CNC Swiss Set-up Operator - 1st shift

Cadrex Manufacturing Solutions; Agawam (MA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 86,000; Full time

Job summary

Cadrex Manufacturing Solutions is seeking experienced CNC Swiss Set Up Operators to join our Agawam, MA manufacturing team. The role involves setting up, operating, programming, and troubleshooting Swiss-style CNC turning equipment to produce precision components.

Opportunities exist at Level II or Level III based on experience and leadership ability. Key responsibilities include interpreting drawings, creating and modifying CNC programs, conducting tests and inspections, and collaborating with

Qualifications

• Proficiency in CNC programming languages, including G-code and M-code.
• Working knowledge of CAM software such as Esprit, PartMaker, or equivalent.
• Strong understanding of Swiss machining processes, tooling, materials, and tolerances.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, models, and technical specifications.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC Swiss machines for production runs, including tooling selection, material loading, and workholding setup.
• Interpret engineering drawings and specifications to produce conforming parts.
• Create, modify, and troubleshoot CNC programs using CAM software or manual techniques.
• Conduct test runs, inspections, and verify program accuracy and part quality.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Quality, and Production teams to improve processes and efficiency.

Skills

G-code & M-code

Swiss machining

Teamwork

Quality focus

Safety awareness

Education

2-year technical certification

Tools

Esprit

PartMaker

Job description

Cadrex is seeking experienced CNC Swiss Set Up Operators to join our manufacturing team. This position is responsible for setting up, operating, programming, and troubleshooting Swiss-style CNC turning equipment to produce high-quality precision components. Candidates will be considered for either Level II or Level III based on experience, technical expertise, problem-solving capabilities, and demonstrated leadership skills.

The ideal candidate possesses strong machining knowledge, attention to detail, and a commitment to quality, safety, and continuous improvement in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

RESPONSIBILITIES

CNC Swiss Set Up Operator II

• Set up and operate CNC Swiss machines for production runs, including tooling selection, material loading, and workholding setup.
• Interpret engineering drawings, models, and technical specifications to produce conforming parts.
• Create, modify, and troubleshoot CNC programs using CAM software (e.g., Esprit, PartMaker) and/or manual programming techniques.
• Conduct test runs, trial cuts, and inspections to verify program accuracy and part quality.
• Monitor machining processes and make adjustments to maintain quality standards and production requirements.
• Troubleshoot machining, tooling, and equipment issues and implement corrective actions.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Quality, and Production teams to improve manufacturing processes and efficiency.
• Train and assist less experienced operators in machine setup and operation.
• Perform routine machine maintenance, cleaning, lubrication, and minor repairs.
• Follow all safety procedures, policies, and quality requirements.
• Independently perform standard machine setups and program adjustments.
• Identify process improvements and elevate complex technical issues when necessary.
• Consistently produce parts within specified tolerances and quality standards.

CNC Swiss Set Up Operator III

• Performs all responsibilities of the CNC Swiss Set Up Operator II, plus:
• Serve as a technical expert for CNC Swiss machining operations.
• Develop and optimize complex CNC programs to improve cycle times, tool life, and process capability.
• Troubleshoot advanced machining, tooling, programming, and production issues with minimal supervision.
• Lead setup activities for complex new and existing part introductions.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on productivity, quality, and cost reduction.
• Provide technical guidance, coaching, and mentorship to operators and setup personnel.
• Coordinate machining projects and support cross-functional teams with technical expertise.
• Recommend tooling, fixture, and process improvements to enhance performance and efficiency.
• Assist with process documentation, work instructions, and best-practice development.
• Demonstrate advanced Swiss machining expertise across multiple machine platforms and product types.
• Lead problem-solving efforts and implement innovative manufacturing solutions.
• Act as a subject matter expert and key technical resource within the department.
• Support training and development of team members to improve overall shop capability.

REQUIREMENTS

CNC Swiss Set Up Operator II

Experience

• Minimum 3 years of CNC Swiss machine setup and operation experience in a manufacturing environment preferred.

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in CNC programming languages, including G-code and M-code.
• Working knowledge of CAM software such as Esprit, PartMaker, or equivalent.
• Strong understanding of Swiss machining processes, tooling, materials, and tolerances.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, models, and technical specifications.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities.
• Detail-oriented with a strong focus on quality and precision.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to prioritize work and meet production deadlines.
• Commitment to workplace safety and continuous improvement.

CNC Swiss Set Up Operator III

Experience

• Minimum 5 years of CNC Swiss machine setup, operation, and programming experience in a manufacturing environment preferred.

Technical Skills

• Advanced expertise in CNC programming, optimization, and CAM software applications.
• Expert knowledge of Swiss machining processes, tooling strategies, materials, and tight-tolerance manufacturing.
• Ability to interpret complex engineering drawings, GD&T, and technical documentation.
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot and resolve advanced machining and programming challenges.
• Experience leading setup activities and process improvement initiatives.
• Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong leadership, mentoring, and coaching abilities.
• Ability to lead technical projects and coordinate cross-functional activities.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to influence and guide others.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and operational excellence.

EDUCATION

• 2-year technical certification or equivalent experience preferred.

LOCATION

• Onsite; Agawam, MA

SCHEDULE

• 1st Shift

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to work near moving mechanical parts and vibration. The employee is occasionally exposed to the risk of electrical shock. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate and occasionally loud

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, sit, use hands and fingers, handle or feel, and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to sit; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, color vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus

CADREX’S CORE VALUES

• Safety first, rising to the challenge, collaboration, accountability, and doing the right thing

ABOUT US

CADREX Manufacturing Solutions is a leading provider of complex sheet metal and machined production parts, assemblies, and weldments for a variety of end markets, including electrical transmission and distribution, warehouse automation, technology, aerospace & defense, medical, food, and industrials. With locations in Pennsylvania, Illinois, Washington, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Michigan, Indiana, Massachusetts, Oklahoma, and Monterrey Mexico, CADREX offers numerous in-house manufacturing capabilities, including laser cutting, sheet metal fabrication, complex assembly, CNC punching, CNC machining, forming, robotic welding, stamping, fastener insertion, and tool and die manufacturing, to effectively serve customers with lights-out manufacturing capabilities for mid- to high-volume production. For more information, visit www.cadrex.com.

Cadrex provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.