Job TypeFull-timeDescriptionPosition SummaryThe CNC Setup Machinist I sets up and operates CNC milling and/or turning equipment to produce precision-machined components to close tolerances and exacting finish specifications. This is a skilled trade role for a machinist who can independently plan and execute complex setups across a diverse range of jobs — reading prints, selecting tooling, writing or editing programs, dialing in first-piece quality, and running production with minimal supervision.Acme machines large, complex castings and forgings for aerospace, defense, power generation, and industrial customers. Tolerances are tight, programs are varied, and most jobs don’t repeat on a fixed schedule. The right Setup Machinist I is someone who is comfortable building a setup from scratch, troubleshooting when it doesn’t go right the first time, and taking ownership of part quality before releasing to run.This role may specialize in milling or turning depending on production needs and candidate background.Essential ResponsibilitiesMachine SetupPlan and execute complex CNC setups from engineering drawings, job travelers, and setup sheets across milling and/or turning equipmentSelect appropriate cutting tools, inserts, holders, and workholding fixtures for the job; source from crib or coordinate with tooling when neededEstablish work offsets, tool length offsets, and fixture offsets; verify against print requirements before running first pieceEdit or create CNC programs at the control as needed to achieve correct toolpath, feeds, speeds, and clearancesPerform first-piece inspection using appropriate measurement tools to verify dimensional conformance before releasing job to runComplete setup documentation including traveler sign-offs, setup sheets, and any required first article recordsCNC Machine OperationOperate CNC milling and/or turning equipment to produce parts to blueprint specifications and close tolerancesMonitor in-process dimensional conformance using calipers, micrometers, bore gages, thread gages, and other measurement tools; adjust offsets as needed to maintain toleranceIdentify and communicate tool wear, tool breakage, chatter, surface finish issues, or other process concerns promptlyPerform in-process inspection per control plan, job traveler, or quality requirements and document resultsRun multiple machines or setups concurrently where workload and job requirements allowBlueprint Reading & GD&TRead and interpret engineering drawings including geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) callouts, surface finish specifications, material requirements, and notesIdentify critical features and determine the correct sequence, tooling, and inspection method to achieve required specificationsRaise questions or concerns about print ambiguity or manufacturability to Engineering or Quality before beginning a jobQuality & ComplianceProduce work that meets all dimensional, surface finish, and material requirements specified on the engineering drawing and travelerFollow all inspection and documentation requirements per Acme’s QMS (ISO 9001:2015 / AS9100D) and customer-specific quality plansReport nonconforming material immediately using Acme’s nonconformance process; do not pass suspect partsMaintain a clean, organized work area at all times; follow 5S standards for the production floorComply with all safety requirements including PPE, machine guarding, lockout/tagout, and hazardous material handlingTeam & CommunicationCommunicate job status, setup issues, tooling needs, and scheduling concerns to the production supervisor in a timely mannerSupport the transition between shifts by providing clear handoff notes on job status, in-process offsets, and any open issuesAssist in mentoring CNC Operators and less-experienced machinists as directed by supervisionParticipate in continuous improvement activities including identifying setup time reductions, tooling improvements, and process efficienciesRequirementsQualificationsRequiredMinimum 5 years of CNC setup experience in a precision machining, job shop, or contract manufacturing environmentDemonstrated ability to plan and execute complex setups independently on CNC mills and/or lathesStrong blueprint reading ability including GD&T, surface finish callouts, and tolerance interpretationProficiency with standard measurement tools: calipers, micrometers, bore gages, thread gages, height gages, indicatorsAbility to edit or create CNC programs at the control (conversational or G-code)Experience with close-tolerance work (routinely holding ±0.001? or tighter)High school diploma, GED, or equivalent; vocational or technical training in machining preferredAbility to lift and move workpieces and fixtures up to 50 lbs. independently; team lift for heavier componentsAbility to read and write English; basic computer skillsPreferredFANUC control experience strongly preferred (FANUC 0i, 30i, 31i series)Experience with large-format CNC equipment (vertical machining centers, horizontal machining centers, CNC lathes with live tooling)Experience machining castings, forgings, or other near-net-shape workpiecesExperience in an ISO 9001 or AS9100D certified manufacturing environmentFamiliarity with Made2Manage ERP or similar job shop ERP system for traveler and job managementExperience with 4th or 5th axis setups a plusWhat We Offer10% shift differential for 2nd shiftHiring bonusMedical, dental, and vision insurance — Day 1, no waiting periodCompany-paid life insurance and short- and long-term disabilityHealth Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)401(k) with company matchPaid vacation, sick time, and holidaysWeekly payGainsharing bonus opportunitiesTuition assistanceClean, well-maintained shop with late-model CNC equipment*About Acme Industries*Since 1948, Acme Industries has been a trusted precision manufacturer serving aerospace, defense, power generation, mining, and transportation markets from Elk Grove Village, Illinois. We are ISO 9001:2015 and AS9100D certified and specialize in large, complex machined castings and forgings where tight tolerances and repeatable quality are non-negotiable. Our machinists don’t run the same part every day — they solve new problems, build difficult setups, and make things that require real skill to get right.Salary Description$36.00 - $42.00 Per Hour