Cnc Lathe Set Up Operator

Aerotek; Bethel (CT); On-site; USD 39,000 - 44,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage

Dental coverage

Vision coverage

401(k) Retirement Plan

Life Insurance

Disability insurance

Health Spending Account (HSA)

Transportation benefits

Paid time off (PTO)

Job summary

Aerotek in Bethel, CT is seeking a Lathe Setup Operator to prepare CNC and manual lathes for production. You will install tooling, verify programs, read blueprints, and perform first-piece inspections to ensure tight tolerances and quality.

The role involves standing for long periods, lifting up to 50 pounds, and collaborating with quality and engineering to improve processes. This is a contract-to-hire opportunity in a precision aerospace environment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• 3+ years lathe setup experience in manufacturing.
• Ability to set up CNC and/or manual lathes for production.
• Strong ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and blueprints.
• Proficiency using precision measuring equipment (micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, optical comparators, thread gauges).
• Solid understanding of machining principles, cutting tools, feeds, and speeds.
• Ability to perform mathematical calculations involving fractions, decimals, and tolerances.
• Mechanical aptitude with strong problem-solving skills.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and stand for extended periods.
• Comfort working in a manufacturing environment with aerospace-related work.

Responsibilities

• Set up and prepare CNC and manual lathes for production runs according to setup sheets and specifications.
• Install tooling, fixtures, chucks, and work-holding devices to support each job's requirements.
• Verify machine programs, offsets, and tool dimensions prior to starting production.
• Interpret blueprints, work instructions, and GD&T callouts to ensure correct part production.
• Perform first-piece inspections and adjust machine settings to ensure parts meet quality and dimensional standards.
• Monitor production operations and make tool wear offsets and other necessary adjustments to maintain consistent output.
• Use precision measuring instruments to verify part dimensions.
• Troubleshoot tooling, machine, and quality issues to minimize downtime and scrap.
• Complete required production documentation, inspection records, and related paperwork accurately and on time.
• Follow all company safety procedures and maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
• Collaborate with quality, engineering, and production teams to improve machining processes, efficiency, and overall product quality.

Skills

Lathe setup

Read drawings

Lathe operation

Precision measuring tools

GD&T knowledge

Physical lifting

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Mazak

Haas

Okuma

Similar equipment

Job description

Job Title: Lathe Setup Operator

Job Description

Responsibilities

• Set up and prepare CNC and manual lathes for production runs according to setup sheets and engineering specifications.
• Install tooling, fixtures, chucks, and work-holding devices to support each jobs requirements.
• Verify machine programs, offsets, and tool dimensions prior to starting production.
• Interpret blueprints, work instructions, GD&T callouts, and manufacturing drawings to ensure correct part production.
• Perform first-piece inspections and adjust machine settings to ensure parts meet quality and dimensional standards.
• Monitor production operations and make tool wear offsets and other necessary adjustments to maintain consistent output.
• Use precision measuring instruments such as micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, optical comparators, and thread gauges to verify part dimensions.
• Troubleshoot tooling, machine, and quality issues to minimize downtime and scrap.
• Complete required production documentation, inspection records, and related paperwork accurately and on time.
• Follow all company safety procedures and maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
• Collaborate with quality, engineering, and production teams to improve machining processes, efficiency, and overall product quality.

Essential Skills

• High school diploma or GED.
• At least 3 years of lathe setup experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Ability to set up CNC and/or manual lathes for production.
• Strong ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and blueprints.
• Proficiency using precision measuring equipment, including micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, optical comparators, and thread gauges.
• Solid understanding of machining principles, cutting tools, feeds, and speeds.
• Ability to perform mathematical calculations involving fractions, decimals, and tolerances.
• Mechanical aptitude with strong problem-solving skills.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and stand for extended periods.
• Ability to work safely around moving machinery and production equipment.
• Comfort working in a manufacturing environment with aerospace-related work.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience setting up CNC lathes such as Mazak, Haas, Okuma, or similar equipment.
• Knowledge of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Experience machining aerospace, defense, medical, or precision metal components.
• Familiarity with ISO quality standards and inspection procedures.
• Strong inspection skills and attention to detail.
• Demonstrated ability to contribute to process improvements in a manufacturing setting.
• Background or exposure to aerospace manufacturing environments.

Why Work Here?

You will join a growing manufacturing organization that is expanding and investing in its future. The company offers the opportunity to grow your career as it scales, with exposure to challenging and rewarding work supporting aerospace and military customers. You will work in an environment that values continuous improvement, steady workflow, and long-term stability, giving you the chance to develop your skills and advance alongside the business.

Work Environment

This role is based in a manufacturing facility focused on producing precision metal components, including work for aerospace and military customers. You will work around CNC and manual lathes, moving machinery, and production equipment, requiring frequent standing, walking, bending, and reaching. The position involves handling materials and tooling up to 50 pounds and working on the shop floor throughout the shift. The environment emphasizes safety, organization, and adherence to established procedures, with regular use of precision measuring tools and inspection equipment.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Bethel, CT.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $28.00 - $32.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your jobclassification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may besubject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefitsavailable for this temporary role may include the following:

Medical, dental & visionCritical Illness, Accident, and Hospital401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions availableLife Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)Short and long-term disabilityHealth Spending Account (HSA)Transportation benefitsEmployee Assistance ProgramTime Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Oct 28, 2026.

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Bethel,CT.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):

We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.