Lathe Machinist

Lathe Machinist (Vertical Turning Lathe VTL)

This role focuses on operating, setting up, and troubleshooting Vertical Turning Lathes within a precision aerospace manufacturing environment. You will produce high-quality, large aerospace components while maintaining strict dimensional tolerances and adhering to established safety and quality standards. You will support setup activities, contribute to process improvements, and participate in continuous improvement initiatives in a CNC machining environment.

Responsibilities

• Operate Vertical Turning Lathes (VTL) to produce precision aerospace components to exact specifications.
• Set up CNC Vertical Turning Lathes, including tooling, workholding, and program adjustments as required.
• Troubleshoot machining issues, including dimensional deviations, surface finish concerns, and tooling problems, to maintain product quality and throughput.
• Assist with machine setup activities, ensuring efficient changeovers and proper alignment of tools and fixtures.
• Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and specifications to determine machining requirements and process steps.
• Use precision measuring equipment to inspect parts and verify that all dimensions meet strict aerospace tolerances and quality standards.
• Identify and recommend process improvements to enhance productivity, quality, and safety in the machining area.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives by providing feedback on machining processes, tooling, and workflow.
• Ensure compliance with all safety procedures, quality policies, and manufacturing standards in a production environment.
• Work collaboratively with team members, engineers, and quality personnel to resolve issues and optimize machining performance.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safety-focused work area around CNC machines and related equipment.
• Document work as required, including recording measurements, process changes, and quality checks.

Essential Skills

• Hands-on experience operating Vertical Turning Lathes (VTL) in a production or manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency in CNC machine setup and operation, including tooling selection and basic program adjustments.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and technical specifications.
• Strong skills in precision measurement using tools such as micrometers, calipers, and gauges.
• Previous CNC machining experience in a manufacturing setting.
• Aerospace manufacturing experience working with precision-machined components.
• Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to diagnose and troubleshoot machining issues.
• Knowledge of tooling, cutting methods, and machining best practices for metals and aerospace materials.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while also collaborating effectively within a team environment.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED preferred.
• VTL (Vertical Turning Lathe) experience strongly preferred.
• Experience using a variety of precision measuring equipment for in-process and final inspection.
• Familiarity with advanced CNC machining technologies and large-component machining.
• Comfort working with engineering specifications and quality documentation.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to maintaining tight dimensional tolerances.
• Problem-solving mindset with a focus on continuous improvement and process optimization.

You will contribute to advanced aerospace and defense programs while working with large, precision-machined components and modern CNC technologies. The organization offers a stable and growing environment with a strong culture of continuous improvement and employee development. You can build a long-term career with meaningful growth opportunities and ongoing exposure to advanced manufacturing practices.

Work Environment

You will work in a precision aerospace manufacturing facility with a CNC machining environment centered around large Vertical Turning Lathes and related equipment. The setting is safety-focused, with established procedures and standards guiding daily operations. The culture is team-oriented and quality-driven, emphasizing collaboration, adherence to strict tolerances, and continuous improvement in a production environment.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Newington, CT.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $68000.00 - $80000.00/yr. 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.

-health dental vision 401k

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Newington,CT.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Oct 12, 2026.