CNC Lathe Operator - (Swing Shift - M-Th, 3:15pm-1:45am)

RTCA; Fife (WA); On-site; USD 28,000 - 41,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) with company match

Paid time off and holidays

Job summary

RTCA is seeking a CNC Machinist I-III to produce precision aerospace and defense components at our Fife, WA facility. You will perform CNC setups (Mill/Lathe/Swiss), select tooling, load programs, read blueprints and verify part conformance.

You’ll work with Quality and Engineering to optimize processes and drive continuous improvement, while mentoring less experienced machinists. The role emphasizes on-site, swing shift operations with a focus on safety, quality, and teamwork.

Qualifications

• Experience performing CNC (Mill/Lathe/Swiss) setups on multi-axis machining equipment (3-, 4-, and 5-axis).
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and GD&T requirements.
• Experience using precision measuring instruments (micrometers, calipers, indicators, height gauges).
• Strong understanding of machining fundamentals, tooling, feeds, speeds, and offsets.
• Ability to troubleshoot complex machining issues and optimize strategies.
• Mechanical aptitude with attention to detail and commitment to quality.

Responsibilities

• Perform CNC setups across multiple machines and platforms with accuracy.
• Read blueprints and setup sheets; verify tolerances and process capabilities.
• Select tooling, load programs, and support workholding and setup activities.
• Collaborate with Engineering on tooling improvements and new product introductions.
• Support continuous improvement and lean manufacturing initiatives.
• Provide guidance to less experienced machinists and operators.
• Maintain clean, safe, and organized work area.

Skills

CNC Machining

Blueprints & GD&T

Measuring tools

Troubleshooting

Teamwork & communication

Lean manufacturing

Tools

Fanuc

Haas

Mazak

Siemens

Mastercam

Fusion 360

ESPRIT

Job description

RTCA is a precision aerospace and defense manufacturing group built on decades of hands‑on machining expertise, with roots spanning more than 50 years. We support mission‑critical commercial and government aerospace programs across North America through four U.S. Centers of Excellence operating as an integrated platform with 150+ CNC machines and a team of 250+ professionals.

Unlike large organizations where roles can be narrow, RTCA offers hands‑on ownership and real visibility – you understand how your work supports the team, the operation, and the end customer. Our flat structure allows employees to take initiative, grow their skills, and have their contributions recognized, while still providing the stability, advanced technology, and meaningful work of an established aerospace manufacturer.

At RTCA, we believe in teamwork, excellence, and delivering with pride. One Team! One Mission!

How You’ll Make an Impact:

As a Machinist at RTCA, you will play a key role in producing precision aerospace and defense components by performing CNC (Mill/Lathe/Swiss) setups, selecting tooling, loading programs, and ensuring parts meet engineering and quality specifications. As you grow in this role, you will take on increasingly complex setups and machining challenges, working closely with Quality and Engineering teams to drive process optimization, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement across manufacturing operations.

What you’ll be doing as a CNC Machinist I-III:

• Working afull-time, onsiteposition at our Fife, WA location. SWING SHIFT
• Perform CNC setups, including complex and first-run setups across multiple machines and machine platforms.
• Select tooling, load programs, and support workholding and setup activities.
• Read and interpret blueprints, setup sheets, travelers, engineering drawings, and specifications.
• Use precision measuring instruments to verify part conformance and maintain accurate quality documentation.
• Optimize machining processes and troubleshoot machining, tooling, and production issues to minimize downtime and scrap.
• Collaborate with Engineering on tooling improvements, fixture development, and new product introductions.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and lean manufacturing activities.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to less experienced machinists and operators.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Follow all company safety, quality, and aerospace manufacturing procedures and standards.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications (Education, skills and experience):

• Experience performing CNC (Mill/Lathe/Swiss) setups on multi-axis machining equipment (3-, 4-, and 5-axis) in a manufacturing environment.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and GD&T requirements.
• Experience using precision measuring instruments including micrometers, calipers, indicators, and height gauges.
• Strong understanding of machining fundamentals, tooling, feeds, speeds, and offsets.
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot complex machining issues and optimize machining strategies.
• Mechanical aptitude with strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Strong math, problem‑solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Ability to provide technical guidance and mentorship to less experienced machinists and operators.
• Commitment to workplace safety and maintaining a clean work environment.

Preferred Qualifications (Education, skills and experience):

• Aerospace or defense manufacturing experience.
• Familiarity with Fanuc, Haas, Mazak, Siemens, or similar CNC controls.
• Experience with CAM software such as Mastercam, Fusion 360, or ESPRIT.
• Knowledge of AS9100 quality standards and in-process inspection techniques.
• Experience with lean manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Basic CNC programming or G-code editing experience.
• Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems and production tracking tools.

Compensation and Benefits:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• Choice of medical plan options, including a no-cost employee-only coverage plan
• HSA-eligible health plan with employer contributions
• Basic and supplemental life insurance
• Long-term disability coverage
• 401(k) plan with up to a 6% QACA company match
• Paid time off including vacation, sick time, and nine (9) paid company holidays
• Shift differentials for applicable off-shifts
• Discretionary bonus programs based on position and company performance

CNC Machinist Compensation rangefor onsite Washington applicants is $20-30 per hour commensurate with experience. Some shifts may include shift differential pay rates. Other site ranges may differ.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

This position must meet Export Control compliance requirements, therefore a “US Person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.15 is required.

RTCA is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Applicants wishing to receive information on RTCA’s Affi… 

Candidates will receive consideration without discrimination in accordance with Article 9, Chapter XVIII of the City of Los Angeles Municipal Code and applicable federal, state, and local laws.