced machining techniques.

• Proficient in interpreting complex engineering drawings, tolerances, and GD&T.

Leadership & Strategic Thinking:

• Proven ability to lead large teams and drive continuous improvement at scale.

• Strategic thinker with cost, quality, and delivery alignment.

Process Improvement & Analysis:

• Strong experience in lean manufacturing, Six Sigma (preferred Green/Black Belt), and TPM.

• Ability to analyze machining data for process and tool performance improvement.

Software & Systems:

• Familiarity with CAM software (e.g., Mastercam, NX, Edgecam), ERP/MRP systems, and tool management software.

• CNC interfaces: Fanuc, Siemens, Mazak, Haas, or equivalent.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Education:

  • Diploma / B.E. / B.Tech in Mechanical / Production / Tool & Die Engineering

• Certifications (Preferred):

  • Advanced CNC & Tooling Certifications, Six Sigma, TPM, Industrial Safety

• Experience:

  • 8–15 years in CNC machining, tooling supervision, and team leadership

  • Experience in precision manufacturing environments (e.g., aerospace, defense, medical devices, automotive)