Lathe CNC Machine Operator/ Screw Machine Set-Up

Inno Tech Manufacturing is seeking an experienced Lathe CNC Machine Operator/ Screw Machine Set-Up Person to join our machining team. This role is for seasoned machinists only — we are specifically looking for candidates with a minimum of 5 years of hands-on Swiss setup experience, preferably on Citizen machines.

The right candidate will be able to independently set up machines, dial in tooling, troubleshoot production issues, and consistently hold tight tolerances.

Location: San Diego, CA-92131

FLSA: Non-Exempt (Hourly)

Job Type: Full-Time

Pay Range: $32.00 – $45.00 per hour

Key Responsibilities:

Lathe CNC Machine Operator Responsibilities

• Under the direction of an experienced machinist, responsible for quality parts produced on CNC machines.
• Operates CNC Screw/Lathe machine.
• Cut a variety of materials per Job Order Instructions.
• Align and secure holding fixtures, cutting tools, attachments, accessories, and materials onto machines.
• Responsible for loading parts, operating controls, setting offsets, and simple edits.
• Detect equipment malfunctions or out of tolerance machining and adjust machine, within capabilities, controls or control media as required to ensure quality of production. Report all machine malfunctions to immediate supervisor.
• Change tools, set up holding devices and fixtures including chucks, collets, stops and establish offsets.
• Deburring and cleaning of finished parts.
• Performs preventive maintenance and makes machine adjustments as required using hand tools and precision measuring instruments.
• Expected to work in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.

Screw Machine Set-Up Responsibilities

• Set up and run Citizen Swiss-type screw machines
• Perform full machine setups including tooling, guide bushings, collets, and offsets
• Read and interpret blueprints, tolerances, and GD&T
• Conduct first-article and in-process inspections
• Troubleshoot tooling, machine, and process issues
• Maintain setup documentation and work closely with Quality and Production teams

Required Qualifications (Must-Have):

• 5 years of Swiss screw machine setup experience (required)
• Direct experience setting up Citizen Swiss machines strongly preferred
• Strong blueprint reading and GD&T skills
• Proficiency with micrometers, calipers, indicators, and gauges
• Ability to change and set cutting tools.
• Ability to identify wear of cutting tools such as inserts, drills, end mills boring bars, etc.
• Working knowledge of basic math used in a machine environment and some understanding of geometric tolerances.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Reliable, detail-oriented, and quality-focused
• Solid troubleshooting skills.
• The ability to work extended hours as required is essential.
• A legal resident of the U.S.

Preferred Experience:

• Experience with Citizen and Index Swiss machines
• Multi-bar feeder setups
• Live tooling and sub-spindle operations
• Aerospace, medical, or tight-tolerance production environments
• CNC Lathe/Screw Machining: 2 years (Preferred)

Benefits:

• 401(k) 5% Match
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Profit sharing
• Vision insurance

Environment:

• Manufacturing shop environment with multiple CNC screw and lathe machines operating simultaneously
• Exposure to loud noise levels; hearing protection required
• Exposure to hot temperatures generated by machinery and cutting processes
• Handling small precision components
• Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, steel-toe shoes, and hearing protection
• Fast-paced production environment with productivity and quality expectations

Application Question(s):

• Do you have 5 years of screw machine set-up experience?

Shift availability:

• Day Shift (Required) Monday to Friday
• Overtime
• Weekends as needed

Work Location: In person

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance