Senior Glass CNC Machinist

Position Summary

The Senior Glass CNC Machinist is responsible for programming, setting up, operating, troubleshooting, and optimizing CNC equipment used in the precision machining of glass and optical components. This role serves as a technical resource within the department by mentoring machinists, improving manufacturing processes, creating work instructions, and ensuring products meet stringent optical quality and dimensional requirements.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC equipment used to machine optical glass components.
• Edit and optimize CNC programs to improve cycle times, quality, and efficiency.
• Interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, work orders, and process documentation.
• Perform machine setups, tooling changes, offsets, and first-piece inspections.
• Manufacture components to tight dimensional and cosmetic tolerances.
• Troubleshoot machining issues and recommend corrective actions.
• Develop and improve machining processes for new and existing products.
• Create and maintain work instructions, setup sheets, and machining documentation.
• Work closely with Engineering to support new product introductions and process development.
• Perform in-process inspections using precision measuring equipment.
• Monitor machine performance and perform preventative maintenance activities.
• Train and mentor CNC machinists and operators on best practices.
• Support Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Maintain accurate production records and quality documentation.
• Collaborate with Quality, Planning, and Manufacturing teams to meet production schedules.
• Ensure compliance with ISO quality standards and all safety requirements.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Technical degree or CNC machining certification preferred.
• Minimum of 7 years of CNC machining experience, preferably machining optical glass or brittle materials.
• Experience with multi-axis CNC equipment preferred.
• Experience in precision manufacturing or optics industry strongly preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and GD&T.
• Strong computer skills and familiarity with CNC programming software.
• Advanced knowledge of CNC machining principles.
• Experience machining optical glass, fused silica, sapphire, ceramics, or similar materials.
• Strong understanding of feeds, speeds, tooling, and grinding parameters.
• Ability to optimize machining processes and reduce scrap.
• Knowledge of precision inspection equipment including micrometers, indicators, comparators, and optical measurement systems.
• Excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Strong leadership and mentoring abilities.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining exceptional quality standards.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally.
• Frequent use of hands and precision tools.
• Ability to distinguish fine visual details.
• Ability to safely operate manufacturing equipment and wear required PPE.