Set-up Machinist

CNC Programmer / Setup Machinist (Mastercam)Santa Fe Springs, CaliforniaDirect Hire – Benefited$32-$36/hr.Precision Components ManufacturingOur client is a long-established custom plastics manufacturer specializing in thermoformed plastic components, CNC machining, fabrication, and finishing for OEM customers across multiple industries including medical devices, instrumentation, telecommunications, and industrial equipment. The company produces both small and large-format thermoformed parts, many of which require precision CNC trimming, machining, and secondary fabrication before final assembly and shipment. With more than five decades of manufacturing experience, the company offers a stable environment where experienced machinists work closely with production and engineering teams to support prototype and production programs.Position SummaryWe are seeking a CNC Programmer / Setup Machinist with experience in Mastercam programming and CNC machine setup to support machining operations for thermoformed plastic components. This role will involve programming, setup, and machining of plastic parts on CNC equipment including a 3-axis router-style mill and CNC lathe. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience working with G-code programming, Mastercam, and CNC setup, along with the ability to troubleshoot machining processes and optimize programs. This position also offers a unique mentorship opportunity, as the successful candidate will work directly with the senior programmer/machinist who you will be taking over for in the coming years. The role will involve learning the company's machining processes, tooling strategies, and programming practices with the goal of eventually assuming broader programming responsibilities.ResponsibilitiesProgram CNC machines using Mastercam, with some use of Fusion 360 as neededPerform machine setups, tool changes, work offsets, and program verificationProgram and operate a 3-axis Fanuc-controlled router-style mill (Chevalier) used for trimming and machining plastic partsSupport machining operations on a 2-axis Takisawa CNC latheModify and optimize existing CNC programs to improve machining efficiency and part qualityInterpret engineering drawings and part models to develop machining strategiesSet up fixtures and tooling to support machining of thermoformed plastic componentsPerform test runs and troubleshoot programs, tooling, and machine performance issuesWork closely with production and experienced shop personnel to refine machining processesMaintain documentation for programs, setups, and tooling configurationsQualificationsExperience programming CNC machines using Mastercam (preferred)Strong understanding of G-code and M-code programming/editsExperience performing CNC machine setups and troubleshooting machining processesExperience performing set-ups on mills/lathesAbility to read mechanical drawings and understand dimensional tolerancesExperience machining plastic or non-metal materials is a plus but not requiredStrong mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn shop-specific processesIdeal BackgroundMid-level CNC Setup Machinist with programming exposureExperience using Mastercam for toolpath creation and editingComfortable programming and setting up machines but interested in continuing to learn from a senior machinist