Lead Mechanic: CNC Burn Table Operator - Steel America;

Lead Mechanic: CNC Burn Table Operator - Steel America

Join for the Lead Mechanic: CNC Burn Table Operator role at Colonna's Shipyard.

Steel America, a division of Colonna’s Shipyard, is seeking an experienced Lead Mechanic – CNC Burn Table Operator to support operations at our site in Norfolk, VA.

• Lead a small crew (2‑5) of department tradesmen under the direction of the Shop Foreman.
• Ensure all work on the vessel and in-house is completed on time, on budget, and to contract quality standards.
• Provide training to new employees covering shop equipment and procedures.
• Provide ample notice of manpower needs and changes to the Shop Foreman.
• Hold employees accountable for established goals and review progress frequently.
• Promote compliance with safety requirements, including proper use of PPE.
• Assist in determining project physical progress.
• Maintain the vessel, shops, and surrounding areas in a clean and safe condition.
• Become familiar with work‑related documents such as drawings and manuals.
• Develop and administer shift turnovers; provide daily feedback on shift performance.
• Program CNC burn tables by inputting cutting parameters and nesting designs using specialized software.
• Set up, calibrate, and operate burn table machines to cut and shape metals to prescribed dimensions.
• Load and unload materials onto the burn table, ensuring proper alignment and securing.
• Interpret work orders, engineering drawings, and blueprints to verify material specifications and cutting requirements.
• Monitor the cutting process and make real‑time adjustments to torch settings for precision cuts.
• Inspect parts during and after production for quality control, accuracy, and conformity to customer requirements.
• Perform routine preventive maintenance such as sharpening tools, lubricating machines, and replacing worn parts.
• Troubleshoot and resolve machining or assembly problems in collaboration with engineers and production personnel.
• Maintain clear and accurate records of CNC operations, program modifications, and machine maintenance schedules.
• Accurately document production data, including job tracking, times, and materials used.
• Other duties may be assigned as workload requirements dictate.

• High School diploma or equivalent and at least seven years manufacturing experience within the trade.
• Experience programming and operating CNC burn tables, including inputting cutting parameters and nesting designs using specialized software.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD.
• Working knowledge of welding codes: AWS, MIL‑STD, AISC, and ABS.
• Ability to understand and apply knowledge of speeds/feeds of tools to optimize manufacturing cycle time and improve overall efficiency.
• Proficient knowledge of and ability to use hand tools and instruments associated with the trade.
• Ability to work effectively with others.
• Self‑motivated and able to complete responsibilities with minimal direction.

• Previous supervisory responsibilities.
• Working knowledge of Omniwin, Omni Bevel, Pro Nest, and operating Messer MPCs.
• Overhead gantry crane and rigging experience.
• Strong understanding of metalworking and manufacturing techniques, with experience in 5‑Axis machining.
• Technical degree or certification in CNC programming, machining, or a related field.

• Minimal travel; 10% or less.

• Must be able to lift, carry and transport heavy equipment and boxes; minimum weight requirement 20 lbs.
• Work on and climb ladders; work in extreme temperature environments, aboard ships, in shipyards, under industrial conditions, and in confined spaces, including entering and moving through manholes.
• Perform other duties as required, including exposure to high heat, humidity, noise, and dirty conditions.
• Frequent exposure to noise from machinery and equipment.
• Operate trucks, forklifts and man‑lifts.
• Job duties include standing, walking, sitting, using hands and fingers, handling or feeling, talking and hearing; occasional reaching with hands and arms, climbing, balancing, stooping, squatting, kneeling, twisting and crawling.
• Work in extreme temperatures and conditions; at times in areas with less adequate ventilation.
• Frequent use…