Cnc Lathe Machinist

2nd Shift CNC Lathe Machinist

This role is for a skilled CNC Lathe Machinist on 2nd shift who will set up, operate, and maintain twin spindle twin turret CNC lathes to produce high-quality fire fighting equipment components such as handline nozzles, apparatus valves and fittings, industrial valves, adapters, caps, and plugs. You will balance hands-on machine setup with careful monitoring, inspection, and organization to ensure parts meet precise specifications and tight tolerances.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC lathe machining centers, including performing regular change-outs and offsets to support production runs.
• Spend approximately 30% of the shift performing machine setups and change-outs and 70% monitoring machines, inspecting completed parts, and cleaning and organizing work areas.
• Complete 1 to 3 setups per shift, with production runs ranging from about 20 to 200 parts, while maintaining consistent quality and efficiency.
• Run two CNC lathe machines simultaneously, managing workflow and cycle times to keep production on schedule.
• Operate Okuma-Howa lathes, including bar feeder lathes, single spindle and twin turret configurations, indexing lathes, and custom-thread lathes, as required.
• Use micrometers, calipers, gauges, and other precision measuring tools to verify that parts meet specified tolerances and customer requirements.
• Mount, install, align, and secure tools, attachments, and fixtures on machines using appropriate hand tools and precision instruments.
• Read, understand, and edit programs for bar feeder lathes, making necessary adjustments to ensure accurate and efficient machining.
• Perform preventive maintenance on CNC lathes according to the established work schedule to support reliable machine performance.
• Hold and maintain tight tolerances of +/- 0.001 inch on machined parts throughout the production process.
• Interpret complex blueprints, including those with a high number of dimensions, to confirm that parts are produced to print.
• Lift and move materials, tooling, and parts weighing up to 50 pounds in a safe and controlled manner.
• Contribute to a safe, organized, and clean work environment by following shop procedures and housekeeping standards.

Essential Skills

• 35+ years of experience in setup, change-outs, offsets, and operation of CNC lathe machinery, with Okuma equipment strongly preferred.
• Proven ability to proficiently read and interpret blueprints, including prints with up to 100 dimensions that must be checked.
• Strong proficiency in using precision measurement tools, including micrometers, calipers, and gauges, to verify part accuracy.
• Demonstrated experience working with tight tolerances up to +/- 0.001 inch and maintaining these tolerances consistently.
• Solid understanding of G and M codes and their application in CNC lathe programming and operation.
• Ability to safely lift and handle items weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Capability to work effectively on 2nd shift and manage multiple machines simultaneously in a production environment.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Ability to touch off adjustments on tools and setups, using mechanical aptitude and critical thinking to achieve correct dimensions.
• Experience adjusting shims, screws, and other machine components to bring parts into specification according to the print.
• Experience working with Fanuc-driven CNC Okuma lathes.
• Experience operating single spindle twin turret CNC lathes.
• Job shop experience, indicating familiarity with frequent change-outs and varied part runs.
• Comfort working in an environment with older equipment that is being gradually upgraded.

Why Work Here?

Employees benefit from a comprehensive package that supports both financial security and work-life balance, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, eligibility for benefits starting the first of the month following hire, and a 401(k) plan with a 50% match up to 6% after 90 days. Paid time off begins after 90 days and is prorated for the first year, with two weeks of PTO provided starting January 1 in subsequent years. Team members receive a boot allowance of $150 per year, enjoy nine paid holidays including one floating holiday, and can earn raises based on performance. The shop operates with union representation available but not mandatory, offering flexibility and choice. The business is stable and resilient, with steady work even when certain market segments slow down, and overtime opportunities are available with a flexible approach to scheduling.

Work Environment

The role is based in a machining facility with an attached foundry, resulting in an oily and dirty industrial environment typical of heavy manufacturing. Much of the equipment is older but is being progressively upgraded, and you will work primarily with Okuma-Howa CNC lathes and related tooling and measurement equipment. This is a 2nd shift position, Monday through Friday from 2:55 p.m. to 10:55 p.m., with Saturday hours from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m as needed for overtime. The environment is production-focused, where running two machines simultaneously is standard practice, and stools are available for use while monitoring machine cycles. Dress is appropriate for a manufacturing shop with exposure to oil, dirt, and foundry conditions, and sturdy work boots are supported through an annual boot allowance.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Elkhart, IN.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $25.96 - $28.46/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Elkhart,IN.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 7, 2026.