5-Axis CNC Operator

Superior Skilled Trades; Florence (AL); On-site; USD 65,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

PTO

Job summary

Superior Skilled Trades is seeking a highly skilled 5-axis CNC Operator / Setup Technician for a direct hire in Hebron, KY. The role focuses on setting up and operating Makino 5-axis centers and mill-turn lathes to produce complex aerospace components.

You will read blueprints, apply GD&T, and collaborate with engineering on prove-outs. Strong attention to detail and mentoring abilities are essential for success in this high-performance environment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED is required.
• 3+ years of CNC machining experience, including 5-axis setup.
• Experience reading blueprints and GD&T; precision tolerance work.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate 5-axis CNC machines (Makino) and mill-turn lathes.
• Read blueprints, CAD models, and GD&T to plan setups.
• Install tooling, fixtures, and adjust offsets.
• Machine aerospace parts to tight tolerances.
• Perform in-process and final inspections.
• Troubleshoot machining and performance issues.
• Support new program prove-outs with engineering.
• Maintain setup documentation and inspection records.
• Follow safety, quality, and aerospace standards.

Skills

Strong mechanical aptitude

Problem-solving

Attention to detail

Complex setups

Team-oriented with mentoring

Reliability and accountability

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

G-code knowledge

Live tooling / mill-turn lathes

Makino 5-axis machining centers

Job description

DIRECT HIRE: We are seeking a highly skilled 5-Axis CNC Operator / Setup Technician with a strong background in aerospace machining and precision manufacturing. This role is responsible for independently setting up and operating advanced CNC equipment, including Makino 5-axis machining centers and mill-turn lathes, to produce complex, tight-tolerance components.

The ideal candidate brings a deep understanding of machining processes, tooling strategies, and GD&T, with the ability to take a job from setup through final inspection. This position plays a critical role in ensuring production efficiency, part quality, and continuous improvement, while also supporting program prove-outs and mentoring less experienced operators. A strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and team-first mindset are essential for success in this high-performance environment.

Working Location: Hebron, KY.
Pay: $65K - $70K (depending on experience)
Shift: 1st shift, M - F (up to 10 hours per day)
Benefits: Medical, dental, vision,PTO

Key Responsibilities:

• Set up and operate 5-axis CNC machines (Makino) and mill-turn lathes
• Read blueprints, CAD models, and GD&T to plan setups
• Install tooling, fixtures, and adjust offsets
• Machine complex aerospace parts to tight tolerances
• Perform in-process and final inspections
• Troubleshoot machining and performance issues
• Support new program prove-outs with engineering
• Maintain setup documentation and inspection records
• Follow safety, quality, and aerospace standards

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED
• 3+ years CNC machining (including 5-axis setup)
• Experience with live tooling / mill-turn lathes
• Strong blueprint reading + GD&T knowledge
• Experience holding tight tolerances
• Proficient with precision measuring tools

Preferred:

• Aerospace manufacturing experience
• Makino 5-axis experience
• Multi-axis / complex setups
• Basic G-code knowledge
• Lean / 5S exposure

Key Skills:

• Strong mechanical aptitude & problem-solving
• High attention to detail
• Ability to execute complex setups
• Team-oriented with mentoring ability
• Reliable, accountable, and quality-driven

Work Environment

• Aerospace machining shop (high-precision, fast-paced)
• Standing, lifting, and machine operation required
• Overtime as needed
• Culture: teamwork, ownership, continuous improvement