CNC Lathe Operator Level 2 - 2nd Shift

Precision Castparts; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Precision Castparts is seeking a Level II Machinist to operate 2-5 axis CNC/Automated cells and standalone machines in a high‑reliability aerospace environment. You will set up fixtures, load tools, and adjust CNC programs while maintaining tight tolerances per engineering drawings and GD&T callouts.

You will perform first‑piece inspections and use precision gauges to verify part dimensions, logs, and quality records, collaborating with Manufacturing, Quality, and Engineering to resolve issues.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3+ years in aerospace/automotive machining or related industry.
• Experience with reading engineering drawings and GD&T callouts.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing conforming parts.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC lathes to manufacture parts per drawings and work instructions.
• Load tooling, fixtures, and offsets; run established programs and adjust parameters within authorized limits.
• Perform first-piece and in-process inspections using calipers, micrometers, height gauges, and gauges.
• Identify and communicate nonconforming parts to supervisors or Quality personnel.
• Change tools and inserts as required; maintain safe, clean, and organized workstation.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing, Quality, and Engineering to resolve routine production issues.

Job description

Position Summary

Operate 2-5 axis CNC/Automated machine cells as well as standalone machines, which requires basic machine setup including preparing and setting up fixtures and cutting tools, as well as loading and adjusting CNC programs and offsets. Level two machinist competencies include the ability to use more advanced quality inspection tools and techniques such as height and air gauges and bench inspection. The level two machinist will have basic competencies in print reading and common CNC G and M codes. Typically, 2-4 years of experience.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC lathes to manufacture parts according to engineering drawings, specifications, routers, and work instructions.
• Perform simple machine setups, including loading tooling, installing fixtures or work holding, setting basic tool offsets, and loading material.
• Load and run established CNC programs.
• Make minor CNC program adjustments as necessary within authorized parameters, such as adjusting speeds, feeds, offsets, or other basic program values.
• Make tool and wear-offset adjustments to maintain part dimensions and compensate for normal tool wear.
• Monitor machine operation and identify basic machining issues, including tool wear, surface-finish problems, dimensional variation, or abnormal machine conditions.
• Perform first-piece and in-process inspections to verify parts meet drawing and specification requirements.
• Use precision measuring equipment such as calipers, micrometers, height gauges, bore gauges, pin gauges, and other inspection tools, as applicable.
• Read and interpret engineering drawings, basic GD&T callouts, dimensions, tolerances, and manufacturing instructions.
• Document inspection results and complete required production and quality records accurately.
• Identify and segregate nonconforming product and notify the appropriate supervisor or Quality personnel when parts do not meet requirements.
• Change cutting tools and inserts as required and make appropriate adjustments following tool changes.
• Maintain established production and quality standards while minimizing scrap and rework.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area.
• Perform basic machine care and routine operator-level maintenance as assigned.
• Follow all company safety, quality, and manufacturing procedures.
• Work collaboratively with Manufacturing, Quality, and Engineering personnel to resolve routine production issues.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Required Skills And Experience

• 3+ years minimum experience in aerospace/automotive machining or related industry. Familiarity with Fanuc, Haas, CELOS controllers. Preferred certifications in CNC operations.
• Experience working in an aerospace, defense, precision machining, or similarly regulated manufacturing environment
• Experience machining aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, nickel-based alloys, or other aerospace materials.
• Ability to distinguish between machine, tooling, material, and quality-related problems.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing conforming product.

Level Of Education

High school diploma/GED equivalent required.