CNC Machinist - Quick Mill Operator

Position SummaryThe Quickmill Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, troubleshooting, and optimizing a Quickmill CNC machining center used to manufacture high-precision components from high-value materials. This position verifies program accuracy, identifies machining and programming issues, and partners with the CAD Department to ensure first-time quality. The Quickmill Operator serves as the machining expert on the shop floor by protecting valuable customer materials, maintaining exceptional quality standards, promoting a strong safety culture, and supporting the success of the production team.

Primary Responsibilities

Machine Operation & Technical Expertise

Set up, operate, and optimize the Quickmill CNC machining center to produce precision components that meet customer specifications.Verify machine setup, tooling, workholding, fixturing, and CNC programs prior to production and troubleshoot machining or programming issues in partnership with the CAD Department.Monitor machining operations, adjust machine offsets, and recommend improvements that enhance quality, efficiency, and tooling performance.Perform routine machine inspections, preventive maintenance, and maintain equipment in safe working condition.

Quality & Material Stewardship

Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, GD&T requirements, and customer specifications.Perform first-piece, in-process, and final inspections using precision measuring equipment.Machine high-value materials with exceptional attention to detail while minimizing scrap, protecting customer assets, and ensuring first-pass quality.Accurately complete required production and quality documentation and immediately communicate quality concerns.

Safety & Team Leadership

Lead by example by promoting safe work practices and ensuring the safe operation of machining and material handling equipment.Stop work and communicate concerns whenever safety, quality, or customer materials are at risk.Serve as a technical resource by mentoring teammates and collaborating with CAD, Quality, and Operations to improve machining processes.Support department goals related to safety, quality, productivity, continuous improvement, and on-time delivery.Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Technical machining certification, apprenticeship, or equivalent experience preferred.Five or more years of advanced CNC machining experience, preferably operating large-format machining centers.Experience operating Quickmill or similar bridge/gantry CNC machines preferred.Experience machining high-value, tight-tolerance components for aerospace or similar industries preferred.Strong understanding of CNC machining principles, tooling, machine offsets, cutter compensation, feeds, speeds, and workholding techniques.Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot machining processes and collaborate with the CAD Department to resolve programming and manufacturing challenges.Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, GD&T, and customer specifications.Proficient with precision measuring equipment including micrometers, calipers, indicators, height gauges, and bore gauges.Strong mechanical aptitude, analytical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills.Experience operating overhead cranes and forklifts preferred.

Success in this role requires sound judgment, technical expertise, exceptional attention to detail, and a commitment to leading by example in safety, quality, and continuous improvement while consistently delivering first-pass quality.