Senior CNC Programmer / Setup Machinist (Lathes & Mills)

Role: Senior CNC Programmer / Setup Machinist (Lathes & Mills)

Location: Santa, CA

Company: AGA Precision Systems

Hourly Compensation: $40-$45/hr

Employment Type: Full-Time

FLSA Classification: Non-Exempt / Hourly

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced Senior CNC Programmer / Setup Machinist to support operations across CNC lathes and mills in a precision manufacturing environment. This position is responsible for programming, machine setup, troubleshooting, and supporting production activities while maintaining quality and safety standards.

The ideal candidate will possess strong technical machining experience, the ability to work independently with minimal supervision, and the capability to support a fast-paced, high-mix manufacturing operation.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The essential functions include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Program CNC lathes and milling machines using Mastercam, GibbsCAM, or equivalent CAM software
• Perform complete machine setups using engineering drawings, blueprints, models, and work instructions
• Independently program, setup, and prove out new and existing jobs
• Operate CNC equipment safely and efficiently in accordance with company procedures
• Optimize machining processes including tooling selection, feeds/speeds, workholding, and cycle times
• Run first article inspections and support production runs
• Read and interpret blueprints, GD&T callouts, and process documentation
• Troubleshoot machining, tooling, setup, and programming issues
• Utilize precision measuring instruments including calipers, micrometers, bore gauges, indicators, and related inspection equipment
• Complete required production, setup, and quality documentation accurately and timely
• Collaborate with quality, engineering, and operations personnel to support production requirements and delivery schedules
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment
• Follow all company safety policies, quality standards, and operational procedures
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and process optimization efforts
• Train and support less experienced machinists and setup personnel as needed
• Perform other duties as assigned based on business needs

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 7 years of CNC machining experience involving both lathes and mills
• Minimum 5 years of CNC programming and setup experience
• Ability to independently setup and program parts from engineering prints with minimal supervision
• Strong understanding of GD&T and tight-tolerance machining
• Experience machining precision components in a manufacturing environment
• Ability to use standard inspection and measuring equipment accurately
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
• Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors, coworkers, and support departments
• Ability to prioritize tasks and manage workflow in a production environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in AS9100 or ISO 9001 manufacturing environments
• Experience with multi-axis machining including live tooling, Y-axis, 4-axis, or 5-axis equipment
• Experience machining aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, Inconel, or other exotic materials
• Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems such as Shopkeeper or Epicor
• Aerospace or defense manufacturing experience

Physical Requirements

The physical requirements described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this position:

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods during scheduled shifts
• Ability to frequently use hands and arms for handling tools, parts, and equipment
• Ability to occasionally lift and/or move materials up to 50 pounds with or without assistance
• Ability to bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, and reach as required
• Ability to visually inspect machined parts and read technical documentation
• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to machine noise, coolants, oils, and metal particles while using required personal protective equipment (PPE)

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

Compensation and Benefits

• Hourly pay range: $40.00 – $45.00 per hour, depending on qualifications, skills, experience, and business needs
• Overtime compensation provided in accordance with applicable California and federal wage and hour laws
• Medical, dental, vision, paid time off, and other company-sponsored benefits available to eligible employees
• Opportunities for overtime and career growth

Work Authorization Requirement

Due to ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) requirements, applicants must be authorized to access controlled technical information in compliance with applicable federal regulations.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

AGA is an equal opportunity employer and makes employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, age, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, military or veteran status, protected leave status, reproductive health decision-making, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.