CNC Setup Operator & Machinist

Job Description

Job Description

About Astro Packaging

Astro Packaging is a premier, family-owned manufacturer in the hot-melt adhesive industry. Based in Anaheim, CA, we design and build automated packaging and gluing equipment. We pride ourselves on a collaborative, small-business environment where precision craftsmanship and innovative problem-solving are highly valued.

Position Overview

We are seeking a skilled and confident CNC Setup Operator to manage, set up, and operate our machining department. In this role, you will be responsible for setting up and running jobs primarily in 6061 aluminum, producing high-accuracy, complex components for our in-house equipment.

The ideal candidate can confidently handle setups on Haas Vertical Mills (3, 4, and 5-axis) , operate manual machinery, utilize probing systems, and maintain tight tolerances. Candidates with CAM programming experience (Mastercam/Fusion 360) are highly encouraged to apply and will qualify for the top end of the pay scale.

Equipment You Will Manage & Operate:

• CNC: (3) Haas VF-4 Vertical Machining Centers (equipped with 4th and 5th-axis capabilities) and a Haas TL-2 Toolroom Lathe.
• Manual: TRAK K3 Manual Mill and a Manual Lathe.

Key Responsibilities

• Setup & Operation: Perform independent, complex setups and operate Haas CNC mills/lathes, as well as manual mills and lathes, to produce high-precision parts from blueprints.
• Probing & Work Coordinates: Utilize on-machine probing systems to set work coordinate systems (WCS), inspect part features, and manage tool/wear compensation.
• Quality Control & Inspection: Utilize precision inspection equipment (micrometers, calipers, bore gages, gage blocks) and interpret GD&T to verify part conformance to tight tolerances.
• Tooling & Maintenance: Monitor machine readiness, perform routine preventative maintenance, and manage tool wear compensation (replacing worn tooling and adjusting offsets as needed).
• Finishing: Deburr completed components by hand or using a vibratory tumbler to ensure clean, professional finishes.
• Shop Safety: Maintain a clean, organized workspace and strictly adhere to all workplace safety guidelines and "best machine practices."

Qualifications & Requirements

Minimum Requirements:

• Education: High school diploma, GED, or equivalent trade school certification.
• Experience: 1+ years minimum of dedicated experience setting up and operating CNC mills or lathes in a production or prototyping environment.
• Probing Proficiency: Proven experience utilizing on-machine automated probing systems (e.g., Renishaw) for part setup, work offsetting, and tool setting.
• Technical Skills: Ability to read blueprints, apply shop math, work with metric measurements, and accurately interpret Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Precision: Proven track record of holding tight tolerances on multi-axis setups.
• Mindset: Strong troubleshooting skills, creative problem-solving abilities, and accountability for quality workmanship.

Preferred Capabilities:

• 1+ year of hands-on CAM programming experience using Mastercam or Fusion 360 .
• Experience integrating probing cycles directly within CAM software for automated in-process inspection or automated stock location.
• Ability to independently program a part from a drawing, set up the machine, and execute the run from start to finish.

Physical Demands:

• Ability to stand, walk, push, reach overhead, and bend to the floor frequently throughout an 8-hour shift.
• Excellent manual dexterity to handle small precision tools, parts, and inspection equipment.
• Ability to occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Strong visual acuity, including close vision, depth perception, and focus adjustment.