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 Ownership
An 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 & Accountability
Track and report key program metrics, including:
CNC Machining progression
Time to competency
Retention rates
Training effectiveness and production readiness
Maintain accurate training and certification records in Plex and related systems
Provide monthly reporting and participate in bi-weekly training meetings
Identify performance gaps and implement corrective actions
Cross-Functional Leadership
Partner with Production to ensure machinists are prepared for real-world job demands
Collaborate with Quality to align training with machining standards and defect reduction goals
Work with HR to support onboarding, development, and retention strategies
Support internal and external audits, including responding to customer training-related requirements
Assist supervisors, as needed, with certification processes such as overhead crane and forklift training
Operational Execution
Maintain training equipment, tools, and supply inventory, including ordering as required
Ensure training environments are clean, organized, and professional
Store training aids and materials in approved locations
Compliance & Safety
Ensure all training activities comply with company policies, procedures, and safety standards
Maintain required certifications and program compliance requirements
Promote and enforce safe work practices in both classroom and shop environments
Ensure all trainees follow established policies, procedures, and safety expectations
Conduct required evaluations
Education & Experience:
High school diploma or G.E.D. required
Minimum of 10 years of machining experience in a production and/or training environment
Experience 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 programs
Experience building, improving, or scaling a workforce development or training program in a manufacturing environment
Strong understanding of production welding challenges, including variability, throughput, and real-world application of weld standards
Proven ability to coach, mentor, and develop employees across varying skill levels, including entry-level and experienced welders
Experience identifying performance gaps and implementing targeted development plans to improve skill and retention
Experience improving employee retention or training effectiveness metrics within a manufacturing environment
Familiarity 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 tracking
Demonstrated ability to work cross-functionally with Production, Quality, and HR to drive alignment and results
Strong communication skills with the ability to engage both shop floor employees and leadership
Experience 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 locations
Reduced time to competency and increased effectiveness of the CNC Machining Program
Consistent training standards and delivery across all facilities
Improved machining quality and reduction in training-related defects
Strong alignment between training outcomes and production needs
Positive 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 Environment
Combination of classroom, office, and manufacturing/shop floor environments
Exposure to shop conditions including noise, heat, fumes, and welding operations
Close proximity to moving equipment and other personnel
Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE) in designated areas
Travel & Schedule Requirements
Physical Requirements
Frequent standing and walking
Occasional Sitting
Occasional bending, stooping, and reaching
Occasional repetitive motion
Occasional lifting up to 25 pounds
Additional Physical Considerations
Ability to demonstrate welding techniques and operate related equipment
Ability to move between classroom and shop environments throughout the workday
Ability to maintain focus and awareness in a dynamic manufacturing environment
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
American Rheinmetall provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employee
