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Machinist Lead

Dakotaland Manufacturing

Watertown, SD

Posted/Updated: Today

Job Description

Now Hiring: Production Lead - Machining
Dakotaland Manufacturing | Full-Time | Nights

Are you a skilled machinist who is ready to take the next step into leadership? Dakotaland Manufacturing is looking for a Production Lead - Machining to help drive safety, quality, productivity, and team success in our manufacturing operation.

This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who enjoys leading by example, supporting team members, solving problems, and producing high-quality precision parts. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment and take pride in mentoring others while keeping production moving, we want to hear from you.

Schedule
Monday-Thursday
3:30 p.m. - 2:00 a.m.
Overtime as required

Pay Range
$24-$30 per hour, depending on experience + 12.5%-night shift differential

Benefits Include

  • Low-cost insurance

  • 8 paid holidays + 24 hours of floating holiday

  • PTO

  • 401(k) with up to 4% company match

What You’ll Do

  • Coordinate and oversee daily operations within the machining area to ensure production meets safety, quality, and delivery expectations

  • Assign work priorities and monitor output to maintain schedules, specifications, and established procedures

  • Train, mentor, and support team members on safe work practices, quality standards, and performance expectations

  • Set up, adjust, and operate CNC machines, mills, lathes, and related equipment to produce precision components

  • Select, align, and secure tools, fixtures, and materials while regulating feeds and speeds for efficient machine performance

  • Measure, inspect, and verify finished parts using precision instruments to ensure conformance to engineering requirements

  • Perform basic maintenance and calibration of equipment while maintaining a clean, organized, and safe work area

  • Conduct spot inspections, identify quality or process issues, and support problem-solving efforts to prevent recurrence

  • Communicate daily with the Production Supervisor regarding production status, team performance, and training needs

  • Support continuous improvement and 5S efforts to improve safety, quality, and efficiency

  • Participate in employee performance discussions and provide input for evaluations and personnel decisions

  • Ensure compliance with company policies, PPE requirements, and environmental standards

What We’re Looking For

  • 2+ years of CNC lathe setup and operation experience required

  • Lathe setup and operation experience required

  • Ability to read and understand engineering drawings, blueprints, and shop drawing aids

  • Strong problem-solving skills and ability to multitask and work independently

  • Forklift experience preferred

  • Good verbal and written communication skills

  • Strong teamwork orientation and ability to adapt in a fast-paced manufacturing environment

  • High school diploma or GED preferred

  • Advanced education is a plus

Why Dakotaland Manufacturing?
At Dakotaland Manufacturing, we are committed to building better — better people, better products, and better processes. We value leaders who promote teamwork, continuous improvement, accountability, and safety while living out our Vision, Mission, Values, and UPSCALE culture every day.

Equal Opportunity Employer
Dakotaland Manufacturing is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment for all employees. Our goal is to create a workplace where everyone feels valued and respected.

If you have the experience and skills to contribute to our team, we encourage you to apply. Join us and be a part of a company that values quality, safety, and continuous improvement.

Dakotaland Manufacturing
3415 W Hovland Dr
Sioux Falls, SD 57107