Eleven Recruiting is searching for a Lathe Operator to join one of our largest aerospace manufacturing clients sitting onsite in Freeland, Michigan. The Lathe Operator will support complex turning operations for precision ball screw manufacturing. This role requires expertise in CNC programming, process planning, and precision machining of high-tolerance components. The ideal candidate will understand how outside processing operations affect part geometry and will develop machining strategies accordingly.
Responsibilities:
Program, set up, and operate CNC lathes and turning centers for precision component manufacturing.
Develop complete machining processes from print review through final inspection.
Interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, and customer specifications.
Plan machining operations to compensate for dimensional changes caused by heat treating, coating, grinding, and other outside processing.
Establish work holding methods and tooling strategies for complex precision parts.
Create and optimize CNC programs to maximize efficiency and repeatability.
Perform in-process inspections and final dimensional verification.
Troubleshoot machining, tooling, and quality issues.
Work closely with engineering and quality teams on new product introduction and process improvement.
Maintain setup documentation, tooling records, and process standards.
Mentor junior machinists and assist with technical training.
Support lean manufacturing and continuous improvement efforts.
Qualifications:
Strong understanding of CNC programming and process development.