CNC Setup Machinist

Position Overview

We are seeking a CNC Machinist to join our precision manufacturing team. The ideal candidate will have a strong machining background, experience with CNC mills/lathes (multi-axis a plus), be able to set up, run and inspect parts to tight tolerances, and contribute to a safe, efficient production environment. You’ll work closely with engineering and quality to ensure parts meet specification, help maintain machines and tooling, and support continuous improvement initiatives.

The CNC Machinist will set up, program (or assist in programming), operate and monitor CNC machines (milling, turning, multi-axis) to produce precision parts according to engineering drawings and specifications. The role requires strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, familiarity with blueprints and CAD/CAM, and the ability to maintain quality and safety standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Review engineering drawings, work orders, setup sheets and specifications to determine the correct machining process.
• Select and install tooling, fixtures, work-holding, cutting tools, and materials for each job.
• Set up CNC machines (mills, lathes, multi-axis) including offsets, program loading, tool changes, material loading.
• Monitor production runs: ensure machines are running properly, parts meet tolerances, adjust feeds/speeds and offsets as necessary.
• Inspect finished parts using calipers, micrometers, gauges, CMMs (if applicable) to verify adherence to tolerances and specifications.
• Maintain machine cleanliness, tool management, preventative maintenance, and adhere to safety and 5S (or lean) practices.
• Document production data, setup records, machine logs; report non-conforming parts or machine issues.
• Work collaboratively with engineers, programmers, quality control, and other machinists to optimize processes and solve machining problems.

Skills & Qualifications

Required:

• High school diploma or GED (or equivalent). Technical or vocational machining training is a plus.
• Experience operating CNC machines (mills and/or lathes) in a precision machining environment.
• 2-5 years of experience.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings and schematics; familiarity with geometric dimensioning & tolerancing (GD&T) is highly desirable.
• Mechanical aptitude: ability to setup, align and adjust machines, select tools, change tooling, make offsets and corrections during runs.
• Proficiency with precision measuring instruments (calipers, micrometers, height gauges) and inspection processes.
• Good attention to detail, problem-solving skills, ability to work independently and in team environments, good communication.

Preferred:

• Familiarity with CAD/CAM software (e.g., Mastercam, Fusion 360) and simply editing G-code or conversational programming.
• Experience with 3-axis, 4-axis, 5-axis CNC machines (particularly in aerospace, medical device or high precision manufacturing).
• Experience working in an ISO 9001 or AS9100 certified facility or within lean manufacturing / 5S frameworks.

Physical & Work Environment Requirements:

• Full-time position; overtime depending on production demands.
• The role requires standing for extended periods, manual dexterity, and use of hand/travel tools.
• It may involve lifting moderate weight up to 40lbs safely (e.g., raw stock, tooling).
• Environment: machine shop production floor—noise, metal swarf/chips, coolant, machinery. Safety gear required.
• Must be a U.S. person (citizen or permanent resident) per ITAR regulations.

Company Benefits:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance (eligible after 30 working days)
• Paid time off and paid company observed holidays
• Training and advancement opportunities in a growing aerospace environment