CNC Lathe Machinist – Aerospace Precision & Setup

Kadon Precision Machining; Rockford (IL); On-site; USD 55,000 - 82,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Company-paid life insurance

401(k) with company match

Paid holidays

Paid time off

Career advancement opportunities

Ongoing training and professional dev

Job summary

Kadon Aerospace in Rockford, IL is seeking a highly skilled High Precision CNC Lathe Machinist to join our aerospace manufacturing team. You will set up and operate Hardinge CNC lathes, read drawings, and ensure parts meet strict tolerances in an AS9100 environment.

The ideal candidate is detail‑oriented, quality‑driven, and experienced with GD&T, tooling selection, and process optimization. This full‑time role offers competitive pay and benefits.

Qualifications

• Experience setting up and operating CNC lathes in a precision manufacturing environment.
• Experience with Hardinge, Fanuc, and/or GT CNC controls is a plus.
• Ability to independently perform complete machine setups is preferred.
• Blueprint reading experience.
• Understanding of GD&T.
• Experience maintaining tight tolerances.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem‐solving skills.
• Aerospace manufacturing experience is a plus.
• Experience working in an AS9100 environment is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Perform complete machine setups on Hardinge CNC lathes.
• Select, install, and adjust tooling, jaws, collets, fixtures, and work holding devices.
• Touch off tooling and establish accurate work offsets.
• Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, process sheets, and customer specifications.
• Interpret and apply Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Make program edits and offset adjustments to maintain quality and optimize production.
• Perform first‑piece, in‑process, and final inspections using precision measuring equipment.
• Troubleshoot machining issues including tooling, surface finish, size variation, taper, concentricity, and setup concerns.
• Consistently maintain tolerances.
• Complete required inspection and production documentation.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
• Follow all AS9100 quality procedures and company safety policies.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and assist with other duties as assigned.

Skills

CNC lathe setup

CNC lathe operation

GD&T

Blueprint reading

Troubleshooting

Quality focus

Tools

Hardinge CNC controls

Fanuc controls

GT controls

Job description

Kadon Aerospace in Rockford, IL is seeking a highly skilled High Precision CNC Lathe Machinist to join our aerospace manufacturing team. You will set up and operate Hardinge CNC lathes, read drawings, and ensure parts meet strict tolerances in an AS9100 environment.

The ideal candidate is detail‑oriented, quality‑driven, and experienced with GD&T, tooling selection, and process optimization. This full‑time role offers competitive pay and benefits.