CNC Lathe Setup Machinist, 1st and 2nd Shift

gpac; Bay City (MI); On-site; USD 33,000 - 47,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Shift differential

Benefits package

401(k) with company match

Paid time off

Paid holidays

Job summary

gpac in Michigan is seeking an experienced CNC Lathe Setup Machinist for 1st and 2nd shifts in a low-volume, custom components shop. You will take projects from technical blueprints through to finished parts, with emphasis on precision and reliability.

Responsibilities include setting up and operating CNC lathes, editing G-code at the controller, reading GD&T, inspecting parts with precision tools, and selecting tooling while managing speeds/feeds.

Qualifications

• 3-5+ years of independent lathe setups required.
• G-code editing at the controller required.
• Strong blueprint reading and GD&T understanding required.
• Ability to work safely in a heavy manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC lathes/turning centers.
• Edit and verify G-code at the machine controller.
• Interpret blueprints and GD&T for accurate parts.
• Inspect first-piece and in-process parts with precision tools.
• Select tooling, calculate speeds/feeds, and manage wear offsets.

Skills

G-code editing

Lathe setup

Blueprint reading

GD&T

Machine safety

Tools

Mazak turning centers

Haas turning centers

Job description

About the job: Hiring an experienced CNC Lathe Setup Machinist, (1st and 2nd shift) for a full-time, direct-hire position. The role focuses on low-volume production, turning operations, and custom component manufacturing rather than high-volume assembly lines. The machinist is responsible for taking projects independently from technical blueprints through to the finished part.

What You'll Do

• Setup & Operation: Completes comprehensive setups on CNC lathes, turning centers, and associated work-holding equipment.
• G-Code Editing: Performs manual G-code edits, program checkouts, and adjustments directly at the machine control.
• Blueprint Reading: Interprets complex blueprints, geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T), and technical documentation.
• Quality Inspection: Utilizes precision measuring instruments (micrometers, calipers, gauges) to inspect first-piece and in-process turned components to maintain tight tolerances.
• Tooling Management: Selects correct boring bars, inserts, and turning tools, calculates speeds and feeds for various raw materials, and manages tool wear offsets.

What We're Looking For

• Experience: 3-5+ years of professional experience with independent lathe setups, G-code editing at the controller, and running high-mix parts.
• Equipment Preference: Prior experience operating and setting up Mazak or Haas turning centers fits well with this workload.
• Technical Knowledge: Strong understanding of blueprint reading, thread profiles, part geometries, raw materials, and machine safety protocols.
• Physical Stamina: Ability to work comfortably in a heavy manufacturing environment, including standing for extended durations and handling parts or tooling safely.

What We Offer

• Competitive hourly wages depending on experience
• Shift, start time, and overtime flexibility: 4/10's, 5/8's, 5/10's etc.
• 20% Shift Differential
• Full company benefits package: Medical, Dental, Vision, and Short/Long-Term Disability.
• 401(k) retirement plan with a company match program.
• Generous paid time off (PTO) and paid holidays.
• Must be eligible to work in the United States without restriction.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, age, color, sex (including pregnancy), religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, military status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable laws or regulations.