CNC Swiss Operator - Weekend Shift (F-Su, 5:00am-5:30pm)

RTCA; Fife (WA); On-site; USD 41,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision insurance

401(k) with company match

Paid time off and holidays

Shift differentials

Discretionary bonus programs

Job summary

RTCA is seeking a Swiss Machinist (Setup / Programmer) to join our precision aerospace and defense manufacturing team in Fife, WA. You will support setup, operation, and programming of Swiss-type CNC machines, ensuring parts meet blueprints with tight tolerances and ISO 9001 traceability.

The role requires strong hands-on machining skills, familiarity with CAM software, and the ability to work in a high‑performing team. Competitive benefits and a weekend shift differential are offered.

Qualifications

• Experience in machining or a related technical field.
• Exposure to Swiss machining on Citizen, Star, Tsugami, or similar.
• Basic understanding of CNC operations and measurement tools.

Responsibilities

• Set up and program Swiss-type machines and monitor tool positions.
• Verify conformance with blueprints using standard measuring tools.
• Develop CNC programs using CAM software or manually as needed.
• Maintain ISO 9001 documentation and traceability.
• Read and interpret engineering drawings; follow safety guidelines.
• Collaborate with supervisors and team for production excellence.

Skills

Machining experience

Swiss machining

CNC operations

Measuring tools

Tools

Mastercam

PartMaker

Esprit

Job description

RTCA is a precision aerospace and defense manufacturing group built on decades of hands‑on machining expertise, with roots spanning more than 50 years. We support mission‑critical commercial and government aerospace programs across North America through four U.S. Centers of Excellence operating as an integrated platform with 150+ CNC machines and a team of 250+ professionals.

Unlike large organizations where roles can be narrow, RTCA offers hands‑on ownership and real visibility – you understand how your work supports the team, the operation, and the end customer. Our flat structure allows employees to take initiative, grow their skills, and have their contributions recognized, while still providing the stability, advanced technology, and meaningful work of an established aerospace manufacturer.

At RTCA, we believe in teamwork, excellence, and delivering with pride. One Team! One Mission!

How You’ll Make an Impact:

A Swiss Machinist (Setup / Programmer) will contribute to precision manufacturing by supporting the setup, operation, and programming of Swiss‑type CNC machines. This role is open to both experienced machinists and developing talent with foundational machining knowledge and a strong willingness to learn. You’ll be part of a high‑performing manufacturing team focused on quality, continuous improvement, and production excellence.

What you’ll be doing as a CNC Swiss Operator:

• Working a full‑time, onsite position at our Fife, WA location.Shift differential of 11.11% of base pay offered for weekend shift. Weekend Shift (F‑Su, 5:00am‑5:30pm)
• Assist with or perform setup and programming on Swiss‑type machines (Citizen, Star, Tsugami, or similar)
• Monitor machines and make adjustments to speeds, feeds, and tool positions to ensure parts meet blueprint requirements
• Verify conformance of finished workpieces using standard measuring tools
• Work with small parts and tight tolerances (including +/- .0001 as applicable)
• Support or develop CNC programs manually or with software such as Mastercam, PartMaker, or Esprit
• Ensure traceability and documentation are completed in accordance with ISO 9001 procedures
• Work toward meeting production standards with appropriate supervision and support
• Identify production issues and communicate effectively with supervisors or team members
• Maintain a positive attitude and strong work ethic in a team environment
• Read and interpret manufacturing and engineering drawings
• Utilize or learn G and M code fundamentals (CAM software experience is a plus)
• Follow all company safety guidelines and procedures
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications (Education, skills and experience):

• Experience in machining, manufacturing, or a related technical field (entry‑level to experienced candidates considered)
• Exposure to Swiss machining (Citizen, Star, Tsugami, or similar), even at a basic or trainee level, is required
• Basic understanding of machining principles and CNC operations preferred
• Ability to follow instructions, stay focused, and work independently or as part of a team
• Familiarity with basic measuring tools (calipers, micrometers, indicators, etc.) or willingness to learn
• Mechanical aptitude and good manual dexterity
• Ability to inspect parts visually and/or using magnification tools

Preferred Qualifications (Education, skills and experience):

• Experience with operating, setting up and/or programming Swiss‑type CNC lathes (Citizen, Star, Tsugami)
• Experience with CAM software (Mastercam, PartMaker, Esprit)
• Strong attention to detail, organization, and follow‑through
• Basic computer skills (MS Office or similar)
• Strong math and problem‑solving skills
• Good verbal and written communication skills

Compensation and Benefits:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• Choice of medical plan options, including a no‑cost employee‑only coverage plan
• HSA‑eligible health plan with employer contributions
• Basic and supplemental life insurance
• Long‑term disability coverage
• 401(k) plan with up to a 6% QACA company match
• Paid time off including vacation, sick time, and nine (9) paid company holidays
• Shift differentials for applicable off‑shifts
• Discretionary bonus programs based on position and company performance

The CNC Swiss Operator compensation rangefor onsite Washington applicants is $30-40 commensurate with experience. Some shifts may include shift differential pay rates. Other site ranges may differ.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

This position must meet Export Control compliance requirements, therefore a “US Person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.15 is required.

RTCA is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Applicants wishing to receive information on RTCA’s Affluent Action Plans, or those requiring a reasonable accommodation to participate in the application or interview process, should contact the RTCA Human Resources Department. Qualified individuals with disabilities or disabled veterans who are unable or limited in their ability to access or use our career center due to a disability may request a reasonable accommodation by contacting Human Resources.

Candidates will receive consideration without discrimination in accordance with Article 9, Chapter XVIII of the City of Los Angeles Municipal Code and applicable federal, state, and local laws.