CNC Set Up Technician- Lathe

Reader-Precision-Solutions; Elkhorn (WI); On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Reader Precision Solutions in Wisconsin is seeking a skilled CNC Lathe Setup Technician to join an award-winning team. You will set up and operate multi-axis CNC lathes, edit and troubleshoot programs, and drive process improvements to meet tight tolerances.

The role emphasizes strong problem-solving, tooling knowledge, and collaboration across Engineering, Production, and Quality to ensure high-quality parts and continuous productivity improvements.

Qualifications

• Minimum of three years of experience setting up and operating multi-axis CNC lathes in a manufacturing environment.
• High school diploma or equivalent; technical training or CNC certifications preferred.
• Experience with twin spindle, twin turret, and live-tooling CNC lathes.
• Strong G-code programming and troubleshooting abilities.
• Advanced troubleshooting of machining processes, tooling, and machine performance.
• Experience with setup reduction techniques and continuous improvement initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate one or more multi-axis CNC lathes to perform turning, drilling, boring, threading, milling and tapping per drawings.
• Perform complete machine setups including tooling installation, workholding setup, bar feeder prep, and first-piece approval.
• Edit, optimize, and troubleshoot CNC programs to improve cycle times and quality.
• Conduct advanced troubleshooting of CNC machine issues to minimize downtime.
• Analyze machining processes and recommend tooling and parameter improvements.
• Maintain records of setups, tooling changes, production runs, and inspections.

Skills

CNC programming

Troubleshooting

Process optimization

G-code

Tooling knowledge

Education

High school diploma

CNC certifications/technical training

Tools

CMM

OASIS

Keyence

Calipers

Micrometers

Job description

Description

As a CNC Lathe Setup Technician at Reader Precision Solutions, you will join an award-winning company on a mission to supply clients with the industry's leading precision components and machined products. The ideal candidate will have a minimum of three years of experience setting up and operating multi-axis CNC lathes in a manufacturing environment and possess strong troubleshooting, programming, tooling, and process optimization skills.
This role is responsible for machine setup, program editing, process improvement, troubleshooting, quality assurance, and supporting production efficiency. We are looking for a skilled machining professional who is passionate about continuous improvement, takes pride in producing high-quality parts, and is eager to share knowledge and expertise with others.

Essential duties and responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Set up and operate one or more multi-axis CNC lathes to perform machining operations including turning, drilling, boring, threading, milling, and tapping according to engineering drawings and specifications.
• Perform complete machine setups including tooling installation, tool touch-offs, workholding setup, bar feeder preparation, and first-piece approval.
• Prepare and load specified bar stock into automatic bar feeders and verify proper material setup prior to production runs.
• Edit, optimize, and troubleshoot CNC programs to improve cycle times, enhance process reliability, and ensure adherence to quality standards.
• Conduct advanced troubleshooting of CNC machine issues, including mechanical, tooling, electrical, programming, and process-related problems to minimize downtime and maximize productivity.
• Analyze machining processes and recommend improvements to tooling, cutting parameters, machine utilization, and setup practices.
• Maintain accurate records of machine setups, tooling changes, production runs, quality inspections, and process adjustments.
• Monitor machine operation and verify conformance of workpieces to specifications using precision measuring equipment including micrometers, calipers, indicators, comparators, CMM, OASIS, Keyence systems, pin gauges, thread gauges, and functional gauges.
• Make machine and tooling adjustments as required to maintain dimensional conformity and process stability.
• Adjust part dimensions using offsets, replace inserts, touch off tools, center tooling, and make necessary process corrections.
• Consistently inspect parts according to inspection requirements and ensure all non-conforming material is properly identified and controlled.
• Review and ensure completion of routers, scheduling boards, blueprints, inspection instructions, setup documentation, and quality records for each production run.
• Ensure all tooling, gauges, fixtures, and setup components are accounted for and maintained in proper working condition.
• Demonstrate working knowledge of AS9100 and ISO Quality Management System requirements and work instructions.
• Perform preventive maintenance activities and maintain machines and related equipment in optimal operating condition.
• Work closely with Engineering, Production, Maintenance, Tooling, and Quality teams to resolve technical issues and achieve production objectives.
• Assist in training and mentoring CNC Operators and less experienced Setup Technicians.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives by identifying opportunities to improve productivity, quality, safety, setup reduction, and operational efficiency.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment in accordance with company policies and safety procedures.
• Adhere to all company safety standards and actively promote a culture of safety throughout the facility.

CNC Lathe Platforms You Will Work WithMiyano CNC Lathes

• Miyano ABX-64TH3 (2.5\" capacity)
• Miyano ABX-51SY (2\" capacity)
• Miyano ABX-51TH3 (2\" capacity)
• Miyano BNX-51MSY (2\" capacity)

Similar Equipment Experience Preferred

• Nakamura-Tome
• Mazak
• DMG MORI
• Doosan
• Okuma
• Haas Turning Centers

Requirements

• Minimum of three years of experience as a CNC Lathe Setup Technician, Setup Machinist, or equivalent role in a machining/manufacturing environment.
• High school diploma or equivalent required. Additional technical training, apprenticeship completion, or CNC machining certifications preferred.
• Demonstrated experience setting up and operating multi-axis CNC lathes, including twin spindle, twin turret, and live-tooling machines.
• Strong CNC programming and program editing abilities, including G-code comprehension and troubleshooting.
• Advanced troubleshooting skills related to machining processes, tooling, machine performance, and program optimization.
• Ability to analyze complex machining issues and develop effective solutions to improve productivity and quality.
• Experience with setup reduction techniques and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Strong understanding of cutting tools, insert selection, workholding methods, machining parameters, and process control.
• Positive attitude with exceptional aptitude and drive to continuously develop technical skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments.
• Strong work ethic, reliability, and commitment to achieving production goals.
• Ability to prioritize time-sensitive tasks and effectively manage multiple responsibilities.
• Meticulous attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality precision components.
• Operational knowledge and proficiency using quality inspection equipment including micrometers, calipers, indicators, comparators, surface testers, pin gauges, thread gauges, OASIS, Keyence, and CMM systems.
• Knowledge of basicmathematics including arithmetic