About RTCA:

RTCA is a precision aerospace and defense manufacturing group built on decades of hands-on machining expertise, with roots spanning more than 50 years. We support mission-critical commercial and government aerospace programs across North America through four U.S. Centers of Excellence operating as an integrated platform with 150+ CNC machines and a team of 250+ professionals.

Unlike large organizations where roles can be narrow, RTCA offers hands-on ownership and real visibility – you understand how your work supports the team, the operation, and the end customer. Our flat structure allows employees to take initiative, grow their skills, and have their contributions recognized, while still providing the stability, advanced technology, and meaningful work of an established aerospace manufacturer.

At RTCA, we believe in teamwork, excellence, and delivering with pride. One Team! One Mission!

How You’ll Make an Impact:

The Area Lead is a hands-on working CNC Machinist who provides day-to-day leadership within an assigned work cell, department, or shift while actively supporting production. This role helps coordinate workflow, maintain quality and safety standards, support training and development of team members, and work closely with Production, Quality, Engineering, and leadership to ensure efficient execution of aerospace manufacturing operations.

What you’ll be doing as an Area Lead:

Working a full-time, onsite position at our Rockford, MI location from 4pm to 2:30am (4- 10 hour shifts)
This position includes a $2/hr. Shift Differential.
Perform CNC machining, setup, and production activities while serving as a working lead within the assigned area.
Coordinate daily workflow and assist with prioritizing work to meet production schedules.
Provide day-to-day guidance, training, and support to CNC Operators and Machinists.
Monitor quality, safety, and procedural compliance, addressing issues as they arise.
Assist with troubleshooting production, tooling, and process issues, escalating when appropriate.
Communicate production status, resource needs, and concerns with Production, Engineering, Quality, and leadership.
Support continuous improvement and lean manufacturing initiatives.
Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications (Education, skills and experience):

Several years of CNC machining experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably aerospace.
Strong knowledge of CNC machining, setups, blueprints, GD&T, and inspection practices.
Demonstrated ability to lead by example and effectively support and train others.
Strong communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
Ability to balance production responsibilities with team coordination.

Preferred Qualifications (Education, skills and experience):

Experience leading a work cell, department, shift, or small production team.
Experience with multi-axis CNC machining and complex setups.
Knowledge of lean manufacturing and continuous improvement principles.
Experience with ERP/MRP systems and production scheduling.

Compensation and Benefits:

Medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
Choice of medical plan options, including a no-cost employee-only coverage plan
HSA-eligible health plan with employer contributions
Basic and supplemental life insurance
Long-term disability coverage
401(k) plan with up to a 6% QACA company match
Paid time off including vacation, sick time, and nine (9) paid company holidays
Shift differentials for applicable off-shifts
Discretionary bonus programs based on position and company performance

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

This position must meet Export Control compliance requirements, therefore a “US Person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.15 is required.

RTCA is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Applicants wishing to receive information on RTCA’s Affirmative Action Plans, or those requiring a reasonable accommodation to participate in the application or interview process, should contact the RTCA Human Resources Department. Qualified individuals with disabilities or disabled veterans who are unable or limited in their ability to access or use our career center due to a disability may request a reasonable accommodation by contacting Human Resources.

Candidates will receive consideration without discrimination in accordance with Article 9, Chapter XVIII of the City of Los Angeles Municipal Code and applicable federal, state, and local laws.

CNC Machinist - Swing Shift Lead

Key skills

About this role