CNC Machinist

CNC Lathe Setup Operator / MachinistThis role is a hands-on CNC lathe setup operator position in a high-volume manufacturing environment, focused on setting up, operating, and quality-checking parts produced on CNC equipment. You will work with various metals, perform precise setups on multiple machines, and ensure all parts meet tight specifications through consistent quality control and use of precision measurement tools.ResponsibilitiesRetrieve raw materials from the staging area and prepare them for machining.Load bar stock and various metal materials into CNC Haas milling and lathe machines.Set up and operate a cell of three CNC machines, including tooling, offsets, and fixtures.Perform approximately three complete machine setups per day, ensuring all parameters are correctly configured.Run the first piece for each setup and perform 100% quality inspection to verify the part meets specifications.Run production parts and perform quality checks on at least one part every hour to maintain consistent quality.Use micrometers, calipers, gauges, and profiling tools to verify dimensions and ensure parts meet required tolerances.Maintain the ability to hold tight tolerances of +/- 0.005 inches on all machined parts.Read and interpret blueprints and engineering drawings to understand dimensions, tolerances, and machining requirements.Utilize G and M code on Fanuc controls to make program edits when necessary to improve part quality or resolve issues.Troubleshoot machining issues, perform changeovers, and make adjustments to machines and tooling to optimize performance.Use live tooling on CNC lathes when required by the job or part design.Follow established quality procedures and documentation requirements for inspections and part approvals.Maintain a clean and organized work area and adhere to all safety guidelines, including use of required personal protective equipment.Collaborate with team members and supervisors to meet production schedules and support continuous improvement initiatives.Essential SkillsMinimum of 3 years of CNC lathe setup and operation experience in a manufacturing environment.At least 3 years of experience reading and working from prints and engineering drawings.Proficiency in setting up and operating CNC lathes, including tooling, offsets, and fixtures.Ability to use live tooling on CNC lathes as required by the part or process.Strong blueprint reading skills, including understanding of dimensions, tolerances, and symbols.Hands-on experience with G and M code and the ability to edit programs on Fanuc controls.Demonstrated troubleshooting skills for machining processes, setups, and changeovers.Proficient use of precision measurement tools such as micrometers, calipers, gauges, and profiling tools.Ability to consistently hold tight tolerances of +/- 0.005 inches on machined parts.Solid understanding of quality control practices in a machining environment, including first-piece and in-process inspections.Additional Skills & QualificationsConversational programming experience on CNC machines is preferred.Experience with Swiss CNC machining is a plus.Familiarity with Haas CNC equipment and Fanuc controls is beneficial.Comfort working in a high-volume machining environment with multiple machines and setups.Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality parts.Ability to work extended hours as needed to meet production demands.Why Work Here?You will join a growing manufacturing operation that is actively investing in its facilities, equipment, and people. The company has recently completed an expansion and is planning further growth, creating opportunities for long-term stability and development. Team members have access to a partnered health clinic offering very low-cost visits, supporting your well-being. The organization encourages work-life balance by concentrating additional hours primarily on Fridays, minimizing weekend work. You can also take advantage of unique wellness benefits, including being paid to work out every other day, reflecting a culture that values health, continuous improvement, and employee support.Work EnvironmentYou will work in a clean, well-lit manufacturing facility with more than 75 machining centers and modern CNC equipment. The role is on a first shift schedule from approximately 2:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., and you can expect to work around 50 hours per week, with most additional hours concentrated on Fridays and minimal weekend requirements. The environment is fast-paced and production-focused, with a strong emphasis on safety and quality. Required attire includes jeans, steel-toe footwear, high-visibility clothing, and safety glasses, reflecting the industrial nature of the work setting.Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of La Porte, IN.Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $24.00 - $28.00/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)