CNC Lathe Machine Setup Operator

SCHUNK; Morrisville (NC); On-site; USD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

SCHUNK is seeking a CNC Lathe Setup Operator for the 2nd shift (M-TH, 2:45pm–1:20am) in Morrisville, NC. The role focuses on setting up, operating, and optimizing CNC lathes to produce precision workholding and tooling components.

You will prepare jobs from drawings and programs, select tooling, and monitor quality with in-process inspections. Collaboration with programmers and machinists is essential to maximize efficiency and minimize scrap.

Qualifications

• Requires high school diploma or equivalent and CNC turning experience.
• Able to read engineering drawings and GD&T callouts.
• Experience editing CNC data, adjusting offsets, and troubleshooting processes.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC lathes with bar feeders.
• Configure bar feeders for safe, efficient production.
• Load programs, set tooling, adjust offsets, and modify machine parameters.

Skills

CNC turning

Blueprint reading

GD&T interpretation

Measurement & metrology

Troubleshooting

Quality focus

Safety & compliance

Education

High school diploma

Machining tech cert/assoc degree

Tools

Okuma lathes

Precision measuring tools

Job description

CNC Lathe Setup Operator

2nd shift - M-TH 2:45pm - 1:20am

At SCHUNK, we drive innovation in automation, clamping technology, and precision engineering worldwide. We have a burning passion for everything that has anything to do with technology! We are fascinated by the way it will change the world of tomorrow. Based on this understanding, we are developing the solutions for today and tomorrow. SCHUNK products stand for quality. Our products are built on all of the expertise and experience we have amassed for generations. Our goal is to get a little bit better every single day as a team.

Primary Purpose of the CNC Lathe Machine Setup Operator

The CNC Lathe Machine Setup Operator independently sets up, operates, and optimizes CNC turning centers with bar feeders to manufacture SCHUNK's precision workholding and tooling products. Working in a modern, climate-controlled production environment, this role is responsible for preparing jobs from technical drawings and established programs, selecting tooling, setting machine parameters, and ensuring consistent production of high-quality components.

Success in this role requires strong machining knowledge, attention to detail, and a commitment to quality. The CNC Lathe Machine Setup Operator takes ownership of machine performance, process improvements, troubleshooting, and in-process inspections while collaborating with programmers, supervisors, and fellow machinists to maximize efficiency and minimize scrap.

What You Will Do

• Independently set up and operate CNC lathes using technical drawings, work instructions, and existing CNC programs.
• Configure and monitor bar feeders to ensure safe, efficient, and uninterrupted production.
• Load programs, set tooling, adjust offsets, and make machine parameter changes as required to maintain part quality.
• Support new product introductions and prove-outs by assisting with test runs and validating machine setups.
• Perform in-process and final inspections using precision measuring equipment to verify conformance to specifications.
• Analyze machining performance and make adjustments to improve cycle times, consistency, and product quality.
• Troubleshoot machine, tooling, program, and process issues to minimize downtime and scrap.
• Maintain organized tooling, workholding, gauges, and raw material inventory at the machine.
• Perform routine machine maintenance and report repair needs to ensure equipment reliability.
• Complete production and quality documentation accurately and communicate issues proactively.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, delivery, and productivity.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum three years of CNC turning experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Proven ability to independently set up and operate CNC lathes.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, GD&T callouts, dimensions, and tolerances.
• Experience adjusting offsets, editing CNC data, and troubleshooting machining processes.
• Proficiency using precision measurement equipment including micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, and indicators.
• Working knowledge of machining mathematics, geometry, feeds and speeds, and material characteristics.
• Strong problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills.
• Commitment to workplace safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

Preferred Qualifications

• Technical certification or Associate Degree in Machining Technology or a related field.
• Experience with Okuma CNC lathes and controls.
• Experience machining high-precision, thin-walled components while controlling distortion and maintaining tight tolerances.
• Experience with bar-fed production environments and lights-out manufacturing practices.
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing and continuous improvement principles.