CNC Team Lead - job 1 of 2

The CNC Team Lead at Crusoe is responsible for coordinating daily team performance, ensuring production schedules are met without compromising on quality or safety. This involves overseeing tasks, communicating with the Sr. Supervisor about production constraints, and providing technical support to the team. Additionally, the CNC Team Lead engages in process improvement initiatives to maintain safety and efficiency in line with Crusoe's high standards.

To be considered for the CNC Team Lead role at Crusoe, candidates should possess strong technical skills in CNC operations and metal manufacturing. Prior management experience is preferred, along with proficiency in software such as AutoCAD and ERP systems. Moreover, excellent communication and interpersonal skills are essential as the role demands collaboration within the team and with senior supervisors.

A typical day for a CNC Team Lead at Crusoe involves coordinating team tasks, monitoring production schedules, and overseeing the CNC & brake team’s operations. You’ll spend your time ensuring that team members are adhering to safety protocols while also training them on project tasks. Communication is key—updating the Sr. Supervisor about team performance and any constraints is part of the daily rhythm, along with continuous process improvements to enhance work efficiency.

Success as a CNC Team Lead at Crusoe hinges on technical expertise in CNC machine tools and a solid understanding of metal manufacturing processes. Strong leadership and training abilities are crucial for developing team talent. Effective communication skills and an emphasis on safety compliance are equally important, as the role involves regular interaction with team members and senior management to drive productivity and maintain high standards.

Working as a CNC Team Lead at Crusoe comes with various benefits, including competitive pay and restricted stock units in a fast-growing technology company. Additionally, you can expect a comprehensive health insurance package, a 401(k) plan with matching contributions, and generous paid time off. Crusoe also supports continued learning through tuition reimbursement and offers additional perks such as a pet-friendly office environment and a subscription to the Calm app for stress management.

When answering this question, detail your hands-on experience with CNC machines, showcasing any specific programs or software you’ve worked with. Highlight any challenges you faced and how you overcame them through your programming skills. Providing examples that demonstrate a clear understanding of design accuracy and adherence to company standards will help illustrate your proficiency.

Talk about your method for assessing and prioritizing tasks, ensuring deadlines are met while maintaining quality and safety standards. Reference specific strategies like using production schedules, team communication, or project management tools to keep track of priorities. Effective organization will be key in demonstrating your capability to handle multiple responsibilities.

Focus on your proactive approach to safety by outlining the safety standards you enforce within your team. Discuss training methods you’ve used to educate team members on procedures and protocols, as well as any regular safety audits or discussions you lead to cultivate a safe working environment.

Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to explain a specific instance where you identified a process flaw and enacted a solution. Highlight the impact this had on team effectiveness or productivity, and be sure to quantify results where possible to underline the importance of continuous improvement in your experience.

Address how you would approach underperformance with communication and empathy. Discuss outlining clear expectations, conducting one-on-one meetings to understand challenges they may be facing, and strategizing together for their improvement. Also, mention the importance of ongoing training and support to help them reach their potential.

Explain that coaching involves a blend of mentorship, skill development, and feedback. Highlight your tactics for assessing individual team member skills, providing constructive feedback, and fostering an environment where team members feel comfortable asking questions and seeking guidance, ultimately leading to their professional growth.

Discuss your proficiency with ERP systems, particularly how you’ve used such software to manage inventory, track production schedules, or maintain documentation of CNC materials. Give real-life examples of how this software improved team efficiency or streamlined processes in previous roles.

Reflect on personal motivations that drive you, such as watching team members grow, achieving safety and production goals, or introducing innovative processes. Illustrating your passion for fostering a productive environment and maintaining high morale will resonate with interviewers who value strong leadership.

Share specific quality control measures you implement, whether in checking outputs, conducting regular quality audits, or training your team on recognized standards. Highlight how you encourage a culture of quality within the team which aligns with Crusoe's commitment to excellence.

Explain your systematic approach to troubleshooting machinery issues. Discuss how you identify the problem, communicate with the team, and implement temporary backfill where needed. Your focus should be on ensuring safety while swiftly addressing machinery issues to prevent production delays.