CNC Lathe Setup Expert – Multi‑Axis & Fast Changeovers

Vanderhorst Brothers, Inc.; Fife, Northern (WA, KY); Hybrid; USD 34,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

HSA-eligible health plan

Life insurance

Long-term disability

401(k) plan with company match

Paid time off and holidays

Shift differentials

Discretionary bonus programs

Job summary

RTCA is a precision aerospace and defense manufacturer with 150+ CNC machines and a team of 250+ professionals. We are seeking a CNC Multi-Axis Lathe Setup Specialist to set up and prove out multi-axis lathes, optimize changeovers, and collaborate with programmers on toolpaths and processes in our Sumner or Fife locations.

The role requires 5+ years in CNC lathe setup, strong G-code knowledge, GD&T, and a track record of reducing setup times through SMED and quick-change tooling.

Qualifications

• 5+ years CNC lathe setup experience, including 2+ years on multi-axis mill-turn machines.
• Strong G-code and machine control; familiarity with Fanuc, Mazatrol or OSP.
• Solid blueprint reading and GD&T; hands-on use of mics, bore gauges, height gauges and thread gauges.
• Track record of reducing setup time with SMED, quick-change tooling or standardized setups.
• Ownership mindset; treat every setup as your signature.

Responsibilities

• Set up and prove out multi-axis CNC lathes at Sumner or Fife locations.
• Own changeovers using SMED to reduce downtime and standardize setups.
• Build and maintain quick-change tooling and preset tool kits and setup sheets.
• Collaborate with CNC programmers and process engineers on toolpaths and cycle-time reduction.
• Ensure tight tolerances on aerospace alloys and perform first-article inspection.
• Troubleshoot chatter, tool life, and dimensional issues; identify root causes.
• Train and mentor operators on setups, offsets, inspection, and safe operation.
• Drive 5S and continuous improvement in the lathe cell.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

CNC lathe setup

G-code & control

GD&T

Blueprint reading

SMED / quick-change tooling

Ownership

Tools

Mastercam

Esprit

NX

Job description

RTCA is a precision aerospace and defense manufacturer with 150+ CNC machines and a team of 250+ professionals. We are seeking a CNC Multi-Axis Lathe Setup Specialist to set up and prove out multi-axis lathes, optimize changeovers, and collaborate with programmers on toolpaths and processes in our Sumner or Fife locations.

The role requires 5+ years in CNC lathe setup, strong G-code knowledge, GD&T, and a track record of reducing setup times through SMED and quick-change tooling.