CNC Lathe Machinists

Ultimate Staffing Services; Los Alamitos (CA); On-site; USD 34,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Ultimate Staffing Services seeks an experienced CNC Machinist II/III to set up and operate CNC lathes, inspect parts, and lead small teams. You will read blueprints, select tooling, and troubleshoot to meet tight tolerances while maintaining quality and safety standards.

The role requires strong setup experience, GD&T proficiency, and a commitment to continuous improvement. Competitive hourly pay with potential bonuses and growth opportunities in a machining environment.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of CNC machining and setup experience.
• Experience setting up and operating CNC lathe machines.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, GD&T, engineering drawings, and manufacturing specifications.
• Proficiency with precision measuring instruments and inspection methods.
• Strong understanding of tooling, feeds, speeds, metalworking practices, and close-tolerance machining.
• Knowledge of SPC and quality control processes.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• CAD/CAM experience preferred but not required.
• Previous team lead or supervisory experience

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC lathes according to blueprints, specifications, work instructions, and manufacturing orders.
• Select appropriate tooling, tool holders, fixtures, and materials for production.
• Prepare and stage tooling kits; modify tooling as required to meet specifications.
• Inspect parts using micrometers, calipers, comparators, gauges, and other precision measuring instruments.
• Perform first article, in-process, and final inspections to ensure quality standards are met.
• Monitor machine performance and replace or adjust worn cutting tools as needed.
• Troubleshoot setup, tooling, machining, and programming issues to improve productivity and quality.
• Conduct and document tool life studies and process improvement activities.
• Assist engineering, planning, and production teams with setup reduction and workflow optimization.
• Perform SPC checks and respond appropriately to process variations.
• Maintain accurate production documentation, pass-down logs, and shift communication.
• Identify machine malfunctions and coordinate corrective actions with maintenance and leadership.
• Prioritize workload while maintaining quality, productivity, and safety standards.
• Follow all operating procedures, work instructions, company policies, and HSE requirements.
• Support continuous improvement, waste reduction, and recycling initiatives.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Skills

CNC machining

Lathe setup

Blueprint reading

GD&T

Precision measurement

Troubleshooting

Process improvement

SPC knowledge

Team leadership

Independent work

Tools

CAD/CAM experience

Job description

Salary: USD25.9 - USD35.5 per hour

CNC Machinist II/III (CNC Lathe Setup Operator)

Compensation

$26.00 - $35.00 per hour, plus shift differential and bonus opportunities.

Position Summary

We are seeking experienced CNC Machinists II and III to join a growing manufacturing team. This position is responsible for setting up, operating, troubleshooting, and optimizing CNC lathe machines while producing precision components to specification. Ideal candidates possess strong setup experience, blueprint reading skills, proficiency with precision measuring tools, and a commitment to quality and safety. Machinist III candidates may also provide technical guidance and lead small teams.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC lathes according to blueprints, specifications, work instructions, and manufacturing orders.
• Select appropriate tooling, tool holders, fixtures, and materials for production.
• Prepare and stage tooling kits; modify tooling as required to meet specifications.
• Inspect parts using micrometers, calipers, comparators, gauges, and other precision measuring instruments.
• Perform first article, in-process, and final inspections to ensure quality standards are met.
• Monitor machine performance and replace or adjust worn cutting tools as needed.
• Troubleshoot setup, tooling, machining, and programming issues to improve productivity and quality.
• Conduct and document tool life studies and process improvement activities.
• Assist engineering, planning, and production teams with setup reduction and workflow optimization.
• Perform SPC checks and respond appropriately to process variations.
• Maintain accurate production documentation, pass-down logs, and shift communication.
• Identify machine malfunctions and coordinate corrective actions with maintenance and leadership.
• Prioritize workload while maintaining quality, productivity, and safety standards.
• Follow all operating procedures, work instructions, company policies, and HSE requirements.
• Support continuous improvement, waste reduction, and recycling initiatives.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Leadership Responsibilities (Machinist III)

• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to machinists and operators.
• Lead and coordinate the daily activities of 2-5 production employees.
• Support employee training and process improvement initiatives.
• Exercise independent judgment in troubleshooting and decision-making.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of CNC machining and setup experience in a manufacturing environment. (3 years for LVL II and 5 years for LVL III w/ ability to setup/troubleshoot as Lead for 2-3 others)
• Experience setting up and operating CNC lathe machines.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, GD&T, engineering drawings, and manufacturing specifications.
• Proficiency with precision measuring instruments and inspection methods.
• Strong understanding of tooling, feeds, speeds, metalworking practices, and close-tolerance machining.
• Knowledge of SPC and quality control processes.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• CAD/CAM experience preferred but not required.
• Previous team lead or supervisory experience