CNC Lathe Machinist

Job Description

Job Description

Machinist Level II — Aerospace Lathe Machines

Client: Confidential Aerospace / Precision Manufacturing Company
Location: Woodinville, WA
Workplace Type: On-Site
Department: Operations / CNC Machining
Position Type: Full-Time
Pay Range: $26.50–$37.00/hour, depending on experience
Experience Preferred: 2–3 years of machining experience
Reports To: Production Manager
Compliance Note: This role may require access to ITAR/EAR-controlled production processes or information

Position Summary

A confidential aerospace / precision manufacturing client in Woodinville, WA is seeking a Machinist Level II with experience operating aerospace lathe machines and related machining equipment. This role is responsible for setting up and operating various machine tools, including lathes, gundrilling machines, ball honing equipment, manual lathes, and precision grinders to produce metal parts, mechanisms, tools, and machine components to exact tolerances and dimensions.

The Machinist Level II will interpret blueprints, sketches, and engineering specifications; use machinist hand tools and precision measuring instruments; perform standard shop calculations; lay out stock for machining; and verify quality throughout the machining process.

The ideal candidate will have hands-on machining experience, blueprint reading skills, basic shop math, manual dexterity, and the ability to work safely and accurately in an aerospace manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up and operate machine tools such as lathes, gundrilling machines, ball honing equipment, manual lathes, and precision grinders.
• Machine metal parts, mechanisms, tools, or machine components to exact tolerances and dimensions.
• Operate CNC-type machines and monitor machining processes, setups, and change-outs.
• Interpret blueprints, sketches, engineering specifications, and work instructions.
• Use machinist hand tools and precision measuring instruments to verify part dimensions and quality.
• Perform standard shop computations related to dimensions, tooling, feeds, and speeds.
• Measure, mark, and scribe dimensions and reference points to lay out stock for machining.
• Fit and assemble precision parts into mechanical equipment as needed.
• Operate a mechanical hoist to move items to and from machines.
• Maintain spindle turning at maximum efficiency whenever possible.
• Ensure parts and tools are loaded correctly.
• Maintain consistent quality throughout each assignment.
• Change and adjust cutters under supervision as instructed.
• Monitor and verify quality according to statistical process control or other control procedures when required.
• Observe and implement Lean Manufacturing methods in all job assignments.
• Learn and follow company policies and procedures, including applicable Business Quality Management System standards related to the work center.
• Maintain a clean, orderly, and safe work area.
• Communicate professionally and work cooperatively with team members, leads, supervisors, and support departments.
• Help or train others when required.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• 2–3 years of machining experience preferred.
• Knowledge of general machining processes using a variety of machine tools.
• Understanding of CNC-type machines and related processes, including setups, monitoring, and change-outs.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, sketches, engineering specifications, and work instructions.
• Basic math skills and ability to perform shop calculations related to dimensions, tooling, feeds, and speeds.
• Ability to use machinist hand tools and precision measuring instruments.
• Good manual dexterity.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Ability to maintain a clean and orderly work area.
• Ability to professionally communicate and work cooperatively with others.
• Basic English language skills.
• Ability to read, follow, and interpret work instructions.
• Willingness to learn and help train others when required.
• Ability to follow safety, quality, and production procedures.

Preferred Qualifications

• 2-year machining certificate preferred.
• Aerospace machining experience.
• Lathe machine experience.
• CNC lathe or manual lathe experience.
• Experience with gundrilling, ball honing, or precision grinding.
• Experience with tight-tolerance machining.
• Experience operating mechanical hoists.
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing practices.
• Experience working under BQMS, AS9100, or similar aerospace quality standards.
• Experience with ITAR/EAR-controlled work environments.

Technical Skills & Equipment

Candidates may work with or be expected to understand:

• CNC lathes.
• Manual lathes.
• Gundrilling machines.
• Ball honing equipment.
• Precision grinders.
• Mechanical hoists.
• Machinist hand tools.
• Precision measuring instruments.
• Blueprint reading.
• Engineering specifications.
• Feeds and speeds.
• Tooling changes.
• Cutter adjustments.
• Stock layout.
• Tight-tolerance machining.
• Lean Manufacturing practices.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, reach, and perform repetitive machining tasks throughout the shift.
• Ability to use hands and fingers to handle parts, tools, fixtures, cutters, machine controls, and measuring instruments.
• Ability to lift, move, push, pull, and position parts, tools, fixtures, and materials as required.
• Ability to operate a mechanical hoist to move items to and from machines.
• Ability to work around CNC machines, manual machines, cutting tools, metal chips, coolant, grinders, production equipment, and aerospace parts.
• Ability to wear required PPE and follow all safety procedures.
• Additional physical requirements may apply based on department and machine assignment.

ITAR / Export Control Requirement

This position may require access to information, materials, or production processes subject to U.S. export control laws and regulations, including ITAR and EAR. Candidates may need to qualify as a U.S. Person or otherwise be eligible to obtain required export authorization under applicable regulations.