CNC Lathe Machinist

Location: Milford, CT

Work Setting: 100% onsite

Shift: 1st Shift, Monday - Friday

Compensation: $32-$40/hour, based on experience and setup capability

Benefits: Medical benefits, company-matching 401(k), paid vacation, paid holidays, and paid sick days. Benefits generally begin after 30 days.

Position Summary

A well-established precision CNC manufacturing company is seeking an experienced CNC Lathe Set Up Technician to join its team in Milford, CT.

This is a hands-on setup machinist position supporting the production of precision components for aerospace, defense, medical, semiconductor, and other advanced manufacturing applications. The ideal candidate can independently set up CNC horizontal lathes, work with Fanuc controls, program and edit G-code, read blueprints, and verify that parts meet dimensional requirements.

This is not a button-pusher or basic machine operator position. We're looking for a machinist with true CNC lathe setup experience who can take ownership of jobs, make necessary programming adjustments, troubleshoot setup issues, and help produce high-quality precision components.

You'll join a smaller, team-oriented machining environment where experienced machinists can make a direct impact on quality, productivity, and shop-floor operations.

What You'll Do
• Set up and operate 2-axis and 3-axis CNC horizontal lathes
• Program CNC lathes and make G-code edits and adjustments as required
• Set up jobs, tooling, and machines for precision component production
• Work with Fanuc controls and CNC turning equipment
• Read and interpret engineering drawings and blueprints
• Use micrometers, calipers, gages, and other precision measuring instruments to verify dimensions
• Check first-piece and production dimensions to ensure parts meet specifications
• Troubleshoot setup, programming, tooling, and machining issues
• Maintain a high level of accuracy, consistency, and attention to detail
• Work collaboratively with Quality and other shop personnel to maintain production and quality standards

What You Bring
• Minimum of 3 years of CNC lathe setup experience
• Demonstrated ability to independently set up and run CNC lathes
• Experience with 2-axis and/or 3-axis CNC horizontal lathes
• Hands-on experience with Fanuc controls
• Working knowledge of G-code programming
• Ability to program, edit, and adjust CNC programs as necessary
• Strong blueprint reading skills
• Experience using precision measuring instruments and gages
• Ability to work to tight tolerances and maintain strong quality standards
• Reliable attendance, strong attention to detail, and a professional, team-oriented approach

Preferred Qualifications
• Experience with bar feeding systems
• Working knowledge of GD&T
• Aerospace, defense, medical, semiconductor, or similar precision machining experience
• Experience in a small precision CNC shop or high-mix manufacturing environment
• Familiarity with SwissTech, Doosan, Hardinge, Yaskawa, or similar CNC equipment
• Experience working within an AS9100 or ISO 9001 manufacturing environment
• Strong CNC setup troubleshooting skills

Why This Opportunity
• Competitive $32-$40/hour compensation based on skill and experience
• Optional overtime opportunities
• Stable first-shift, Monday-Friday schedule
• Join an established precision machining operation with more than 50 years in business
• Work on sophisticated components supporting aerospace, defense, medical, semiconductor, and other advanced industries
• Hands-on position where your setup and machining expertise will have a visible impact
• Smaller shop environment where skilled machinists can take meaningful ownership of their work
• Opportunity to join an organization investing in stronger manufacturing processes, systems, and long-term growth
• Medical benefits, company-matching 401(k), paid vacation, paid holidays, and paid sick days