CNC Lathe Setup Machinist, 1st and 2nd Shift

gpac; Saginaw (MI); On-site; USD 36,000 - 47,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Shift differential

401(k) with company match

Paid time off

Paid holidays

Medical, Dental, Vision

Job summary

GPAC is seeking an experienced CNC Lathe Setup Machinist (1st and 2nd shift) for full-time, direct-hire work focused on low-volume production, turning operations, and custom component manufacturing. You’ll take projects from technical blueprints to finished parts.

You will set up and operate CNC lathes, edit G-code at the controller, read blueprints with GD&T, inspect components, manage tooling, and ensure safety.

Qualifications

• 3–5+ years of independent lathe setups.
• Experience with G-code editing at the controller.
• Ability to run high‑mix parts.
• Strong blueprint and GD&T interpretation.
• Safety compliance in heavy manufacturing.

Responsibilities

• Setup and operate CNC lathes, turning centers, and related work-holding equipment.
• Edit G-code and perform program checks at the machine controller.
• Read and interpret blueprints with GD&T and technical docs.
• Perform first-piece and in-process inspection with calipers, micrometers, and gauges.
• Manage tooling selection, speeds/feeds, and wear offsets to ensure quality.

Skills

Lathe setup experience

G-code editing

Blueprint reading

GD&T understanding

Quality inspection

Tooling management

Machining safety

Tools

Mazak turning centers

Haas turning centers

CNC machine controls

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.