CNC Machinist

Aerotek; Thousand Oaks (CA); On-site; USD 33,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Dental benefits

Vision benefits

401(k)

Job summary

Aerotek is seeking a CNC Machinist in Thousand Oaks, CA for a 2nd shift, contract-to-hire role. You will set up, program, and operate CNC lathes and mills to produce aerospace-grade parts, read drawings with GD&T, and verify with precision instruments. The environment emphasizes quick changeovers, tight tolerances, and documentation.

The role requires extensive experience with G&M codes and Virtual Gibbs, along with strong math and independent work capability in a fast-paced shop.

Qualifications

• 710+ years of experience in machining, including hands-on work with CNC equipment.
• Thorough knowledge of G and M codes, including the ability to edit and adjust CNC programs.
• Proven experience performing complex setups on CNC machinery, especially in environments with high volumes of short-run custom parts.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and engineering drawings, including a solid understanding of GD&T.
• Proficiency in setting up and operating CNC lathes and/or CNC mills, preferably using Virtual Gibbs.
• Strong shop mathematics skills and understanding of machine shop theory and procedures.
• Experience machining parts for demanding applications, such as aerospace components.
• Competence using measuring instruments such as calipers, micrometers, and other precision tools to verify part quality.
• Ability to work independently with limited supervision in a fast-paced manufacturing setting.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC lathes and/or CNC mills using Virtual Gibbs to produce precision parts according to engineering specifications.
• Apply machine shop theory, shop mathematics, and knowledge of material machinability to plan and execute machining operations.
• Edit CNC programs using G and M codes to optimize performance, correct issues, and support complex setups.
• Perform complex setups on CNC machinery, including frequent changeovers to support high volumes of short-run custom parts.
• Read and interpret blueprints and engineering drawings, including geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T), to ensure parts meet design requirements.
• Machine parts to tight tolerances and inspect completed components using appropriate measuring instruments to verify conformance.
• Utilize a wide range of tools and measuring instruments, including mills, lathes, hones, saws, shears, grinders, calipers, micrometers, calculators, and various hand tools.
• Document inspection results and maintain accurate records related to parts, processes, and setups.
• Work independently with limited supervision, managing priorities and maintaining productivity in a fast-paced environment.
• Adapt to different machines and work areas as needed, supporting a flexible and evolving production environment.
• Contribute to aerospace-related machining projects by following quality standards and process requirements.

Skills

CNC programming

G & M codes

Complex setups

GD&T interpretation

CNC lathes and mills

Shop mathematics

Aerospace machining

Measuring instruments

Independent work

Tools

Virtual Gibbs

Job description

Job Title: CNC Machinist

This role focuses on setting up, operating, and programming CNC lathes and mills to produce precision components, with a strong emphasis on complex setups, short-run custom parts, and high-quality inspection. You will apply advanced machine shop theory, shop mathematics, and knowledge of material machinability to manufacture aerospace-grade parts while maintaining accurate documentation and adherence to engineering specifications.

Job Description

This role focuses on setting up, operating, and programming CNC lathes and mills to produce precision components, with a strong emphasis on complex setups, short-run custom parts, and high-quality inspection. You will apply advanced machine shop theory, shop mathematics, and knowledge of material machinability to manufacture aerospace-grade parts while maintaining accurate documentation and adherence to engineering specifications.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC lathes and/or CNC mills using Virtual Gibbs to produce precision parts according to engineering specifications.

• Apply machine shop theory, shop mathematics, and knowledge of material machinability to plan and execute machining operations.

• Edit CNC programs using G and M codes to optimize performance, correct issues, and support complex setups.

• Perform complex setups on CNC machinery, including frequent changeovers to support high volumes of short-run custom parts.

• Read and interpret blueprints and engineering drawings, including geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T), to ensure parts meet design requirements.

• Machine parts to tight tolerances and inspect completed components using appropriate measuring instruments to verify conformance.

• Utilize a wide range of tools and measuring instruments, including mills, lathes, hones, saws, shears, grinders, calipers, micrometers, calculators, and various hand tools.

• Document inspection results and maintain accurate records related to parts, processes, and setups.

• Work independently with limited supervision, managing priorities and maintaining productivity in a fast-paced environment.

• Adapt to different machines and work areas as needed, supporting a flexible and evolving production environment.

• Contribute to aerospace-related machining projects by following quality standards and process requirements.

Essential Skills

• 710+ years of experience in machining, including hands-on work with CNC equipment.

• Thorough knowledge of G and M codes, including the ability to edit and adjust CNC programs.

• Proven experience performing complex setups on CNC machinery, especially in environments with high volumes of short-run custom parts.

• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and engineering drawings, including a solid understanding of GD&T.

• Proficiency in setting up and operating CNC lathes and/or CNC mills, preferably using Virtual Gibbs.

• Strong shop mathematics skills and understanding of machine shop theory and procedures.

• Experience machining parts for demanding applications, such as aerospace components.

• Competence using measuring instruments such as calipers, micrometers, and other precision tools to verify part quality.

• Ability to work independently with limited supervision in a fast-paced manufacturing setting.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with multi-turret, multi-spindle CNC lathes is a strong plus.

• Familiarity with Virtual Gibbs or similar CAM software for CNC programming and setup.

• Experience in aerospace machining or other high-precision, high-compliance industries.

• Graduates or students from machining or CNC programs who have performed well and shown strong aptitude may be considered at a lower experience level.

• CNC operators with demonstrated on-the-job performance and a desire to grow into setup roles are encouraged to apply.

• Comfort using a variety of shop equipment, including mills, lathes, hones, saws, shears, grinders, and related hand tools.

• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot machining and programming issues.

Why Work Here?

You will join a modern, growing manufacturing operation that invests in new equipment and continuous improvement. The environment supports professional growth, offering opportunities to expand your skills on different machines and move into more advanced setup and programming responsibilities. You will work in a setting that values independence, initiative, and the ability to contribute to high-precision projects, with a culture that encourages learning, adaptability, and long-term development.

Work Environment

This is a 2nd shift position in a fast-paced, busy manufacturing facility. You will work primarily on the shop floor, operating CNC equipment and related machinery in a newly relocated facility with several recently purchased machines and plans for additional equipment over the next 12 years. The role requires flexibility to learn and work on different machines and in various areas as production needs change. Personal protective equipment (PPE) must be worn on the shop floor in accordance with safety policies. Work is largely independent, with limited direct supervision, and focuses on precision machining in a modern, evolving production environment. No certifications or medical clearances are required for this role.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Thousand Oaks, CA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $24.00 - $40.00/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)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Thousand Oaks,CA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Oct 16, 2026.

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.

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.