1st Shift Machinist

1st Shift CNC Machinist (Lathe)This 1st shift CNC Machinist (Lathe) role is a hands-on position in a small, climate-controlled job shop environment, focused on setting up and operating CNC machines to produce precision parts. You will work Monday through Thursday from 6:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and Friday from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., using live tooling, reading blueprints, and performing machine edits and tool changes to meet tight tolerances and quality standards.ResponsibilitiesSet up and operate up to two CNC machines in a job shop environment to produce precision parts using live tooling.Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and job orders to determine machining requirements.Perform machine edits, offsets, and tool changes to maintain accurate and efficient production.Set up machines and perform changeovers and tear downs as required for different jobs.Select appropriate tooling for each job based on material, tolerances, and machining requirements.Use precision measuring instruments such as micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, and other equipment to verify part dimensions to tight tolerances of +/- 0.005.Monitor machine operations and make adjustments as necessary to maintain quality and productivity standards.Troubleshoot machining and equipment issues and perform minor repairs to keep machines running effectively.Document work performed, measurements, and any adjustments or changes made during production.Collaborate with team members to resolve issues, share knowledge, and improve production processes.Work with a variety of materials including steel, aluminum, stainless steel, copper, bronze, cast iron, and plastics.Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area in accordance with shop standards.Essential SkillsAt least 5 years of experience operating and setting up CNC machines (mills or lathes) in a job shop environment.Strong experience with CNC lathe operations; CNC mill experience is also valuable.Proficiency in setting up and tearing down CNC machines for different jobs.Ability to perform offsets, tool changes, and machine edits confidently and accurately.Experience selecting and choosing appropriate tooling for various materials and jobs.Skilled in using precision measuring equipment, including micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, and similar tools, to verify tight tolerances of +/- 0.005.Ability to read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and job orders.Hands-on experience with troubleshooting machining issues and performing minor equipment repairs.Comfort working with multiple materials, including steel, aluminum, stainless steel, copper, bronze, cast iron, and plastics.Experience working in a job shop environment with varied and custom work.Competence with CNC machine setup, changeovers, and production in a machine shop setting.Additional Skills & QualificationsExperience with CNC mills and lathes, including vertical and horizontal mills.Familiarity with precision machining, milling, and turning operations.Using Fanuc and conversational controls for CNC programming and operation.Exposure to GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing) for interpreting prints and ensuring accurate machining.Experience in manual machining in addition to CNC work.Knowledge of machine shop operations, including setup of different machine types.Familiarity with brands and controls such as Haas, Fadal, Mazatrol, Lynx, Puma, Emco, and Doosan.Ability to work with a mix of new and older equipment in a job shop environment.Comfort with documenting work and maintaining records related to machining operations.Why Work Here?Employees enjoy a stable 1st shift schedule with short Fridays and no weekend work, supporting strong work-life balance. The company offers six standard paid holidays, vacation after the first year, and a benefits package designed to support long-term employment. Team members are recognized for their contributions through a meaningful Christmas bonus program and regular company cookouts, fostering a supportive and appreciative culture. The environment is laid back and family-oriented, making it a place where skilled machinists can feel valued and enjoy coming to work.Work EnvironmentThe role is based in a small job shop facility of approximately 37,000 square feet, with around 30 machines and 20 employees. The shop operates a mix of mills and lathes, including primarily Haas mills with one Fadal mill, and various CNC lathes such as Lynx, Doosan/Puma, and other comparable machines. The environment is family owned, laid back, and climate controlled, with a clean, safe, and organized workspace. You will work with a mix of new and older equipment, using modern CNC controls such as Fanuc and conversational interfaces. The position follows a 1st shift schedule from Monday to Thursday, 6:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., with no weekend work required.