Lead CNC Setup Machinist / Programmer

Job Description

Job Description

Summary

We're looking for an experienced CNC machinist who enjoys programming, process development, and solving manufacturing problems. This position is ideal for someone who wants to own jobs from print through production rather than simply operating machines.

This is not a production operator position. We are looking for someone who enjoys solving manufacturing problems, developing machining processes, programming CNC equipment, selecting tooling, and proving out first articles.

You'll receive a print and CAD model, determine the manufacturing strategy, select tooling, create CNC programs, perform setups, and prove out production. Once the process is established, production may be handed off to another operator while you move on to the next project.

Strong CNC lathe experience is essential. We're actively expanding our turning capabilities and are looking for someone who can develop efficient lathe processes while also leading CAM programming across the shop.

We're a small shop, so the right person will have a direct impact on how we grow. If you enjoy improving processes, implementing automation, and building efficient manufacturing systems, you'll fit in well here.

Responsibilities

• Develop complete machining processes from print and CAD model.
• Program CNC mills and lathes using Fusion 360 CAM.
• Select tooling, workholding, and machining strategies.
• Set up and prove first articles.
• Troubleshoot machining and quality issues.
• Optimize cycle times and manufacturing processes.
• Develop fixtures and improve repeatability.
• Assist with automation opportunities including probing, fourth-axis work, and lights-out machining.
• Support operators during production and resolve manufacturing issues.
• Help establish standards and procedures as the company continues to grow.

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong CAM programming experience (Fusion 360 preferred, other CAM systems considered).
• Experience programming CNC mills from CAD models.
• Strong CNC lathe experience, including process development and setup.
• Comfortable selecting tooling and developing machining strategies.
• Ability to troubleshoot programs, tooling, and setups independently.
• Experience with Haas and Okuma controls is a plus.
• Experience with probing, fourth-axis machining, or automation is highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of GD&T, blueprint reading, and inspection methods.
• Ability to own projects from initial print through production.

What We're Looking For

We're less interested in the number of years you've been machining and more interested in how you approach manufacturing problems.

The ideal candidate enjoys figuring out better ways to make parts, improving processes, learning new technology, and helping build a growing machine shop.

You don't need to know everything, but you should be curious, self-motivated, and capable of taking ownership of a project with minimal direction.

About Us

We're a growing CNC job shop focused on high-quality, low-volume machining. Every project is different, and every day presents new challenges. As we continue to grow, this position will play a major role in shaping our manufacturing processes and expanding our capabilities.