CNC Lathe/Tool Maker

Precision Associates, Inc.; Minneapolis (MN); On-site; USD 52,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

Precision Associates, Inc. seeks a skilled Turning Center Operator/Programmer to machine mold components with CNC turning centers, live tooling, and sub-spindle operations.

You will work from 2D/3D CAD drawings and create Mastercam programs, performing precise final fits and finishes. Responsibilities include manual lathe work as needed, maintaining tight tolerances, and documenting in-process inspections while standing for extended periods.

Qualifications

• Two years technical college or equivalent experience.
• Strong CNC turning experience, including live tooling and sub-spindle work.
• Proficient in Mastercam programming.
• Manual lathe experience required.
• Machine shop skills or experience a plus.
• Computer literate in Mastercam, Excel, and Word.
• Willing to learn new skills and attend schooling if required.
• Ability to manage time effectively and meet productivity expectations and deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Program CNC turning centers using Mastercam, including live tooling and sub‑spindle operations
• Operate CNC Lathe and Turning Center for precision mold components and mid-low volume production of precision components.
• Perform manual lathe operations for one‑off or specialty parts requiring hands‑on craftsmanship
• Execute final fit and finish of mold components to exact specifications
• Drill press operations including drilling, tapping, and chamfering
• Use various measuring equipment (Micrometers, Calipers, Shadowgraph, Vision CMM etc.)
• Perform and document in‑process inspection
• Read and understand CAD drawings and blueprints
• Ability to work with very tight tolerances
• Lift and carry 5–25 pounds on a regular basis
• Work while standing for extended periods of time
• Regular and consistent attendance
• Assist with mold assembly, maintenance, and repair as needed
• Keep work area orderly
• Other duties as assigned by supervisor

Skills

CNC turning

Mastercam

Live tooling & sub-spindle

Reading CAD drawings

Measurement with micrometers/calipers

Education

Two years technical college or equivalent experience

Tools

Mastercam programming

Shadowgraph

Vision CMM

Calipers

Micrometers

Job description

General Description

Seeking a highly skilled Turning Center Operator/Programmer with final fit and finish capabilities. This position specializes in high‑precision machining of mold components using CNC turning centers, live tooling, sub‑spindle operations, and occasional manual lathe work. Must be capable of creating programs in Mastercam, working independently from 2D/3D CAD drawings, and holding extremely tight tolerances.

Key Duties/Responsibilities

• Program CNC turning centers using Mastercam, including live tooling and sub‑spindle operations


• Operate CNC Lathe and Turning Center for precision mold components and mid-low volume production of precision components.


• Perform manual lathe operations for one‑off or specialty parts requiring hands‑on craftsmanship


• Execute final fit and finish of mold components to exact specifications


• Drill press operations including drilling, tapping, and chamfering


• Use various measuring equipment (Micrometers, Calipers, Shadowgraph, Vision CMM etc.)


• Perform and document in‑process inspection


• Read and understand CAD drawings and blueprints


• Ability to work with very tight tolerances


• Lift and carry 5–25 pounds on a regular basis


• Work while standing for extended periods of time


• Regular and consistent attendance


• Assist with mold assembly, maintenance, and repair as needed

Additional Duties & Responsibilities

• Keep work area orderly


• Other duties as assigned by supervisor

Prerequisite Qualifications

• Two (2) years Technical College or Equivalent Experience


• Strong CNC turning experience, including live tooling and sub‑spindle work


• Proficient in Mastercam programming


• Manual lathe experience required


• Machine shop skills or experience a plus


• Computer literate in Mastercam, Excel, and Word


• Willing to learn new skills and attend schooling if required


• Ability to manage time effectively and meet productivity expectations and deadlines