Cnc Lathe Machinist

Lathe Machinist – Protoshop (CNC & Manual)

This role focuses on setting up and operating CNC and manual lathe and mill equipment in a protoshop environment to produce precision components for an aerospace machine workshop. You will interpret blueprints, apply strong geometric dimensioning and tolerancing principles, and use advanced measurement tools to ensure parts meet strict specifications. The position also involves troubleshooting machining issues, maintaining accurate documentation, and supporting continuous improvement in methods and processes.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC lathes and related equipment in a protoshop environment to produce precision parts according to engineering drawings and specifications.
• Interpret blueprints and apply strong geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) and math skills to ensure parts meet dimensional and tolerance requirements.
• Read and interpret CNC machining programs, including a basic understanding of common G and M codes, and make appropriate adjustments within defined parameters.
• Operate and monitor machines such as Okuma Captain L370W, Okuma Impact LU15, and Okuma LB3000 with base controls, as well as multi-spindle machines including MS52.
• Utilize Siemens and Fanuc controls to run and adjust lathe machine tools and multi-spindle equipment.
• Perform manual machining operations on equipment such as Bridgeport mills, Protrak RLX, Track DPM, and other standard manual mills and lathes.
• Use basic tabletop gauges and precision measurement tools, including micrometers, calipers, plug gauges, bore micrometers, and related instruments to verify part dimensions.
• Troubleshoot machining issues, identify root causes, and implement corrective actions to maintain part quality and machine performance.
• Notify the supervisor promptly of abnormal situations, equipment malfunctions, or quality concerns to support timely corrective action.
• Make recommendations for improvements in work methods, setups, tooling, and processes to increase efficiency, quality, and safety.
• Complete and maintain all required documentation accurately, including job travelers, inspection records, and production logs.
• Maintain good housekeeping conditions in the work area, ensuring tools, materials, and equipment are organized and stored properly.
• Enforce and follow safety practices consistently, including proper use of personal protective equipment and adherence to shop safety procedures.
• Communicate effectively with team members and supervisors regarding job status, issues, and process changes.
• Apply strong organizational and time management skills to handle multiple jobs, prioritize tasks, and meet production schedules.
• Use problem-solving and analytical skills to resolve production and quality issues in a timely and effective manner.

Essential Skills

• Strong geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) and math skills.
• Ability to read and interpret CNC machining programs with a basic understanding of common G and M codes.
• Experience with Siemens controls for lathe machine tools.
• Proficiency with basic tabletop gauges, including micrometers, calipers, plug gauges, and bore micrometers.
• On-the-job training (OJT) or machine shop experience, preferably with both mill and lathe operations.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong organization and time management skills.
• Demonstrated problem-solving and analysis abilities.
• Hands-on experience operating CNC machines in a machine shop environment.
• Ability to troubleshoot machining and equipment issues.
• Capability to work from blueprints and engineering drawings.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Swiss lathe experience with more than 5 years on the machine is highly valued.
• Experience with multi-spindle machines such as MS52 is beneficial.
• Familiarity with Fanuc controls in addition to Siemens controls.
• Past experience in manual machining on equipment such as Bridgeport, Protrak RLX, Track DPM, and standard manual mills and lathes.
• Prior experience in an aerospace machine workshop or similar precision manufacturing environment.
• Comfort working with both CNC lathe and CNC mill operations.
• Experience making process improvement suggestions in a production or protoshop setting.

Why Work Here?

The organization emphasizes growth and promotes from within, providing clear opportunities to advance your skills and career over time. Comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, support your overall well-being. You will work in a professional environment that values continuous improvement, technical excellence, and long-term development of its employees.

Work Environment

You will work in an aerospace machine workshop within a protoshop setting, operating a mix of CNC and manual equipment. Primary machines include Okuma Captain L370W, Okuma Impact LU15, Okuma LB3000 with base controls, and multi-spindle machines such as MS52, along with Swiss lathes where applicable. Manual equipment includes Bridgeport mills, Protrak RLX, Track DPM, and other standard manual mills and lathes. Controls used in the shop include Siemens and Fanuc systems. The core schedule for the protoshop machinist role is Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM, with additional coverage needs on weekday nights, weekend days, and weekend nights for certain positions. The environment is a structured machine shop where safety, cleanliness, and good housekeeping are critical, and appropriate shop attire and personal protective equipment are required to work around active machinery and precision tools.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Tukwila, WA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $22.00 - $35.00/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)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Tukwila, WA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Oct 8, 2026.