Machinist

Job Title: Mill Machinist / CNC Mill Set-Up Technician

Job Description

This role focuses on setting up and operating CNC mills and machining centers to produce short-run, precision components from metallic and non-metallic materials. You will handle first-run setups, work with advanced multi-axis equipment, and collaborate closely with programming and manufacturing teams to ensure high-quality parts are delivered on time. The position is available on both day shift (7:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.) and swing shift (3:00 p.m. – 11:30 p.m.).

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC mills and machining centers for short-run, precision machining, with primary responsibility for first-run parts.
• Review and interpret CAD drawings, 3D models, blueprints, sketches, manuals, specifications, sample parts, work instructions, job travelers, and setup documentation to determine dimensions, tolerances, sequence of operations, and setup requirements.
• Set up and operate vertical milling, horizontal milling, turning centers, turn/mill centers, and multi-axis machines to fabricate precision machined parts.
• Specialize in setting up mill-turn sub-spindle live tooling lathes from start to finish with minimal or no supervision, while operating the machine to fully utilize its capabilities.
• Load and download CNC programs, offsets, and related data; select, align, and secure workholding/fixtures, cutting tools, attachments, and accessories; load CNC programs; and set applicable zeroes and offsets.
• Run initial or trial parts to verify accuracy of machine settings and programmed control data, making necessary adjustments to zeroes, offsets, and related parameters.
• Start and monitor machine operations to detect malfunctions or out-of-tolerance conditions, adjusting machine controls as required to maintain quality.
• Prove out CNC programs and provide feedback and strategies to the Programming Department and other relevant personnel for corrections and improvements.
• Provide input for CNC program adjustments and, as assigned, calculate and set controls to regulate machining factors such as speed, feed, coolant flow, and depth and angle of cut.
• Verify conformance of finished workpieces to specifications, measuring and documenting in-process inspection data using calibrated measuring and test equipment.
• Submit first article pieces to the Inspection Department for verification and buy-off on the job traveler before proceeding with production runs.
• Log into and out of job operations in the ERP system and accurately complete job travelers, including quantities and other required data.
• Design and fabricate, or support others in creating, tooling, cutters, workholding, fixtures, jaws, or addressing related procurement issues as needed.
• Monitor and maintain machine coolants, lubricants, oils, fluids, and grease, refilling as required or requesting Maintenance support when appropriate.
• Document maintenance tasks performed on machine coolant fluid maintenance logs, as applicable.
• Guide and instruct other machine operators, machinists, or personnel as assigned to support ongoing production runs and operations.
• Coordinate and collaborate with machining, CNC programming, CMM programming, engineering, inspection, manufacturing, and quality personnel to optimize processes and resolve issues.
• Provide input and solutions for technical, programming, and production-related problems, recommending improvements to enhance product quality, operational efficiency, safety, and equipment utilization.
• Maintain a strong sense of urgency and prioritize work to meet critical deadlines and on-time delivery requirements.
• Follow established company processes and policies, including submitting all requested program edits through formal program change request procedures rather than editing at the machine.

Essential Skills

• Intermediate to journeyman-level CNC mill machining experience, including set-up experience.
• Ability to independently set up and run CNC vertical and horizontal mills from start to finish using setup documentation.
• Strong proficiency in reading and interpreting CAD drawings, models, blueprints, sketches, specifications, and work instructions.
• Hands-on experience setting up and operating vertical and horizontal mills, turning centers, turn/mill centers, and multi-axis machines.
• Ability to select and set up workholding/fixtures, cutting tools, attachments, and accessories for CNC machining operations.
• Experience loading and downloading CNC programs, setting zeroes and offsets, and validating initial setups.
• Skill in monitoring machine operations, identifying malfunctions or out-of-tolerance conditions, and making appropriate adjustments.
• Proficiency in using precision measuring instruments and calibrated test equipment to verify part conformance and document in-process inspection data.
• Familiarity with G and M codes and the fundamentals of CNC programming and program prove-out.
• Experience with Mazak and F…