CNC Lathe Set-Up/Operator

Gilder Search Group; Akron (OH); On-site; USD 39,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Gilder Search Group is seeking a CNC Machinist — Lathe Operator in Akron, OH. The role requires independent setup and operation of CNC turning centers and lathes, reading complex drawings, and maintaining tight tolerances while producing parts to print.

You will edit programs, manage tool offsets, and ensure repeatable processes with detailed setup sheets. This on-site position emphasizes safety, quality, and proactive problem solving.

Qualifications

• Experience setting up and operating CNC turning centers and lathes independently.
• Tight tolerances to +/- .001 inches on complex components.
• Read and translate blueprints and GD&T symbols into efficient setups.
• Proficient editing programs and adjusting work offsets on CNC lathes.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC turning centers and lathes including mounting jaws and dialing in fixtures.
• Read engineering drawings, job packets, routings, and GD&T specs to execute precise setups.
• Run production to print while monitoring tool wear, chatter, and surface finish.
• Select, build, and maintain turning tooling and live tool holders to manage tool life.
• Edit program feeds, speeds, and offsets on FANUC or Nakamura controls to resolve issues.
• Machine parts across metals including carbon steel, stainless steel, bronze, copper alloys.
• Inspect in-process parts with micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, and indicators.
• Segregate nonconforming material and assist quality with root-cause troubleshooting.
• Maintain setup sheets, tooling lists, and offset records for repeatable processes.
• Perform daily operator preventive maintenance and 5S housekeeping.

Skills

CNC turning centers

CNC lathes

GD&T interpretation

Blueprint reading

Precision measurement

Tooling selection

Safety discipline

Communication skills

Overhead crane operation

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

FANUC control

Nakamura control

Job description

CNC Machinist — Lathe Operator

Shift: 1st shift

Salary: $28.00 – $35.00 per hour

Who we are

We are a growing regional precision manufacturing facility providing specialized machined components and assemblies for demanding industrial platform operating out of Akron, OH.

CNC Machinist — Lathe Operator Role

This role exists to independently set up, operate, and inspect close-tolerance parts on CNC turning centers and lathes without direct supervision. Additionally, this position focuses on creating repeatable process documentation, such as setup sheets and tooling lists, to support scaling operations.

CNC Machinist — Lathe Operator Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC turning centers and lathes including mounting jaws, dialing in fixtures, setting tool offsets, loading programs, and proving out first-piece parts
• Read and interpret complex engineering drawings, job packets, routings, and GD&T specifications to execute precise setups
• Run production to print while actively monitoring tool wear, chatter, surface finish, chip control, and coolant conditions
• Select, build, and maintain turning and boring tooling, inserts, holders, and live tool holders to manage tool life
• Edit program feeds, speeds, and offsets directly at the FANUC and Nakamura controls to resolve minor process issues
• Machine parts across a variety of metals including carbon steel, stainless steel, bronze, copper alloys, and bearing materials
• Inspect in-process and first-piece parts using precision instruments such as micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, and indicators
• Segregate nonconforming material immediately and assist quality personnel with root-cause troubleshooting
• Maintain detailed setup sheets, tooling lists, and offset records to ensure all shop floor processes are fully repeatable
• Perform routine daily operator preventive maintenance, chip clearing, 5S area upkeep, and safe overhead crane rigging

CNC Machinist — Lathe Operator Reporting Relationships

This position reports directly to the Shop Supervisor and has no direct reports.

About You

• Possess proven experience setting up and operating CNC turning centers and lathes independently in a precision machining environment
• Hold tight machining tolerances down to +/- .001 inches on complex industrial components
• Read and translate engineering blueprints, technical drawings, and GD&T symbols into efficient setups
• Demonstrate proficiency editing programs and adjusting work offsets on FANUC or comparable CNC lathe controls
• Exhibit hands-on expertise with turning workholding equipment including power chucks, soft jaws, collets, and steady rests
• Perform detailed quality checks using manual inspection tools like micrometers, calipers, height gauges, and depth gauges
• Display strong knowledge of tooling selection, speeds, feeds, and material behavior across ferrous and non-ferrous alloys
• Rig and handle workpieces, chucks, and tooling up to 35 lbs safely, utilizing overhead cranes for heavier items
• Maintain high safety discipline, strong communication skills, and a habit of surfacing potential setup issues early
• Hold a High School Diploma or equivalent GED qualification

Additional Information

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Physical Demands & Working Conditions

This position operates on-site in a machine shop environment. It requires standing and walking for extended periods, frequent lifting and handling of parts up to 35 lbs, and operating overhead cranes for larger components. Work involves exposure to machinery, noise, metal chips, coolants, and lubricants. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is required at all times on the shop floor. Overtime may be required based on schedule demand.

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