Precision CNC Mill/Lathe Setup Technician

A day in the life

You arrive to a clean, organized bay and review the day’s work orders and prints. You choose the right workholding, load the program, dial in tool offsets, and run a careful first piece. With calipers and mics in hand, you verify every critical feature, make a minor edit, and let the next parts flow. Between runs, you deburr, keep the machine oiled and tidy, and record quality checks. When something doesn’t look right, you troubleshoot quickly so the schedule stays on track. Depending on shop needs, you’ll rotate across CNC mills, lathes, and occasionally presses, brakes, or other fabrication equipment.

What you’ll handle

• Set up and operate CNC and/or manual machines to meet part specifications
• Interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, setup sheets, and work orders
• Select/install tooling, fixtures, and workholding to support stable, repeatable machining
• Load programs, set/adjust tool and work offsets, and monitor processes for accuracy and finish
• Perform first-article and in-process inspections with precision gauges (calipers, micrometers, indicators, squares)
• Run secondary operations such as deburring, drilling, tapping, and light finishing
• Make minor program edits or machine adjustments as needed (when applicable)
• Troubleshoot setup and machining issues to reduce scrap and downtime
• Maintain accurate production and quality documentation
• Conduct basic machine care: cleaning, lubrication, and routine tool changes
• Follow safety procedures, quality requirements, and good housekeeping practices

What you bring

• Hands-on experience with CNC and/or fabrication equipment (mills, lathes, presses, brakes, etc.)
• Ability to read technical drawings and follow written work instructions
• Working knowledge of precision measurement tools and inspection methods
• Understanding of machining processes, tolerances, and material behavior
• High attention to detail and a quality-first mindset
• Ability to work independently and collaborate within a production team

Nice to have

• CNC setup experience and offset adjustments
• G-code or conversational controls knowledge (e.g., Mazatrol)
• Experience with CAD/CAM or CNC programming software
• Exposure to multi-axis machining
• Background in lean manufacturing or continuous improvement
• Personal hand tools available for use, if required by the shop

Where you’ll work

• Manufacturing floor with active machinery, shop materials, and typical noise levels
• Standing, walking, bending, and reaching throughout the shift
• Ability to lift 40–50 lbs as needed
• Consistent use of required PPE

Employment details

• Full-time, onsite role
• Shift availability may include day or night shift
• Compensation and title commensurate with experience