Cnc Lathe Machinist

CNC Lathe Machinist

This role operates and sets up CNC lathes to produce precision parts in a modern manufacturing environment. You interpret complex blueprints and GD&T, program and edit CNC controls, and ensure parts meet exact specifications through careful measurement and inspection. You support continuous improvement, mentor other machinists, and help maintain a safe, clean, and collaborative workplace.

Responsibilities

• Review and interpret work orders, blueprints, engineering plans, material specifications, locations, and machining parameters to meet production schedules and quality requirements.
• Interpret and apply complex geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) to ensure parts meet engineering specifications.
• Operate CNC lathes by entering instructions, including zero and reference points, setting tool registers, offsets, compensation, and conditional switches.
• Use basic math, geometry, and trigonometry to calculate machining requirements and apply G-code and/or conversational programming as needed.
• Set up CNC lathes by programming and editing controls, installing and adjusting tools, attachments, collets, bushings, and stops, and accurately indicating parts with minimal to no assistance.
• Safely load raw materials by lifting stock into position and verify machine settings by measuring positions, first-run parts, and sample workpieces in accordance with applicable standards.
• Monitor drilling, grooving, cutting, turning, and facing operations to ensure parts meet specifications and make adjustments as necessary.
• Measure and inspect parts using appropriate tools to identify malfunctions or deviations and apply troubleshooting techniques to correct issues.
• Adjust and edit existing programs and replace worn tools to maintain quality and productivity.
• Follow and adhere to all quality assurance procedures and processes to ensure consistent output and compliance with internal standards.
• Perform preventive maintenance on CNC equipment by following manufacturer instructions, troubleshooting malfunctions, and reporting issues promptly for repair.
• Train and mentor other machinists on production, programming, troubleshooting, and maintenance procedures to promote consistency and accuracy.
• Document and communicate actions, irregularities, and ongoing needs to maintain continuity between work shifts and complete production and quality logs accurately.
• Support organizational goals by accepting ownership of new tasks and seeking opportunities for continuous improvement in processes and methods.
• Promote positive employee and customer relations by demonstrating professionalism, courtesy, and respect in all interactions and responding appropriately to inquiries, concerns, and complaints.
• Maintain regular, consistent, reliable, punctual, and predictable attendance to support internal and external customer satisfaction.
• Actively participate in problem resolution using constructive communication, timely responses, and effective resolution skills, and collaborate effectively with team members across departments.
• Comply with all company policies and procedures and actively support and follow the company's safety program.
• Participate in company and department meetings, training activities, continuing education programs, and related development opportunities.
• Consistently demonstrate and communicate the organization's core values through work performance and customer service.
• Perform other related tasks and duties as assigned to support production and organizational objectives.

Essential Skills

• High school diploma or GED.
• At least 3 years of CNC machining and CNC lathe set-up experience.
• Proficiency operating CNC lathes, including entering offsets, tool registers, and machine parameters.
• Experience with G-code and M-code programming and editing.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and engineering drawings.
• Strong understanding and practical application of GD&T (geometric dimensioning and tolerancing).
• Experience with CNC program editing to adjust and refine machining operations.
• Hands-on experience with CNC lathe tooling, tool changes, and machine setup.
• Proficiency using measuring tools such as calipers, micrometers, and other inspection instruments.
• Ability to perform inspections and verify parts against specifications using appropriate measurement techniques.
• Familiarity with Fanuc and Okuma CNC controls or similar control systems.
• Experience working in a machine shop environment with CNC lathe operations.
• Ability to troubleshoot machining issues and adjust programs or tooling to correct problems.
• Basic math, geometry, and trigonometry skills for calculating machining dimensions and offsets.
• Ability to complete production and quality logs accurately and legibly.
• Effective communication skills in English in person, by telephone, and in writing.
• Ability to use a personal computer for basic tasks related to production and documentation.
• Physical ability to stand for long periods, bend, reach, walk, and use hands and fingers to handle or feel parts and tools.
• Ability to lift up to 75 pounds occasionally and up to 25 pounds frequently.
• Visual abilities including close vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus to perform detailed inspection work.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with P-code programming.
• Experience operating or setting up twin turret lathes.
• Familiarity with graphite machining environments.
• Experience working with high-temperature materials or advanced industrial materials.
• Background in environments that follow ISO Quality Assurance Standards.
• Comfort working in a global or multi-site organization.
• Interest in continuous learning through training, continuing education, and cross-functional collaboration.

Why Work Here?

You join a privately owned, global organization that has grown from humble beginnings to a presence in dozens of countries, offering long-term stability and advancement opportunities. The company operates in a brand-new, state-of-the-art facility with advanced air filtration systems, providing a clean and modern work environment even when machining graphite. You benefit from clear paths for growth, including opportunities to move from contract to direct employment, shift differentials for second and third shifts, additional compensation for running multiple machines, and double-time pay on Sundays. Overtime is available but not mandatory for new hires, supporting work-life balance while still offering the option to increase earnings. The culture emphasizes innovation, continuous improvement, and strategic partnerships with customers, supported by product specialists, scientists, and strong quality standards. Employees work in an environment that values tolerance, acceptance, civility, and collaborative problem-solving, with ongoing training and development designed to help you grow your skills and career.

Work Environment

This position works on the 2nd shift, Monday through Thursday, from 3:00 PM to 1:00 AM. Overtime is available on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, and is generally voluntary for new hires, with senior employees typically filling additional hours. The role is based in a modern manufacturing facility that combines natural and artificial lighting, with exposure to ambient and controlled temperatures. You will work with graphite, which can generate light to moderate airborne dust; however, the facility uses state-of-the-art air filtration systems to extract particles and maintain air quality. The background noise level is moderate, consistent with a typical machine shop. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is required and provided, and you will wear a uniform appropriate for machining and handling graphite materials. The job requires standing for extended periods, frequent bending, reaching, and walking, and regular use of hands and fingers to handle tools, parts, and measuring instruments. You must occasionally lift up to 75 pounds and frequently lift up to 25 pounds. The work involves detailed visual inspection, including close and color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. You will work with CNC lathes, advanced filtration systems, and standard machine shop tools in a structured environment that emphasizes safety, cleanliness, and adherence to established procedures.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Aurora, OH.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $23.00 - $25.00/hr.

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) •