CNC Machinist - 2nd Shift (Lathe)

At a Glance Company: Thorlabs Location: Newton, NJ (on-site) Job Type: Full-Time Pay Range: $26–$36 per hour (based on experience) Shift: 2nd Shift | Monday–Friday | 3:45 PM–12:15 AM Shift Differential: Yes plus sign on bonus Overtime: As needed Experience Level: Mid-Level | 3–5+ years CNC machining experience Work Authorization: Must be authorized to work in the United States --- Why This Role Exists As Thorlabs continues expanding its precision manufacturing capabilities, the company is growing its CNC team to support production demands for components used in photonics technologies and scientific innovation. This role plays an important part in producing precision-machined components that support researchers, engineers, and emerging technologies worldwide. The 2nd Shift CNC Lathe Machinist position helps maintain production flow while supporting high-quality output and on-time delivery. --- The Work You'll Be Doing In this role, you will: Set up and operate CNC turning and lathe equipment Load, run, edit, and troubleshoot CNC programs as needed Machine precision components, fixtures, and tooling to tight tolerances Read and interpret blueprints, GD&T, and inch/metric drawings Set tooling, offsets, and workholding for production runs Inspect parts using precision measurement tools Troubleshoot dimensional or machining issues and make process adjustments Perform first-article and in-process inspections Support production priorities and on-time delivery requirements Perform routine machine maintenance and maintain an organized workspace --- Machines, Controls & Software You'll work with equipment and systems such as: Machines: CNC lathes CNC turning equipment Precision production machinery Controls: Haas Fanuc Software / Programming: Virtual Gibbs G-code / M-code editing DNC systems Inspection Equipment: Calipers Micrometers Precision measurement tools First-article inspection equipment --- Materials You'll Work With Machinists may work with: Aluminum Stainless steel Precision metals Specialty materials requiring tight tolerances and complex geometries --- What We're Looking For Required: 3+ years of CNC machining experience Experience setting up and operating CNC lathes or turning equipment Ability to read blueprints and understand GD&T Strong understanding of tooling, offsets, and machine setup Experience inspecting precision-machined parts Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities Reliable, detail-oriented, and safety-minded Preferred (Not Required): CNC certification or trade school education Experience with Haas and Fanuc controls Virtual Gibbs experience Manual G-code/M-code editing DNC system familiarity Prototype machining experience Lean manufacturing experience Setup reduction / SMED exposure --- Why Machinists Like Working Here Machinists choose Thorlabs because: Work on products that support scientific discovery and advanced technology Stable company with over 35 years of growth and innovation Shift differential offered for 2nd shift employees Collaborative culture built around Respect, Trust, Innovation, Accountability, and Empathy Modern manufacturing environment Opportunities for growth and continued skill development Team atmosphere where ideas and contributions matter --- Pay, Benefits & Schedule Pay Range: $26–$36/hour DOE Shift Differential: Additional premium available for 2nd shift Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision insurance Company-paid life insurance 401(k) Generous PTO package Tuition reimbursement Career development opportunities Schedule: Monday–Friday 3:45 PM–12:15 AM Overtime: As needed --- #J-18808-Ljbffr