CNC School Leader

Job Description American Rheinmetall is a leader in the design, development, and production of advanced tracked and wheeled vehicles, vehicle systems, and critical components that support U.S. military modernization. Our expertise spans electronic and mechanical systems, fabricated structures, armored products, rubber solutions, and track systems, delivering reliable innovation to both defense and commercial markets. As part of the global Rheinmetall family, we combine proven heritage with forward-looking technology to provide solutions that defend and feed the world. Job Summary: The CNC School Leader will be conferring with management to gain knowledge of specific work situations requiring employees to better understand standard machining practices, American Rheinmetall procedures and machining techniques. This position will be responsible for training and evaluating entry level machinists as well as in charge of the selection, development of testing and evaluation procedures to be used at completion of training. This position goes beyond training and is accountable for improving CNC Machinist performance, engagement, and retention. The role partners cross-functionally with Production, Quality, Engineering, and Human Resources to align training with operational needs and business objectives. Essential Functions: Leadership & Program OwnershipAn extensive working knowledge of CNC mill and lathe machines,Ability to operate and teach computer numerical control (CNC) mill and lathe machining centers to perform machine functions such as boring, facing, and threading parts of metallic work pieces such as castings, forgings and bar stock.Reading and interpreting blueprints, planning sheets, sketches, layout, job order and related technical data for product specifications such as dimensions and tolerances, and tooling instructions such as feed rates, cutting speeds, depth of cut, and determines control settings, material requirements, machining methods and sequence of operations.Selecting, positioning, and securing tool in tool holder (chuck, collet, or tool post).Positioning and securing workpiece in holding device, machine table, chuck, centers, or fixtures.Ability to move controls, to position tool and workpiece in relation to each other, and to set specified feeds, speeds, and depth of cut.Turn valve handle to direct flow of coolant or cutting oil against tool and workpiece.Start machine and monitor displays and machine operation to detect malfunctions.Capable of inspecting first run piece and spot checks succeeding pieces for conformance to specifications (including documentation of results).Enter commands or manually adjust machine controls to correct malfunctions or out-of-tolerance machining.Changing worn tools and cleaning machine, tooling, and parts.Operating bench grinder to sharpen tools.Performing light machine maintenance (check oil and coolant levels). Performance Monitoring & AccountabilityTrack and report key program metrics, including:CNC Machining progressionTime to competencyRetention ratesTraining effectiveness and production readinessMaintain accurate training and certification records in Plex and related systemsProvide monthly reporting and participate in bi-weekly training meetingsIdentify performance gaps and implement corrective actions Cross-Functional LeadershipPartner with Production to ensure machinists are prepared for real-world job demandsCollaborate with Quality to align training with machining standards and defect reduction goalsWork with HR to support onboarding, development, and retention strategiesSupport internal and external audits, including responding to customer training-related requirementsAssist supervisors, as needed, with certification processes such as overhead crane and forklift training Operational ExecutionMaintain training equipment, tools, and supply inventory, including ordering as requiredEnsure training environments are clean, organized, and professionalStore training aids and materials in approved locations Compliance & SafetyEnsure all training activities comply with company policies, procedures, and safety standardsMaintain required certifications and program compliance requirementsPromote and enforce safe work practices in both classroom and shop environmentsEnsure all trainees follow established policies, procedures, and safety expectationsConduct required evaluations Education & Experience: High school diploma or G.E.D. requiredMinimum of 10 years of machining experience in a production and/or training environmentExperience in training, coaching, or developing employees preferred Background Prerequisites: Must undergo and meet company standards for background check, employment verification, reference checks, physical, and controlled substance testing. Preferred Qualifications:Demonstrated experience developing structured training programsExperience building, improving, or scaling a workforce development or training program in a manufacturing environmentStrong understanding of production welding challenges, including variability, throughput, and real-world application of weld standardsProven ability to coach, mentor, and develop employees across varying skill levels, including entry-level and experienced weldersExperience identifying performance gaps and implementing targeted development plans to improve skill and retentionExperience improving employee retention or training effectiveness metrics within a manufacturing environmentFamiliarity with regulated manufacturing environments (AS9100, ISO14001, or similar)Experience using ERP or training tracking systems (Plex, Socrative, or similar) to manage workforce development and certification trackingDemonstrated ability to work cross-functionally with Production, Quality, and HR to drive alignment and resultsStrong communication skills with the ability to engage both shop floor employees and leadershipExperience supporting customer or third-party audits related to welding or training programs Performance Expectations: Success in this role will be demonstrated through:Improved welder retention and engagement across all locationsReduced time to competency and increased effectiveness of the CNC Machining ProgramConsistent training standards and delivery across all facilitiesImproved machining quality and reduction in training-related defectsStrong alignment between training outcomes and production needsPositive feedback from machinists, supervisors, and cross-functional partners Working Conditions and Physical Demands With or without reasonable accommodation, the employee must be able to perform all essential job functions. Work EnvironmentCombination of classroom, office, and manufacturing/shop floor environmentsExposure to shop conditions including noise, heat, fumes, and welding operationsClose proximity to moving equipment and other personnelRequired use of personal protective equipment (PPE) in designated areas Travel & Schedule RequirementsOccasional travel to other American Rheinmetall facilitiesAbility to work across multiple shifts (days and nights) to support training and evaluation needs as needed. Physical RequirementsFrequent standing and walkingOccasional SittingOccasional bending, stooping, and reachingOccasional repetitive motionOccasional lifting up to 25 pounds Additional Physical ConsiderationsAbility to demonstrate welding techniques and operate related equipmentAbility to move between classroom and shop environments throughout the workdayAbility to maintain focus and awareness in a dynamic manufacturing environment Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: American Rheinmetall provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sex (including pregnancy), gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or marital status, in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.