CNC Horizontal Milling Machinist - Lead, Mid- and Senior-Level Positions Available

Hirebridge; Connecticut; On-site; USD 36,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Hirebridge is seeking multiple experienced CNC Horizontal Milling Machinists to join a high‑precision manufacturing operation in the United States. Openings exist for Mid‑Level, Senior, and Lead Machinists, with pay depending on experience and skill.

The role centers on setting up and operating horizontal milling machines to produce tight‑tolerance parts. Ideal candidates read blueprints, apply GD&T, and perform independent setups.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; technical training or apprenticeship preferred.
• Experience reading blueprints and GD&T.
• Experience setting up and operating milling equipment.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting ability.
• Commitment to quality, safety, and detail.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC and/or manual horizontal milling machines.
• Perform independent setups for complex, high-precision machining operations.
• Install and align tooling, fixtures, and workpieces.
• Select tooling, speeds, feeds, and cutting parameters.
• Read and interpret blueprints, specifications, and GD&T.
• Inspect parts with precision measuring equipment and ensure tolerances.
• Troubleshoot machining, tooling, fixturing, and material issues.

Skills

Blueprint reading

GD&T

Precision measurement

Independent setup

Troubleshooting

Quality awareness

Team collaboration

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

CNC milling equipment

G-code programming

Job description

Salary: $26 - $40+ / hour, Competitive hourly pay based on experience and skill level
Job Type: Full-Time
Experience Levels: Mid-Level, Senior & Lead Opportunities

Job Description

We are seeking multiple experienced CNC Horizontal Milling Machinists to join a high-precision manufacturing operation. Opportunities are available for Mid-Level, Senior, and Lead Machinists, allowing experienced candidates to be considered at the level that best aligns with their machining expertise, setup capabilities, programming knowledge, and leadership experience.

These are hands-on machining positions focused on the setup and operation of horizontal milling equipment to manufacture complex, precision components. Candidates should have strong mechanical aptitude, blueprint reading skills, experience performing independent machine setups, and the ability to consistently produce parts within tight tolerances.

More experienced candidates may also be responsible for advanced process development, CNC programming and optimization, complex troubleshooting, first-article approval, and mentoring or leading other machinists.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC and/or manual horizontal milling machines
• Perform independent setups for complex, high-precision machining operations
• Install and align tooling, cutters, fixtures, and workpieces
• Select appropriate tooling, speeds, feeds, and cutting parameters
• Perform operations including slotting, straddle milling, keyways, splines, gears, heavy stock removal, and precision boring
• Read and interpret blueprints, specifications, work instructions, and GD&T
• Inspect parts using micrometers, calipers, height gauges, indicators, and other precision measuring equipment
• Make machining and tooling adjustments to maintain dimensional accuracy, surface finish, quality, and efficiency
• Troubleshoot machining, tooling, setup, fixturing, and material issues
• Complete required job documentation, travelers, and inspection records
• Perform routine preventive maintenance and maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area

Senior & Lead-Level Responsibilities May Include

• Develop, edit, and optimize CNC programs using G-code or conversational controls
• Plan machining sequences from print through production
• Design, build, modify, and troubleshoot fixtures and work-holding solutions
• Optimize machining processes to improve cycle time, quality, accuracy, and tool life
• Perform advanced troubleshooting of machining and process issues
• Validate setups and approve first-article parts prior to production
• Identify root causes of non-conformances and support corrective actions
• Work closely with Engineering and Quality to improve manufacturability and process reliability
• Mentor and train junior and mid-level machinists
• Provide technical guidance on setups, tooling, blueprint interpretation, and machining best practices
• Lead daily machining activities and help prioritize work and production requirements

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; technical training or apprenticeship preferred
• 3+ years of relevant horizontal milling experience
• Experience independently setting up and operating milling equipment
• Strong understanding of machining principles, tooling, speeds, feeds, and materials
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and GD&T
• Proficiency using precision measuring and inspection equipment
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting ability
• Ability to work independently while contributing to a team-oriented manufacturing environment
• Strong commitment to quality, safety, and attention to detail

Preferred Experience

• CNC horizontal milling experience
• G-code and/or conversational programming
• Complex machining and advanced setup experience
• Fixture and work-holding design or modification
• Aerospace, defense, tool & die, or other high-precision manufacturing experience
• Experience working within ISO, AS9100, or similar quality systems
• Previous mentoring, training, or hands-on leadership experience

Candidates do not need to meet every senior or lead-level qualification to be considered. Multiple opportunities are available, and candidates will be evaluated based on their individual experience and technical skill level.