CNC Lathe Machinist

CNC Lathe Machinist

This role requires an experienced CNC Lathe Machinist who can independently take parts from engineering print to finished product. You will perform complete setups, select tooling and materials, download and run appropriate programs, and ensure parts meet tight tolerances, primarily on stainless steel components ranging from approximately 2 to 24 inches in size.

Responsibilities

• Take parts from engineering drawings to finished product independently, including setup, machining, and verification.
• Read and interpret blueprints and drawings from engineering with strong understanding of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T).
• Work directly with engineering to improve machining processes and suggest optimizations.
• Perform full machine setups, including changing jaws, touching off tools, building up tools, and indicating vises and fixtures.
• Set up lathes by installing and adjusting three-jaw and four-jaw chucks, tools, and attachments.
• Select appropriate tooling and materials for each job and download the correct CNC program to run the part.
• Operate and set up CNC lathes such as QTN-200-MY, QT-250, Integrex, DMG NTX 1000, and DMG CTX Beta 800, as well as other CNC equipment including HAAS and Mori machines.
• Run multiple machines at the same time, typically operating two machines concurrently while maintaining quality and efficiency.
• Work with tight tolerances and consistently hold specified tolerances on machined parts.
• Perform first-piece inspections using CMM machines and gauging tools such as air gauges, height gauges, calipers, and micrometers.
• Use measuring and inspection tools to verify dimensions and ensure parts meet print and tolerance requirements.
• Apply knowledge of G and M codes to adjust programs and perform necessary edits for CNC setup and operation.
• Troubleshoot machining issues by making adjustments and offsets when parts are not conforming to specifications.
• Use an autocrib system to manage tooling and related supplies.
• Perform approximately three setups per week while managing two machines at a time.
• Apply knowledge of machining speeds and feeds to optimize cutting conditions and tool life.
• Conduct gauging and inspections of parts throughout the machining process to ensure consistent quality.
• Follow written and verbal instructions, including those related to GD&T and process requirements.
• Participate in machining tests that focus on math and basic CNC concepts as part of competency verification.

Essential Skills

• At least 5 years of CNC machine setup experience.
• Strong CNC lathe setup and operation experience, including Mazak and DMG Mori lathes.
• Proven experience setting up machines and performing changeovers efficiently.
• Ability to find and set work offsets such as G54 and G55.
• Hands-on experience with micrometers, calipers, and other precision measuring tools.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and engineering drawings accurately.
• Capability to operate more than one machine at once, typically two machines simultaneously.
• Solid understanding of geometric tolerances and GD&T principles.
• Familiarity with G and M codes and the ability to apply basic programming knowledge for CNC setup and operation.
• Knowledge of machining speeds and feeds and how they affect part quality and tool life.
• Ability to perform gauging and inspection of parts using a variety of measurement tools.
• Capability to consistently hold tight tolerances on machined parts.
• Experience indicating vises and fixtures to ensure proper alignment.
• Experience setting up lathes with three-jaw and four-jaw chucks, tools, and attachments.
• Proficiency with measuring and inspection tools including micrometers, calipers, height gauges, and related equipment.
• Comfort working with stainless steel parts ranging from approximately 2 inches to 24 inches in size.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with Mazatrol and Siemens controls for CNC lathes.
• Experience using Fanuc controls on CNC equipment.
• Experience with Mastercam or similar CAM software for programming or program editing.
• Knowledge of CNC setup and changeovers on vertical milling centers and multi-axis turning centers.
• Experience with HAAS machines and Mori machines, including multi-axis turning centers.
• Familiarity with CNC programming concepts and the ability to make minor program adjustments.
• Strong troubleshooting experience in a CNC machining environment.
• Experience working with autocrib systems for tooling management.
• Comfort working with GD&T in both print interpretation and practical application.
• Experience with live tooling and multi-axis machining centers is beneficial.

Why Work Here?

You will work in a modern, growing aerospace manufacturing environment that invests in clean, well-lit, and technologically advanced facilities. The production floor features newer equipment, robotic systems, and multiple machine cells that support long-term skill development and career growth. Employees benefit from a comprehensive package that includes matching 401(k), dental, vision, and health coverage, as well as two weeks of paid vacation for permanent employees after six months. There are regular opportunities for overtime and structured pay increases throughout your career, supporting both financial stability and professional advancement.

Work Environment

This is a first-shift position, typically running from 5:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday. The shop floor is very clean, smoke-free, well lit, and highly organized, with excellent ventilation to provide a comfortable working environment. The facility features advanced CNC equipment, including vertical milling centers (such as HAAS and Integrex milling centers with live tooling) and 3- to 5-axis turning centers (including HAAS and Mori machines). The environment incorporates futuristic robots and multiple machine cells, offering exposure to modern manufacturing technology and processes. Dress is typical for a precision machining environment, with appropriate safety gear and attire suitable for working around CNC machinery.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Addison, IL.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $28.00 - $32.00/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)