CNC Machinist (Setup)

Frencken; Singapore; On-site; SGD 47,000 - 73,000; Full time

Job summary

Frencken Mechatronics in Singapore is seeking a skilled CNC Machine Setter/Technician to set up VMC/HMC, 5-axis mills and lathes, verify fixtures, and optimize toolpaths for quality and efficiency.

You will perform FAI, establish datum strategies, and troubleshoot on the line, while collaborating with CAM, process, and QA teams to ensure on-time production and adherence to safety standards.

Qualifications

• Completion of secondary education with a technical certificate in Precision Engineering/Mechanical; relevant certifications welcome.
• 3–5 years’ experience as a CNC Machine Setter/Technician in precision machining (VMC/HMC, 5‑axis, and/or lathe). Please state machine make and model.
• Proficiency with CNC controls (FANUC preferred; Siemens/Heidenhain advantageous) and basic program edits at machine. State controller types/versions.

Responsibilities

• Set up CNC VMC/HMC, 5-axis mills, and CNC lathes per setup sheets, drawings, and process plans.
• Prepare and verify workholding/fixtures and ensure proper clamping, clearance, and datum strategy.
• Select and preset cutting tools (length/radius), assign tool offsets, and validate tool paths; use offline tool presetters where applicable.
• Load and verify CNC programs; perform safe dry runs, single-block prove-outs, and collision checks.
• Establish and verify work coordinate systems (e.g., G54–G59), part datums, and probing cycles.
• Conduct First Article Inspection (FAI) and adjust offsets/parameters to achieve nominal dimensions and surface finish.
• Optimise feeds/speeds, stepovers, coolant delivery, and toolpaths for cycle time, tool life, and part quality.
• Document and communicate stable process parameters and critical steps to operators; ensure clean, safe handover.
• Troubleshoot setup and machining issues (chatter, runout, tool wear, dimensional drift) and perform root-cause containment on the line.
• Support quick changeovers and mixed-model scheduling; apply SMED principles to reduce setup time.
• Create/update setup sheets, tool lists, fixture maps, offsets, and control notes; maintain revision control.
• Record first-piece results, deviations, corrective actions, and sign-offs per quality and customer requirements.
• Maintain safety and 5S standards; comply with QMS and applicable WSH requirements.
• Partner with Manufacturing/Process Engineers, CAM Programmers, and Quality to enhance fixturing and tools; identify waste-reduction opportunities.
• Mentor and train operators on changeover and in-process control.

Skills

CNC controls

Blueprint reading

GD&T interpretation

First Article Inspection

Tooling knowledge

Workholding

Lean/Six Sigma awareness

SMED

Education

NITEC / Higher NITEC in Precision Engineering/Mechanical

Tools

FANUC

Siemens/Heidenhain

Mastercam

NX

Powermill

Fusion

Job description

Who are we?

Frencken Mechatronics is involved in the development and assembly of industrial systems or the semiconductor industry, the healthcare market, and a wide range of analytical applications. The high-quality precision mechanical parts, machine assemblies, and vacuum systems are assembled in both clean room and non-clean room environments. As a service provider, Frencken Mechatronics also produces high-quality precision components and modules for leading clients in the high-tech industry.

Key Responsibilities

Setup & Prove-Out

• Set up CNC VMC/HMC, 5-axis mills, and CNC lathes per setup sheets, drawings, and process plans.
• Prepare and verify workholding/fixtures (vises, tombstones, modular fixturing, chucks, soft jaws) and ensure proper clamping, clearance, and datum strategy.
• Select and preset cutting tools (length/radius), assign tool offsets, and validate tool paths; use offline tool presetters where applicable.
• Load and verify CNC programs; perform safe dry runs, single-block prove-outs, and collision checks (safe planes, clearance, toolpath simulation if available).
• Establish and verify work coordinate systems (e.g., G54–G59), part datums, and probing cycles (e.g., Renishaw) for in-process control.
• Conduct First Article Inspection (FAI) and adjust offsets/parameters to achieve nominal dimensions and surface finish.
• Optimise feeds/speeds, stepovers, coolant delivery, and toolpaths for cycle time, tool life, and part quality.

Handover & Production Support

• Document and communicate stable process parameters and critical steps to operators; ensure a clean, safe, and organised handover.
• Troubleshoot setup and machining issues (chatter, runout, tool wear, dimensional drift) and perform root-cause containment on the line.
• Support quick changeovers and mixed-model scheduling; apply SMED principles to reduce setup time.

Quality & Documentation

• Create/update setup sheets, tool lists, fixture maps, offsets, and control notes; maintain revision control and DNC/program records.
• Record first-piece results, deviations, corrective actions, and sign-offs per quality and customer requirements.

Maintenance, Safety & Compliance

• Perform routine cleaning, basic preventive maintenance, and condition checks on spindles, chucks, fixtures, coolant, and air supply.
• Adhere to all safety protocols (PPE, machine guarding, LOTO, safe lifting/rigging) and 5S standards; report hazards promptly.
• Comply with company QMS and applicable WSH requirements.

Continuous Improvement & Collaboration

• Partner with Manufacturing/Process Engineers, CAM Programmers, and Quality to enhance fixturing, tool strategies, and programs.
• Identify and execute waste-reduction opportunities (setup time, scrap, rework, tool cost) using lean methods (5S, Kaizen, SMED).
• Mentor and train operators on best practices for changeover and in-process control.

Qualifications

Must-Have

• Secondary school education, NITEC / Higher NITEC, or relevant technical certificate in Precision Engineering/Mechanical.
• 3–5 years’ experience as a CNC Machine Setter/Technician in precision machining (VMC/HMC, 5‑axis, and/or lathe). Please state machine make and model
• Proficient with CNC controls (e.g., FANUC preferred; Siemens/Heidenhain an advantage) and basic program edits at machine. Please state controller type and versions.
• Strong blueprint reading and GD&T interpretation; capable of establishing datum strategies for multi-op parts.
• Skilled with metrology tools and first-article checks; able to diagnose and correct dimensional variation.
• Hands‑on knowledge of tooling, workholding, probing cycles, offsets, and coolant strategies across common materials (aluminium, stainless, tool steels; nickel/titanium alloys advantageous).
• High attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, and a strong commitment to safety and quality.

Nice-to-Have

• Exposure to CAM (Mastercam, NX, Powermill, Fusion) .
• Experience with SMED/quick-change fixtures and modular fixturing systems.
• Understanding of OEE, first-pass yield, tool life management, and basic lean/Six Sigma methods.
• Crane/rigging competency or certification for safe handling of heavy fixtures (if applicable).

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Setup time reduction / changeover duration (SMED).
• First-pass yield and first-article approval rate.
• Scrap/rework rate and dimensional capability on CTQ features.
• Tool life adherence and cost per part.
• 5S audit scores, safety compliance, and near-miss reporting quality.
• Documentation accuracy and revision adherence (setup sheets, programs, offsets).

Additional Information

Work Environment: Temperature- and humidity-controlled precision machining environment.

Physical Requirements: Ability to lift and position fixtures and tooling safely (with mechanical aids where required), stand/walk for extended periods, and handle precision components with care.

Work Schedule: Shift and overtime flexibility as needed to support changeovers and urgent setups.

Reports To: Production Supervisor / Manufacturing Engineer (as applicable).

What do we offer?

Frencken is characterized by an informal and collegial atmosphere where every individual is important. We ensure that you feel at home with us quickly. You will work in a fascinating, challenging high-tech company, within a team of colleagues who are just as passionate as you are.

We reward that passion with a good salary, excellent employment conditions and plenty of opportunities for further development.