CNC Turning Center Technician — Fanuc/Haas/Mazak

Are You the Go-To Pro for Tight-Tolerance Turning?

If blueprint details and GD&T aren’t just symbols to you—but a roadmap to precision—you’ll feel at home here. We’re seeking a CNC turning expert who can keep the spindle turning and the measurements dead-on.

Your Core Challenges

• Operate CNC lathes/turning centers (2-axis, multi-axis, and live-tool platforms).
• Read and apply blueprints, technical drawings, and full GD&T callouts.
• Load raw material and manage machining cycles from first-piece through production.
• Fine-tune offsets, tooling, speeds, and feeds for accuracy and throughput.
• Run first-article and in-process inspections; use micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, and indicators.
• Hit and hold tolerances commonly within ±0.002 inches.
• Swap inserts, change tooling/fixtures, and correct chatter, wear, or size issues.
• Keep machines clean and on a preventive maintenance schedule.
• Document production runs and quality checks.

Machines & Controls

• Turning centers: 2-axis to multi-axis, including live tooling configurations.
• Control platforms: Fanuc, Haas, Mazak.

Must-Have Skills

• Strong command of CNC turning fundamentals and process stability.
• Print reading with GD&T fluency.
• Feeds/speeds and material-cutting know-how.
• Shop math proficiency (trigonometry a plus).
• Quality-driven attention to detail.

Education & Time-in-Trade

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Technical certificate or associate degree preferred.
• 3–5+ years of CNC lathe experience (varies by employer).
• Apprenticeship or substantial OJT is common.

Physical & Shop Conditions

• Stand for long periods; lift 25–50 lbs as needed.
• Shop environment with noise, coolant, and metal chips.
• PPE required (safety glasses, steel-toe boots, etc.).

Pay Range (U.S.)

• $20–$24 per hour for experienced technicians.

Career Pathways

• CNC Programmer
• Lead Machinist / Supervisor
• Manufacturing Engineer
• Quality Inspector / CMM Programmer

Differentiate Yourself

• Hands-on with live tooling or Swiss-style lathes.
• CAM experience (Mastercam, Fusion 360).
• Multi-axis capability (4-axis / 5-axis).
• Background with Lean or Six Sigma methods.