Cnc Machinist

CNC Lathe MachinistThis role focuses on setting up, operating, and maintaining CNC lathes and mills to produce high-performance thermoplastic components used in demanding industrial applications. You ensure efficient, safe, and high-quality production by interpreting blueprints and work orders, performing precise measurements, and executing machining programs. You contribute directly to a clean, orderly, and continuously improving manufacturing environment that supports sustainable, long-term growth.ResponsibilitiesPromote a positive, safe, and stable work environment aligned with continuous improvement and sustainability values.Ensure a safe workplace, efficient production processes, minimal downtime, and a clean, orderly production area.Use ERP software for data collection to accurately log time and production activities.Read and interpret work orders, flow sheets, and part drawings to determine all aspects of each job to be manufactured.Check and verify blueprint dimensions using manual inspection equipment and gauges.Load and verify tools required for each job, ensuring correct selection and secure installation.Load and verify fixtures and make basic fixtures as needed to support production.Pull material from the staging area for specific jobs and verify correctness against the work order or WOPAC.Set up and operate 3-axis mills proficiently for production runs.Set up basic 2-axis lathe work, including tooling, fixturing, and program verification.Upload and download CNC programs to and from machines as provided by the programmer.Indicate vices straight and accurately align workholding devices.Pick up the center of fixtures and establish accurate workpiece zero points.Submit first article and final inspection parts to Quality Assurance to verify dimensions and any features not checked manually.Run all parts required for each production order according to specifications and quality standards.Perform in-process inspections during production runs to ensure dimensional accuracy and product quality.Maintain a clean work area and machine, consistently practicing 5S principles.Perform daily and monthly preventative maintenance on assigned machines.Communicate effectively with team members to ensure successful completion of production jobs.Complete additional duties as directed to support production and operational needs.Adhere to and support all safety and quality system requirements in a safety-sensitive position.Essential SkillsHigh school diploma or equivalent.35 years of CNC machining experience, or CNC certification plus 12 years of CNC machining experience.Hands-on experience with CNC machining operations, including setup and production.Proficiency in blueprint reading to interpret dimensions, tolerances, and machining requirements.Ability to use manual inspection gauges and equipment to verify part dimensions.Experience editing and writing CNC programs.Basic math skills with trigonometry knowledge preferred.Basic knowledge of ERP software for data collection and time logging.Proficiency with setup on 3-axis mills.Ability to set up basic 2-axis lathe work.Understanding and practical use of GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing).Mechanical aptitude and familiarity with CNC machining equipment, including lathe and mill technologies.Ability to lift up to approximately 50 pounds and stand for long periods of time.Commitment to safety and adherence to safety-sensitive work practices.Additional Skills & QualificationsExperience working with high-performance thermoplastic materials and composites is a plus.Prior use of ERP systems in a manufacturing environment is beneficial.Familiarity with 5S and other continuous improvement methodologies.Comfort working with various manual gauges and inspection tools.Ability to collaborate effectively with production, programming, and quality teams.Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality parts.Interest in ongoing learning and development related to machining and manufacturing.Why Work Here?Employees benefit from comprehensive, competitive benefits that start on day one, supporting both health and financial well-being. The organization offers BCBS health benefits designed to reduce medical insurance costs, a 5% 401(k) match with 100% vesting, and profit sharing to reward collective success. Team members have access to Employee Assistance Programs and curated, self-paced learning and development programs for continuous professional growth. Practical support includes an annual steel toe voucher and a glasses voucher to help cover essential work-related gear. The company emphasizes safety, with a strong record of accident-free operations over multiple years, and fosters a culture focused on sustainability, long-term stability, and improvement.Work EnvironmentThe role is based in a manufacturing environment that produces high-performance thermoplastic components using CNC lathes and mills, supported by ERP software and manual inspection equipment. Typical shifts run Monday through Friday from 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. or from 4:00 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., providing structured, full-time hours. The facility emphasizes cleanliness and organization through 5S principles, with regular machine preventative maintenance and a strong focus on safety as this is a safety-sensitive position. Team members use gauges, blueprint reading tools, and CNC technologies in a production area that is kept orderly and efficient. The environment requires standing for extended periods and occasionally lifting up to approximately 50 pounds, with appropriate steel-toe footwear and safety glasses supported through company vouchers.Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of North Chicago, IL.Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $28.00 - $36.00/hr.Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.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)