Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced CNC Lathe Setup Machinist to join our manufacturing team on second shift. This role is responsible for setting up, operating, and troubleshooting CNC lathes to produce high-precision components while maintaining strict quality standards and maximizing production efficiency. The ideal candidate has experience performing machine setups, reading complex blueprints, machining to tight tolerances, and conducting in-process inspections using precision measuring equipment.

Candidates with MAZAK machine controls, Mazatrol programming, and Y-Axis machining experience are highly preferred. Experience in aerospace or other high-precision manufacturing environments is a strong advantage.

Schedule: Monday-Friday, 1:45 PM 11:15 PM
Pay: $30.00-$35.00/hour (based on experience) + $2.00/hour shift differential

Key Responsibilities

CNC Setup & Machining

• Perform complete setup and operation of CNC lathes for production machining.
• Install and align tooling, fixtures, and workholding devices.
• Set tool and work offsets to ensure accurate part production.
• Perform first-piece inspections and make machine adjustments as needed.
• Operate multiple production machines while maintaining productivity and quality standards.
• Adjust feeds, speeds, and depth of cut to optimize machining performance.
• Perform machining operations including turning, drilling, boring, reaming, deburring, and finishing precision components.
• Monitor machine performance and identify tooling or equipment issues before they impact production.

Blueprint Interpretation

• Read and interpret engineering blueprints, technical drawings, route sheets, and work instructions.
• Understand dimensions, tolerances, and manufacturing specifications to ensure parts meet customer requirements.
• Follow established manufacturing methods and production processes.

Quality Inspection

• Perform in-process and final inspections on precision machined parts.
• Verify product quality using precision measuring equipment including:
  • Calipers
  • Micrometers
  • Bore Gauges
  • Height Gauges
  • Surface Plates
  • Optical Comparators
  • Microscopes
  • Additional inspection equipment as required
• Inspect parts for dimensional accuracy, surface finish, burrs, and cosmetic defects.
• Record inspection results and maintain Statistical Process Control (SPC) documentation.

Continuous Improvement

• Support Lean Manufacturing initiatives including 5S, waste reduction, and continuous improvement activities.
• Identify opportunities to improve productivity, quality, and efficiency.
• Participate in team problem-solving and process improvement efforts.

Equipment Maintenance & Safety

• Perform routine machine cleaning and preventive maintenance.
• Monitor tooling condition and replace worn or damaged tooling.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Follow all company safety policies and standard operating procedures.

Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Minimum 3 years of CNC machining experience.
• Experience performing CNC Lathe setups independently.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering blueprints and manufacturing documentation.
• Experience machining precision components to tight tolerances.
• Proficient using precision measuring instruments.
• Strong understanding of machine shop mathematics, including basic trigonometry.
• Ability to troubleshoot machining issues and make machine adjustments.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Comfortable working independently with limited supervision.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with MAZAK CNC controls.
• Experience using Mazatrol programming.
• Y-Axis machining experience.
• Aerospace, defense, medical device, or other high-precision manufacturing experience.
• Knowledge of G-Code editing.
• Familiarity with GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing).
• Experience with AS9100, AS9102 First Article Inspection (FAI), or other regulated manufacturing environments.
• Experience with Statistical Process Control (SPC).
• Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement experience.

Technical Skills

• CNC Lathe Setup & Operation
• Precision Machining
• Blueprint Reading
• GD&T Interpretation
• Tool & Work Offsets
• G-Code Editing
• Tooling Selection & Adjustment
• Tight Tolerance Machining
• Machine Troubleshooting
• Quality Inspection
• SPC Documentation
• Lean Manufacturing
• Machine Shop Mathematics

Materials Experience Preferred

Experience machining one or more of the following materials:

• Titanium
• Inconel
• Stainless Steel
• Aluminum
• Other aerospace or high-performance alloys