CNC Lathe Operator & Setup

Astforge; Oxnard (CA); On-site; USD 48,216 - 68,880; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance

401(k) Savings Plan

Company-Sponsored Life Insurance

Short-term and Long-term Disability

Paid Holidays

Paid Vacation and Sick Leave

Job summary

AST is seeking a skilled CNC Lathe Operator & Setup in Oxnard, CA, to own complete setups from blueprint to first article on aerospace components. This hands-on role rewards precision, problem-solving, and hands-on improvements in a high-mix, low-volume environment.

Reading detailed drawings, GD&T, and working with Fanuc controls, you will select tooling, edit programs, verify dimensions, and collaborate with engineering and QA to push cycle times and quality.

Qualifications

• 5+ years in CNC lathe setups in precision manufacturing.
• Proficient with Fanuc controls and G-code.
• Ability to read complex drawings and GD&T.
• Experience in aerospace/defense or high-precision industries preferred.

Responsibilities

• Own complete CNC lathe setups from blueprint to first article.
• Read drawings and GD&T to determine the best approach for each job.
• Select tooling, workholding, and machining strategies for high‑precision turning operations.
• Edit and optimize CNC programs to improve cycle time, surface finish, and tool life.
• Verify part dimensions using precision measuring instruments and ensure tight tolerances.
• Diagnose and resolve machining issues, tool wear, and setup inconsistencies.
• Maintain accurate setup sheets, tool lists, and inspection records.
• Collaborate with engineering, programming, and quality teams to refine processes.

Skills

CNC lathe setup and run

Fanuc controls

G-code editing/writing

GD&T reading

High-precision turning

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Technical training or apprenticeship (preferred)

Tools

Live tooling

Multi-axis lathe

Job description

We are looking for a CNC Lathe Operator & Setup who takes pride in their craft and wants to work on parts that matter. This is a hands‑on, high‑mix, low‑volume environment where every job is different, and the bar for precision is high. You will own your setups from start to finish—reading the print, selecting tooling, dialing in the program, and walking the first article over to QA with confidence.

This is not a button‑pushing position. We need a machinist who can think through a tough setup, troubleshoot when something is not running right, and bring ideas to the table for how to make the process better. If you are the person other machinists ask for help, we want to talk to you.

What Sets This Role Apart

• You will machine parts for the leading names in commercial space and defense—work you can point to and be proud of
• High‑mix, low‑volume environment means constant variety; you will not be running the same part for months on end
• Modern facility with continued investment in equipment and infrastructure (newest expansion completed in 2024)
• Direct access to engineering and production leadership—your input on process improvements is heard and acted on
• Long‑term career growth in a stable, expanding aerospace manufacturer

Key Responsibilities

• Own complete CNC lathe setups from blueprint to first article approval on complex aerospace components
• Read and interpret detailed engineering drawings and GD&T to determine the best approach for each job
• Select tooling, workholding, and machining strategies for high‑precision turning operations
• Edit and optimize CNC programs at the machine to improve cycle time, surface finish, and tool life
• Verify part dimensions using precision measuring instruments (calipers, micrometers, indicators, etc.) and ensure compliance with tight tolerances
• Diagnose and resolve machining issues, tool wear, and setup inconsistencies before they impact quality or schedule
• Maintain accurate setup sheets, tool lists, and inspection records to support repeatability
• Collaborate with engineering, programming, and quality teams to refine processes and reduce cycle times

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience setting up and running CNC lathes in a precision manufacturing environment
• Strong proficiency with Fanuc controls; experience with live tooling or multi‑axis lathes is a plus
• Ability to read, edit, and write G‑code at the machine
• Deep understanding of turning processes, speeds and feeds, tool selection, and workholding strategy
• Ability to read and interpret complex mechanical drawings and GD&T
• Experience machining tight‑tolerance parts in aerospace, defense, medical, or other high‑precision industries strongly preferred
• Experience with high‑mix, low‑volume or short‑run production environments
• Strong attention to detail, problem‑solving ability, and a commitment to quality workmanship
• Ability to lift up to 45 lbs and stand for extended periods
• High school diploma or equivalent required; technical training, apprenticeship, or trade school background a plus

Why Join AST?

At AST, we believe in fostering a work environment where employees can thrive both personally and professionally. We offer a competitive benefits package, including:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 401(k) Savings Plan
• Company‑Sponsored Life Insurance
• Short‑term and Long‑term Disability Coverage
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Vacation and Sick Leave

Job Type & Pay

• Job Type: Full‑Time, In‑Person
• Pay Range: $35.00 – $50.00 per hour (commensurate with experience)
• Schedule: Monday – Friday (8‑hour shift)
• Expected Hours: 40+ hours per week (plus overtime as needed)

If you are a CNC Lathe Operator & Setup who wants to work on aerospace hardware that flies, contribute to a growing team, and take pride in the parts you build, we want to hear from you. Apply today and join the AST team.