CNC Lathe Machinist

Job Description

Job Description

CNC Lathe Setup Machinist – 2nd Shift

• Location: Stanchfield, MN
• Department: Lathe / Machining
• Employment Type: Full-Time, Direct Hire
• Schedule: Monday–Friday, 3:30 PM–12:00 AM
• Pay: $30–$35/hour
• Shift Differential: Additional $1–$2/hour based on experience

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced CNC Lathe Setup Machinist to join a precision manufacturing operation in Stanchfield, MN. This is a higher-level machining position for someone who can independently take a CNC lathe job from print through setup, programming, troubleshooting, and first-piece approval .

This is not an operator-level position. The ideal candidate has strong hands-on CNC turning experience and can step into a fast-paced production environment with minimal training.

Production runs vary significantly, ranging from one-piece chucking jobs to high-volume bar-feed orders of 10,000+ pieces.

What You’ll Do

• Independently set up and run CNC lathes/turning equipment from print through first-piece approval
• Set up multi-axis CNC lathes, including 4-axis, multi-turret, bar-feed, and chucking applications
• Read, understand, edit, and troubleshoot G-code and M-code programs
• Make program edits, work shifts, tool offsets, and process adjustments directly on the floor
• Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, GD&T, and process documentation
• Select and install tooling, inserts, fixtures, and appropriate cutting parameters
• Determine and adjust speeds and feeds based on material and part requirements
• Perform first-piece and in-process inspections using micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, height gauges, and other precision measuring equipment
• Troubleshoot dimensional, tooling, setup, and machining issues independently
• Complete multiple setups across different machines as production needs change
• Work with operators to ensure a smooth transition from setup into production
• Collaborate with engineering, quality, maintenance, and production teams when additional troubleshooting is needed
• Maintain accurate production and inspection documentation
• Support lean manufacturing, quality, safety, and continuous improvement initiatives

What We’re Looking For

• 3–5+ years of CNC machining experience , with significant hands-on CNC lathe/turning experience
• Demonstrated ability to perform independent CNC lathe setups
• Experience taking jobs from blueprint/print through first-piece approval
• Hands-on experience with multi-axis CNC lathe equipment; 4-axis experience strongly preferred
• Strong understanding of G-code and M-code programming/editing
• Experience with Fanuc controls strongly preferred
• Mori Seiki, Mazak, Siemens, and/or LICO machine experience is a plus
• Ability to troubleshoot machining problems and make process adjustments without significant supervision
• Strong blueprint-reading and precision measurement skills
• Knowledge of GD&T, tooling applications, cutting speeds, and feeds
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills
• High school diploma or equivalent required; technical or machining certification is a plus

Please note: This role specifically requires CNC lathe/turning experience. Candidates whose CNC background is exclusively in mills or unrelated manufacturing processes would not be a match for this position.

Compensation & Benefits

Base compensation is generally $30–$35/hour , depending heavily on depth of CNC lathe setup and programming experience. Exceptional candidates may be considered up to approximately $40/hour .

An additional $1–$2/hour shift differential is available depending on experience.

The company also offers a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, retirement benefits, PTO, and paid holidays.

Employees can also earn attendance incentives, including:

• Up to $200 in monthly attendance/reliability bonuses
• An additional $200 quarterly bonus for maintaining perfect attendance throughout the quarter

Overtime may occasionally be required based on production demand. When mandatory Saturday overtime is needed, employees are typically notified at the beginning of the week.

The Team & Opportunity

You’ll join an established Lathe Department with approximately 12 operators and work alongside experienced manufacturing, engineering, quality, and maintenance professionals.

This is a stable, long-term opportunity for a machinist who wants to continue developing technically. Depending on individual interests and future openings, there may also be opportunities to grow into areas such as quality or other manufacturing functions.

Interview Process

Qualified candidates will participate in an onsite interview with manufacturing leadership, meet members of the production and engineering teams, and tour the facility. The process typically takes about one hour.

This is a direct-hire, onsite position with no travel required .