CNC Lathe Machinist I-III (Weekend Shift, 5:00am-5:00pm)

Job Description

Job Description

About RTCA:

RTCA is a precision aerospace and defense manufacturing group built on decades of hands-on machining expertise, with roots spanning more than 50 years. We support mission-critical commercial and government aerospace programs across North America through four U.S. Centers of Excellence operating as an integrated platform with 150+ CNC machines and a team of 250+ professionals.

Unlike large organizations where roles can be narrow, RTCA offers hands-on ownership and real visibility – you understand how your work supports the team, the operation, and the end customer. Our flat structure allows employees to take initiative, grow their skills, and have their contributions recognized, while still providing the stability, advanced technology, and meaningful work of an established aerospace manufacturer.

At RTCA, we believe in teamwork, excellence, and delivering with pride. One Team! One Mission!

How You’ll Make an Impact:

As a Machinist at RTCA, you will play a key role in producing precision aerospace and defense components by performing machine setups, selecting tooling, loading programs, and ensuring parts meet engineering and quality specifications. Through accurate setups, process optimization, troubleshooting, and collaboration with Quality and Engineering teams, you will help drive operational efficiency, product quality, and continuous improvement across manufacturing operations.

What you’ll be doing as a Machinist I-III:

• Working a full-time, onsite position at our Fife, WA location. Weekend Shift, F-Su - 5:00am-5:00pm
• Operate and setup multiple machines
• Follow all company safety, quality, and aerospace manufacturing procedures and standards.
• Read and interpret blueprints, setup sheets, travelers, engineering drawings, and specifications.
• Use precision measuring instruments to verify part conformance and maintain accurate quality documentation.
• Collaborate with Quality, Engineering, and Operations teams to support production goals and continuous improvement efforts.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Machinist I

• Perform machine setups, including tooling selection, fixture loading, and program loading.
• Conduct first article inspections and ensure parts meet engineering specifications.
• Make basic machine adjustments and offsets to maintain quality and efficiency.
• Monitor machine performance and identify basic machining or tooling issues.
• Support production by maintaining consistent setup accuracy and machining quality.

Machinist II

• Perform complex machine setups and optimize machining processes for efficiency and quality.
• Troubleshoot machining, tooling, and production issues to minimize downtime and scrap.
• Adjust feeds, speeds, tooling, and offsets to improve machining performance.
• Operate and support multi-axis machining equipment, including 4-axis and 5-axis machines.
• Assist in training and mentoring less experienced machinists and operators.

Machinist III

• Lead highly complex setups and advanced machining operations across multiple machine platforms.
• Develop and optimize machining strategies to improve throughput, quality, and operational efficiency.
• Troubleshoot advanced machining challenges and support root cause investigations.
• Collaborate with Engineering on tooling improvements, fixture development, and new product introductions.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship within the machining team.

Required Qualifications (Education, skills and experience):

• Experience operating and/or setting up CNC or manual machining equipment in a manufacturing environment.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and GD&T requirements.
• Experience using precision measuring instruments including micrometers, calipers, indicators, and height gages.
• Strong understanding of machining fundamentals, tooling, feeds, speeds, and offsets.
• Mechanical aptitude with strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to troubleshoot basic machining and production issues.
• Strong math, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Commitment to workplace safety and maintaining a clean work environment.

Preferred Qualifications (Education, skills and experience):

• Aerospace or defense manufacturing experience.
• Experience with multi-axis machining equipment, including 4-axis and 5-axis machines.
• Familiarity with Fanuc, Haas, Mazak, Siemens, or similar CNC controls.
• Experience with CAM software such as Mastercam, Fusion 360, or ESPRIT.
• Knowledge of AS9100 quality standards and in-process inspection techniques.
• Experience with lean manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Basic CNC programming or G-code editing experience.
• Experience troubleshooting tooling, machining, or process-related issues.
• Experience mentoring or training operators or machinists.
• Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems and production tracking tools.

Compensation and Benefits:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• Choice of medical plan options, including a no-cost employee-only coverage plan
• HSA-eligible health plan with employer contributions
• Basic and supplemental life insurance
• Long-term disability coverage
• 401(k) plan with up to a 6% QACA company match
• Paid time off including vacation, sick time, and nine (9) paid company holidays
• Shift differentials for applicable off-shifts
• Discretionary bonus programs based on position and company performance

The CNC Lathe Machinist - Weekend Shift compensation range for onsite Washington applicants is $20-40 commensurate with experience. Some shifts may include shift differential pay rates. Other site ranges may differ.}

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

This position must meet Export Control compliance requirements, therefore a “US Person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.15 is required.

RTCA is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Applicants wishing to receive information on RTCA’s Affirmative Action Plans, or those requiring a reasonable accommodation to participate in the application or interview process, should contact the RTCA Human Resources Department. Qualified individuals with disabilities or disabled veterans who are unable or limited in their ability to access or use our career center due to a disability may request a reasonable accommodation by contacting Human Resources.

Candidates will receive consideration without discrimination in accordance with Article 9, Chapter XVIII of the City of Los Angeles Municipal Code and applicable federal, state, and local laws.

Weekend Shift, Friday-Sunday 5:00am-5:00pm