CNC Setup Machinist

B&B Manufacturing Co., Inc.; California; On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

B&B Manufacturing Co., Inc. seeks an experienced CNC Machinist to set up and operate multi-axis milling and turning machines, calibrate tooling, and verify first-article parts to meet tight dimensional tolerances.

The role focuses on continuous improvement, documenting setups, mentoring less experienced machinists, and collaborating with engineering to optimize processes for quality and efficiency. This is a hands-on role requiring strong problem solving and adherence to safety standards.

Qualifications

• 5+ years hands-on CNC machining experience (aerospace/defense/medical preferred).
• Expertise in G-code, canned cycles, and in-process probing systems.

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, and optimize CNC machine tools (multi-axis milling and turning).
• Perform CNC program proofing and first-article validation.
• Read and interpret GD&T and engineering drawings to ensure precision manufacturing.
• Diagnose machining issues and implement sustainable corrective actions.
• Develop and maintain setup documentation and tooling files.

Skills

5+ years CNC machining

G-code & probing systems

GD&T interpretation

Reading drawings

Problem solving

MS Office experience

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

Tools

MS Office (Excel, Outlook)

Job description

Job Description

JOB SUMMARY

Responsible for performing precision setups and operations on multi-axis CNC milling and turning machines. In this role, you will prepare machines for production by installing tooling, fixtures, and programs, validating first-article parts, and ensuring parts meet strict quality and dimensional standards.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The duties and responsibilities described are not a comprehensive list and additional tasks may be assigned. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.

Advanced Machining & Setup

• Set up, operate, and optimize CNC machine tools (multi-axis milling and turning).
• Perform CNC program proofing, validate first-article setups, and ensure reliable, efficient, and safe production.
• Evaluate and improve work holding, feeds/speeds, for performance and repeatability.

Automation & Continuous Improvement

• Collaborate with Programming and Manufacturing Engineers to optimize machining processes suitable for automation (robotic loading, in-process inspection & probing) to support lights-out manufacturing.
• Apply continuous improvement principles to machining processes to improve efficiency, reduce lead times, and eliminate non-value-added activities.

Quality & Problem Solving

• Diagnose machining issues, perform root-cause analysis, and implement sustainable corrective actions.
• Ensure adherence to tight tolerances using advanced inspection tools and techniques.
• Read and interpret GD&T, engineering drawings, and 3D part models to ensure precision manufacturing.

Training & Leadership

• Develop and maintain detailed setup documentation including setup sheets, tooling files, and manufacturing inspection plans.
• Mentor and train less experienced machinists in setup techniques and process control.
• Promote a culture of craftsmanship, accountability, and continuous improvement.

QUALIFICATIONS, EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

• High School diploma or equivalent
• 5+ years hands-on experience in CNC precision machining (aerospace, defense, or medical).
• Expertise in G-code, canned cycles, and in-process probing systems.
• Proven track record of machining tight-tolerance parts using aluminum, steel, and aerospace-grade alloys.
• Understanding of metal behavior & mechanics in a machining environment (chip formation, vibration, distortion, heat transfer, etc.)
• Understanding of cutting tool geometry, fixture design, and tool life management.
• Ability to interpret GD&T and manufacturing drawings.
• Proven ability to diagnose and resolve complex machining issues independently — from chatter and tool wear to dimensional instability and setup inefficiencies.
• Experience with standard MS Office tools (Excel, Outlook)

PHYSICAL DEMANDS – GENERAL ACTIVITIES

• Sitting - Frequently
• Standing - Regularly
• Walking - Regularly
• Climbing/Balancing - Occasionally
• Reaching - with arms and hands - Regularly
• Stooping/Kneeling/Crouching/Crawling - Occasionally
• Hearing - Regularly
• Feeling/Touching - Regularly
• Near/Far Visual acuity - Regularly

This position requires use of information which is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). All applicants must be U.S. persons within the meaning of ITAR. ITAR defines a U.S. person as a U.S. Citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident (i.e. 'Green Card Holder'), Political Asylee, or Refugee.

B&B Manufacturing Co. is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran or disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.