5-Axis CNC Operator

SST Direct; Hebron Estates (KY); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A precision manufacturing company located in Hebron, KY, is seeking a skilled 5-Axis CNC Operator / Setup Technician with aerospace machining experience. The candidate will set up and operate advanced CNC equipment, ensuring production efficiency and part quality. Responsibilities include reading blueprints, performing inspections, and mentoring junior operators. A strong background in CNC machining, attention to detail, and mechanical aptitude are vital for success in this demanding environment.

Qualifications

• 3+ years CNC machining experience including 5-axis setup.
• Experience with live tooling and multi-axis setups.
• Strong blueprint reading skills and GD&T knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate 5-axis CNC machines and mill-turn lathes.
• Read blueprints and plan machining setups.
• Perform inspections and troubleshoot issues.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Attention to detail

Problem-solving

Ability to execute complex setups

Team-oriented with mentoring ability

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

5-axis CNC machines

Mill-turn lathes

Precision measuring tools

Job description

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.

Location: Hebron, KY

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
• Mentor junior operators

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