Become a Machinist Leader at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard

Are you a master of the machine shop with a natural ability to lead? The Department of the Navy is looking for a dedicated Machinist Leader to join the Mechanical Shop at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in San Diego. This is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to contribute directly to the operational readiness of the U.S. fleet while working with some of the most advanced machinery in the industry.

Job Responsibilities

In the role of Machinist Leader, you will serve as the technical lead for your team. Key duties include:

Operating and maintaining a variety of conventional and CNC machinery.
Interpreting complex blueprints and technical specifications.
Computing dimensions using advanced shop mathematics.
Overseeing daily shop operations, including work assignments and safety enforcement.

Comparison: Role Responsibilities

Function	Machinist	Machinist Leader
Scope	Individual task execution	Team-based task management
Technical Depth	High	High (Expert Level)
Supervision	None	Team oversight & guidance
Planning	Minimal	Full project/workflow layout

Requirements

To qualify, you must possess a high level of technical competency. You will be evaluated on your ability to lead others, your proficiency with CNC tools, and your capacity to safely execute complex machining operations. All candidates must submit a comprehensive, 2-page resume to be considered.

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive hourly wage range of $36.85 to $43.01. Beyond the hourly pay, the Department of the Navy provides a robust federal benefits package designed to support you and your family.

Application Tips

Use the Resume Builder: This ensures you capture all the required data points like hours per week and pay scales.
Highlight Leadership: Explicitly describe instances where you directed work or trained others.
Stay Within Limits: Your resume is strictly limited to 2 pages; focus on quality over quantity.

If you have the precision, the experience, and the drive to lead, the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard wants to hear from you. Take the next step in your career and contribute to the essential mission of the United States Navy.

Why This Machinist Leader Job Matters

Lead technical innovation at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard and shape the future of naval engineering excellence as a Machinist Leader.

Machinist Leader Job Overview

The Department of the Navy is seeking a skilled and proactive Machinist Leader to join the Mechanical Shop (Code 931) at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in San Diego, California. In this critical leadership role, you will oversee complex machining operations, guide your team through intricate repair and manufacturing tasks, and ensure that our production standards remain second to none. This position is perfect for a veteran machinist who is ready to step into a supervisory capacity, mentoring junior staff while maintaining high-quality outputs on vital naval infrastructure.

Requirements for Machinist Leader

Ability to lead or supervise others by assigning tasks and setting the pace.
Expertise in operating conventional and CNC machine tools such as lathes, boring mills, and milling machines.
Proven proficiency in planning and laying out work from complex blueprints and technical drawings.
Strong understanding of shop mathematics and handbook formulas for dimension verification.
Capability to machine a variety of materials including steel, aluminum, titanium, and specialized alloys.
Commitment to workplace safety, equipment maintenance, and rigorous quality control.

Preferred Qualifications for Machinist Leader

Prior experience in a supervisory or team lead capacity within a machine shop environment.
Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot technical processes and resolve operational discrepancies.
Experience with formal production scheduling and resource management.
Strong communication skills for providing instructions and guidance on federal policies and directives.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive hourly compensation.
✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
✓Meaningful work supporting the Department of the Navy mission.
✓Access to a comprehensive federal benefits package.
✓Potential for relocation assistance depending on funding and policy.

💡 How to Apply Machinist Leader Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Machinist Leader Job

Create or update your USAJOBS profile.
Prepare a detailed resume (maximum 2 pages) documenting your machining experience and leadership history.
Complete the required online assessment questionnaire.
Gather and upload all necessary supporting documents, such as transcripts, DD-214s, or professional certifications.
Submit your application through the official portal before the closing date of November 12, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all mandatory employment details are included.
Be specific about your accomplishments; quantify your leadership impact whenever possible.
Proofread your resume for clarity and ensure it is under the 2-page limit.
Check your application status frequently using the online tracking feature.
Verify that your uploaded documents (transcripts/DD-214) are legible and complete.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary responsibility of a Machinist Leader?

The Machinist Leader is responsible for both hands-on precision machining and supervising a team. You will set the pace for work, interpret blueprints, ensure safety, and guide workers through complex machining tasks.

Is a specific length of experience required?

While no fixed duration of experience is mandated, you must demonstrate the quality and level of knowledge required to perform the duties of the position through your past training and job history.

Can I submit my application via email?

No. All applications must be submitted through the official online portal. Emails or hard-copy submissions will not be accepted and will be destroyed.

What is the security clearance level?

This position requires a Secret security clearance.

When is the application deadline?

The window closes on November 12, 2026.

Job from United States Fleet Forces Command

The Department of the Navy is committed to maintaining the highest standards of engineering and repair. As a civilian employee, you play a vital role in our nation's defense, working alongside military personnel to safeguard our freedoms. We prioritize professional growth, offering a path that values purpose and technical precision.