Live Tooling CNC Lathe Programmer/ Machinist

FERPA Precision Machine, Inc.; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 75,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Paid time off

Training & development

Wellness resources

Employee discounts

Competitive salary

Opportunity for advancement

Company parties

Job summary

FERPA Precision Machine, Inc. is seeking a CNC Lathe Machinist to join our production team in Houston, TX.

You will set up, operate, and monitor CNC lathes to manufacture high-precision aerospace components, reading blueprints, loading programs, and performing inspections to ensure tolerances are met. Responsibilities include programming with Mastercam, selecting tools, maintaining equipment, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to meet deadlines and quality standards in a safe,

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; vocational training preferred.
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in Mastercam programming for CNC Lathes.
• Minimum 5 years’ hands-on experience operating CNC Lathe machines.
• Experience turning metal components on CNC Lathes including 300 Series, Nitronic 6, PH stainless steels, Aluminum, Bronze, MP35N, Inconel.

Responsibilities

• Create CNC Lathe programs using Mastercam from blueprints, CAD models, and specs.
• Set up and operate CNC Lathe machines with precise loading and configuration.
• Interpret technical drawings and apply tolerances to guide machining.
• Perform detailed inspections with micrometers, calipers, and gauges.

Skills

Mastercam programming

CNC Lathe operation

Reading blueprints

G-code programming

Precision measurement

Troubleshooting

Shop math

Education

High school diploma

Machining training preferred

Tools

Mastercam

Calipers

Micrometers

Job description

About Us

Founded in 1990, FERPA Precision Machine, Inc. is a family-owned business with over 36 years of experience in outsourced manufacturing. We specialize in high-performance seals and components, offering innovative, reliable, and on-time solutions as a single-source machining provider. Our collaborative work environment values each team member’s contribution as we continue our tradition of manufacturing excellence. We look forward to partnering with you!

Benefits

• Company parties
• Competitive salary
• Dental insurance
• Employee discounts
• Health insurance
• Opportunity for advancement
• Paid time off
• Training & development
• Vision insurance
• Wellness resources

Position Summary

We’re looking for a CNC Lathe Machinist to join our production team. In this hands-on role, you’ll set up, operate, and monitor CNC lathes to produce high-precision parts that meet strict tolerances and quality standards. You’ll read blueprints, set machine parameters, load programs, and perform inspections to ensure parts meet specifications. The role also includes troubleshooting machine issues, maintaining equipment, and creating programs to manufacture aerospace components, while helping maintain a safe, organized shop environment.

Responsibilities

• Create efficient and accurate CNC Lathe programs using Mastercam based on blueprints, CAD models, and job specifications.
• Set up and operate CNC Lathe machines, ensuring precise material loading and accurate configuration for optimal machining performance.
• Configure tool registers and apply offsets/compensations as required by job specifications.
• Interpret and apply information from technical drawings to guide machining operations.
• Perform detailed inspections using micrometers, calipers, gauges, and other precision measuring instruments to verify part conformity.
• Confirm machine settings and verify compliance with established quality standards.
• Design and build custom fixtures to support efficient and precise CNC Lathe operations.
• Select appropriate cutting tools, machine settings, and work holdings, fixtures tailored to specific production requirements.
• Conduct routine maintenance and ensure machines are properly calibrated and in safe working condition.
• Troubleshoot and resolve mechanical or process issues related to the CNC Lathe machines.
• Adhere strictly to all safety procedures and guidelines when operating equipment and handling materials.
• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional team to achieve production deadlines and quality objectives.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient work area.
• Support additional tasks and job-related duties as assigned to meet business and production needs.

Job Requirements / Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent. Technical or vocational training in machining or a related field is preferred.
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in Mastercam programming for CNC Lathes.
• Minimum of 5 years of hands‑on experience operating CNC Lathe machines.
• Minimum 5 years of experience turning metal components on CNC Lathe machines including 300 Series, Nitronic 6, PH stainless steels (15‑5, 17‑4), Aluminum, Bronze, MP35N, Inconel.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong understanding of CNC G-code and M-code programming.
• Skilled in reading blueprints, technical drawings, and machining specs.
• Strong knowledge of metal machining properties, tooling, and cutting parameters.
• Proficient with precision measuring tools (micrometers, calipers, indicators, gauges).
• Experienced in interpreting tolerances, achieving surface finishes, and meeting quality standards.
• Able to work independently, troubleshoot issues, and maintain workflow.
• Solid grasp of shop math and mechanical concepts for CNC Lathes.
• Detail-oriented with strong time management and organizational skills.

Additional Preferred Qualifications

• AS9100 and ISO 9001 experience or familiarity is a plus.

Additional Requirements

• This position requires U.S. Person status as defined by applicable law for authorized access to data controlled under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). A U.S. Person includes U.S. Citizens, U.S. Nationals, lawful permanent residents, and workers granted refugee or asylum status in the United States.