CNC Mill-Turn Machinist

Purpose

The CNC Mill-Turn Machinist (known internally as CNC Machining Specialist) is a hands-on technical expert responsible for developing and executing precision machining strategies with an emphasis on CNC turning operations, while maintaining versatility across milling and multi-axis machining environments. This role supports the production of high-performance components for advanced aerospace, automotive, and next-generation manufacturing systems.

Operating with a high degree of autonomy, this individual partners closely with design and manufacturing engineering to translate complex hardware requirements into robust, scalable machining processes. The role is deeply rooted in shop-floor execution—owning setups, solving problems in real time, and driving machining excellence from prototype through rate production. This position plays a critical role in building repeatable, high-quality processes, improving throughput, and enabling rapid iteration in a fast-paced production environment.

Responsibilities

• Turning & Machining Execution
  • Lead setup, operation, and optimization of CNC turning centers (mill-turn and multi-axis lathes) for precision components.
  • Execute machining & grinding across a range of equipment as needed, including 3-axis, 3+2, and 5-axis mills to support production demands.
  • Own first article through production runs, ensuring parts meet dimensional, surface finish, and performance requirements.
  • Apply advanced understanding of GD&T to validate setups and machining strategies directly on the floor.
• Process Development & Optimization
  • Define machining strategies across turning and milling operations, including tooling selection, workholding/fixturing concepts, and program approach and sequencing.
  • Identify and eliminate inefficiencies in cycle time, tool life, and setup methodology.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve machining challenges (chatter, tool wear, thermal distortion, tolerance stack-up, machine limitations).
  • Partner with engineering to drive Design for Manufacturability (DFM), especially for turned features and rotational geometries.
• Production Ownership & Continuous Improvement
  • Take full ownership of machining processes on the floor—from initial prove-out to stable production.
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on cycle time reduction, scrap and rework reduction, and process capability and repeatability.
  • Support production ramp by developing scalable processes, standardized tooling, and repeatable setups.
  • Act with urgency to resolve blockers impacting delivery schedules and production output.
• Quality & Documentation
  • Ensure all hardware meets internal and industry quality standards through disciplined process control.
  • Develop and maintain setup sheets, work instructions, and process standards.
  • Collaborate with inspection teams to validate measurement strategies for tight-tolerance turned features.
  • Support root cause analysis and corrective actions for non-conformances.
• Team Leadership & Mentorship
  • Mentor machinists and operators on turning best practices, machining fundamentals, and advanced techniques.
  • Promote strong shop culture centered on accountability, craftsmanship, and continuous learning.
  • Provide technical guidance across shifts to ensure consistency and process adherence.
• Safety & Operational Excellence
  • Champion Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) standards within all machining activities.
  • Proactively identify risks in machining operations and implement mitigation strategies.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and high-functioning work environment aligned with high-performance production standards.

Basic Qualifications

• Extensive experience operating CNC turning centers (2-axis, live tooling, mill-turn, or multi-axis lathes).
• Strong cross-functional machining experience including milling (3-axis, 3+2, 5-axis) & grinding.
• Proficiency with Siemens, Fanuc, & Heidenhain controllers.
• Advanced understanding of GD&T and its application in precision machining.
• Proven ability to troubleshoot and optimize machining processes across tooling, fixturing, and programming.
• Experience machining complex components in aluminum, steels, titanium, and nickel-based alloys (Inconel).
• Demonstrated experience with advanced setup techniques, including dynamic work offsets and multi-operation setups.
• Hands-on experience taking parts from first article through production.
• Ability to create clear setup documentation and standardized machining processes.
• Experience mentoring or leading other machinists on the shop floor.
• Ability to lawfully access information and technology that is subject to US export controls.

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with large-format or gantry-style machining systems.
• Experience machining additively manufactured components or hybrid workflows.
• Strong manual machining skills to support tooling, fixtures, and rework operations.
• Experience in high-rate production or rapid development environments with aggressive timelines.
• Experience in CAD/CAM software/environments (NX CAM preferred).
• Strong understanding of G-code.
• Experience with writing probing routines for on machine part inspections.

Work Environment

This role operates in a fast-paced, high-mix production environment where priorities can shift rapidly based on engineering changes, supply chain constraints, and program milestones. The environment demands tight cross-functional collaboration with engineering, manufacturing, quality, logistics, and program teams to ensure daily execution aligns with long-term build plans. Success in this environment requires hands-on engagement on the shop floor, strong systems knowledge, and the ability to anticipate and resolve scheduling risks before they impact key deliverables. The culture emphasizes proactive communication, data-driven decision making, and continuous improvement to meet aggressive program timelines while maintaining high standards for quality, safety, and efficiency.

Pay

Technician / T03: $45.00 – $54.00

Lead Technician / T04: $52.00 – $63.00

Senior Technician / T05: $60.00 – $72.00

Benefits

• Competitive salary, equity plan, and discretionary results-based incentive bonus opportunities.
• Paid vacation, sick time, and company holidays, including a year-end shutdown.
• Paid parental leave.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits, including HMO and Premium PPO options, company-sponsored life insurance, and short and long-term disability coverage.
• Reimbursement opportunities for learning and development initiatives.
• Collaborative, dynamic, and high-performing team within a mission-driven company.