CNC Lathe Operator, Setup

Durex Manufacturing; Cary (IL); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equal opportunity employer

Job summary

Durex Industries in Cary, IL is seeking a skilled CNC Set-Up Operator to master our turning centers and bring blueprints to life. You will load programs, set tooling, and verify parts against tight tolerances.

You’ll troubleshoot on the fly, document logs, mentor junior operators, and contribute to a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement on a fast-paced shop floor.

Qualifications

• Reads blueprints and engineering drawings accurately.
• Understands G-code and M-code for turning operations.
• Follows safety protocols and quality procedures.

Responsibilities

• Set up conventional and CNC turning centers based on blueprints.
• Load programs, select tooling, set offsets, and apply cutter compensation.
• Perform first-piece inspections and in-process checks with calipers and micrometers.
• Troubleshoot issues, adjust speeds/feeds, and replace worn tooling.
• Document work logs, sign-offs, and quality records for traceability.
• Mentor and train junior CNC operators on best practices and safety.

Skills

Blueprint reading

G-code interpretation

CNC operation

Measurement accuracy

Problem-solving

Independent working

Mentoring / leadership

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Calipers

Micrometers

Indicators

Edge finders

Job description

CNC Set-Up Operator – LatheAbout Durex IndustriesAt Durex Industries, an ISO 9001 registered manufacturer, we design and build custom thermal components that power critical systems across the globe. From heat and sensing to precision temperature control, our engineering and manufacturing excellence sets the industry standard. We are growing and looking for a skilled CNC Set-Up Operator to join our team, take ownership of our turning centers, and help bring complex blueprints to life.Why Join Us?Precision & Variety: You won't just push buttons. You will tackle complex setups, work with close tolerances, and produce high-quality, custom parts.Team Leadership: Share your expertise by mentoring and training operators as they grow their skills.Stability & Growth: Join an established, forward-thinking manufacturer dedicated to quality, safety, and continuous improvement.What You’ll Do (Responsibilities)Master the Setup: Prepare and configure conventional and close-tolerance CNC turning centers by analyzing blueprints, engineering drawings, and manuals.Precision Fabrication: Load programs, select and install proper tooling, set offsets, and adjust cutter compensation to ensure flawless part production.Quality & Verification: Use precision measuring instruments (calipers, micrometers, indicators) to perform first-piece inspections and operational checks, ensuring every part meets tight tolerances.Continuous Improvement: Troubleshoot issues, optimize speeds and feeds, change worn tooling, and adjust programs on the fly to maximize efficiency.Lead by Example: Document your work (logs, sign-offs, and quality records) and mentor CNC operators to maintain a safe, high-performing shop floor.What We’re Looking For (Skills & Experience)Technical Expertise: Strong proficiency reading blueprints and interpreting G-codes, cutter compensation, tapping cycles, and I & J circular interpolation.Machining Math: Confident calculating surface footage, feeds, and RPMs for various materials.Tooling Fluency: Hands-on experience using micrometers, calipers, indicators, and edge finders.Problem-Solving Mindset: A self-starter who works well independently, takes pride in craftsmanship, and understands how their individual decisions impact the wider team.Education: High School Diploma or GED preferred.Physical Requirements & ScheduleAbility to stand frequently, lift up to 30 pounds occasionally, and thrive in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.Availability to work 8–10 hour shifts during the week, with occasional 5-hour shifts on Saturdays as production schedules require.At Durex Industries, we are not just an employer but a champion of equal opportunities and inclusivity. We are dedicated to fostering a workplace that adheres to the highest hiring standards and is free from discrimination and harassment.Durex Industries is an equal opportunity employer; our commitment extends to all aspects of employment, ensuring that no individual is mistreated or discriminated against based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as defined by federal, state, or local laws.You should be proficient in:Equipment TroubleshootingCNC ToolingOSHA 10-Hour Certification (OSHA 10)G-CodeM-CodeCNC Machine Setup & ChangeoverMachine Setups for Production Runs