2nd or 3rd Shift available
Now Hiring: Line Leaders to Drive High-Performance Automated Manufacturing
Are you a hands-on manufacturing leader who thrives in a fast-paced, automated environment? We are seeking experienced Line Leaders to take ownership of automated machining lines, lead high-performing teams, and drive production throughput. This is an opportunity to step into a critical leadership role where your technical expertise and ability to deliver results will directly impact operational success.
Company Overview
J.G. Kern Enterprises Inc. is a world-class manufacturing facility specializing in the production of close tolerance components for drivetrain and powertrain assemblies, as well as chassis frames. We pride ourselves on combining cutting-edge technology with exceptional customer service to deliver high-quality, durable parts at competitive prices.
Position Summary
The Line Leader is responsible for managing one or more automated machining lines, ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality production across all operations. This role combines strong technical expertise in CNC machining with hands-on leadership, with a primary focus on driving throughput, optimizing performance, and maintaining strict quality standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage one or more automated machining lines, ensuring consistent performance across all operations
- Oversee integrated manufacturing processes including CNC lathes, mills, grinding, broaching, induction heat treat, balancing, and minor assembly
- Drive production throughput, efficiency, and overall line performance, meeting or exceeding output targets
- Monitor line flow and proactively identify and resolve bottlenecks across multiple process steps
- Coordinate activities across operations to ensure smooth transitions and minimal downtime
- Ensure all parts meet engineering specifications, tolerances, and quality requirements
- Perform and oversee in-process inspection using gauges, micrometers, calipers, and other precision measurement tools
- Provide hands-on troubleshooting support for equipment and process issues
- Supervise, coach, and develop a team of 15–20 operators
- Lead continuous improvement efforts focused on cycle time reduction, scrap reduction, and OEE improvement
- Enforce compliance with all safety, quality, and operational standards
Required Qualifications
- Minimum of 5+ years of CNC machining experience in a manufacturing environment
- Strong working knowledge of Fanuc controls for CNC lathes and mills
- Deep understanding of machining tolerances and part conformance requirements
- Proficiency in precision measurement and inspection techniques
- Proven supervisory experience, with the ability to lead teams of 15–20 employees
- Demonstrated ability to drive production throughput and achieve performance targets
- Strong problem-solving skills and ability to make real-time production decisions
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with lean manufacturing principles (5S, Kaizen, waste reduction, continuous improvement)
- Working knowledge of broaching, grinding, and induction heat treating processes
- Experience in automated or multi-process machining environments
- Familiarity with Fanuc robots and automated material handling systems
Work Schedule
- Positions available on 2nd, and 3rd shifts
- Flexibility to support production needs, including overtime as required
Skills Required
- Minimum of 5+ years of CNC machining experience in a manufacturing environment
- Strong working knowledge of Fanuc controls for CNC lathes and mills
- Deep understanding of machining tolerances and part conformance requirements
- Proficiency in precision measurement and inspection techniques
- Proven supervisory experience, with the ability to lead teams of 15-20 employees
- Demonstrated ability to drive production throughput and achieve performance targets
- Strong problem-solving skills and ability to make real-time production decisions
What We Do
J.G. Kern is a world-class CNC machining facility that manufactures close tolerance components for drivetrain and powertrain assemblies, chassis frames, and other parts, from developmental prototypes to full production runs.






