Experienced CNC Lathe Setup Operator / Machinist

Job Description

Job Description

Description:

Job Summary

The CNC Operator – Turning Department is responsible for setting up, operating, monitoring, and supporting CNC turning equipment used to produce precision machined components. This job description is intended to cover CNC Operator Levels 1 through 3, with responsibilities increasing based on experience, demonstrated skill, training, and business need. Operators may perform basic machine operation, in-process inspection, setup assistance, independent setup, troubleshooting, process support, and mentoring duties as appropriate to their assigned level.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

· Machine Operation and Setup:

o Operate CNC turning equipment, which may include turning centers, screw machines, and multi-axis turning equipment, in accordance with work instructions, drawings, and production requirements.

o Load and unload parts, materials, fixtures, tooling, and programs as assigned.

o Monitor machine operation to detect abnormal conditions, tool wear, dimensional variation, or machine alarms.

o Perform tool changes, offset adjustments, and basic machine adjustments within level of training and authorization.

o Assist with or independently perform machine setups, including workholding, tooling, offsets, and machine parameters, based on assigned level.

o Support first-piece verification, production start-up, and repeat production runs to ensure parts meet drawing and quality requirements.

· Precision Inspection and Quality Control:

o Inspect machined components using appropriate precision inspection tools, including micrometers, calipers, indicators, bore gauges, thread gauges, and other shop measurement equipment.

o Read and interpret work instructions, engineering drawings, specifications, and inspection requirements appropriate to the assigned level.

o Verify part dimensions, surface finish, and workmanship throughout production and document results as required.

o Identify and communicate out-of-tolerance conditions, nonconforming material, equipment issues, or process concerns.

o Make corrective adjustments or escalate issues to the appropriate lead, programmer, supervisor, or quality representative based on skill level and authorization.

· Maintenance, Safety, and Documentation:

o Perform routine machine care, cleaning, chip removal, fluid checks, and preventative maintenance activities as assigned.

o Maintain accurate production records, labor reporting, inspection documentation, and traceability records as required.

o Follow all safety rules, quality procedures, company policies, and department standards.

o Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area using established housekeeping and 5S practices.

· Support and Collaboration:

o Work with operators, leads, programmers, maintenance, engineering, and quality personnel to support safe and efficient production.

o Communicate machine status, production issues, quality concerns, and shift turnover information clearly and accurately.

o Support training, cross-training, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement activities as appropriate to assigned level.

Requirements:

Skills and Qualifications

· Experience, training, or demonstrated aptitude in CNC machining, turning operations, manufacturing, mechanical work, or related technical fields.

· Ability to safely operate CNC turning equipment and follow written and verbal work instructions.

· Ability to read and interpret drawings, specifications, travelers, inspection plans, and manufacturing documentation at a level appropriate to the position.

· Ability to use precision measuring instruments and understand basic inspection practices.

· Working knowledge of machine offsets, tooling, feeds and speeds, G and M codes, and CNC controls, with depth of knowledge increasing by level.

· Strong attention to detail, reliability, communication skills, and commitment to producing quality work.

· Ability to work independently or with supervision depending on assigned level, task complexity, and training status.

Level Guidelines

· Level 1: Entry-level or developing operator who performs basic machine operation, part loading and unloading, routine inspection, documentation, and housekeeping under supervision or with established work instructions.

· Level 2: Intermediate operator who performs routine operation and setup support, makes basic offsets and tool changes, verifies parts, troubleshoots common issues, and works with limited supervision on repeat production.

· Level 3: Advanced operator who performs complex setups, supports first-piece or first-article verification, troubleshoots machine and process issues, supports process improvements, and may assist in training or mentoring lower-level operators.

Preferred Qualifications

· Experience operating CNC turning centers, screw machines, Swiss-style machines, or multi-axis turning equipment.

· Experience machining tight-tolerance components in aerospace, defense, medical, or other precision manufacturing environments.

· Familiarity with GD&T, CNC program verification, setup documentation, lean manufacturing, and continuous improvement practices.

Additional Hiring Requirement

· Candidates may be required to complete a technical machining assessment, practical machine evaluation, blueprint reading exercise, or precision measurement assessment appropriate to the level being considered.