CNC Lathe Setup Operator (1st Shift)

CNC Lathe Setup Operator (1st Shift)

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced CNC Lathe Setup Operator to support our precision turning operations. This individual will be responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining CNC lathes to produce high-quality components in accordance with engineering drawings, work instructions, and established machining processes.

This is a hands-on production position for someone who can independently perform machine setups, make necessary tooling and offset adjustments, troubleshoot machining issues, and consistently produce quality parts. The successful candidate will work closely with our Turning & Milling Lead Programmer, Quality, and other production personnel to keep machines running safely and efficiently.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC lathes using established programs, setup sheets, and process documentation.

• Install and set tooling, workholding, jaws, fixtures, and material as required for each job.

• Perform first-piece setups and make tooling, wear, and offset adjustments to bring parts into specification.

• Read and interpret engineering drawings, setup documentation, and inspection requirements.

• Inspect parts using micrometers, calipers, indicators, gauges, and other standard inspection equipment.

• Work closely with Quality to ensure compliance with First Piece Approvals and in-process inspection requirements.

• Monitor machining operations and make adjustments to maintain quality, tool life, and production efficiency.

• Troubleshoot tooling, workholding, dimensional, and machining issues and communicate programming needs to the Turning & Milling Lead Programmer.

• Perform routine tool changes, insert changes, and basic machine maintenance as required.

• Maintain accurate production, inspection, and setup records.

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area while supporting continuous improvement efforts.

Qualifications

10+ years of CNC lathe setup and operating experience required.

• Experience independently setting up CNC lathes from setup sheets and established programs.

• Experience with Okuma and/or DMG Mori CNC lathes preferred.

• Ability to independently set up, troubleshoot, adjust, and run precision machined parts.

• Strong understanding of tooling, work holding, feeds and speeds, offsets, and basic machining principles.

• Ability to use standard precision measuring equipment and perform in-process inspection.

• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, tolerances, and GD&T.

What Success Looks Like

• Completes accurate, repeatable CNC lathe setups with minimal supervision.

• Produces conforming parts while maintaining efficient cycle times and machine utilization.

• Identifies and corrects tooling, offset, and process issues before they create scrap or downtime.

• Maintains clear setup documentation and communicates issues effectively with Programming, Quality, and Production.

• Contributes to a safe, organized, quality-focused turning department.

Restrictions:

• This position will require work on projects protected under ITAR laws. By law, applicants must be a U.S. person (US citizen, green card holder), and U.S. persons only will be considered for this position.

No sponsorship visa (H1-B, etc) candidates at this time, sorry.


Qualified candidates must submit their resume in Microsoft Word format along with at least three professional references to:


COYOTE TECHNICAL & EXECUTIVE SOURCING
Phil Montoya
Director of Sourcing

CNC Lathe Machinist – Fort Wayne, IN

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