CNC Turning Machinist — Lathe Operations

Rusco Manufacturing; Machesney Park (IL); On-site; USD 28,000 - 33,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) with company match

Paid time off and holidays

Overtime opportunities

Training and advancement potential

Job summary

Rusco Manufacturing is seeking a skilled CNC lathe operator to produce precision components on 1st shift at our Machesney Park, IL facility. You will load, set up, and run lathes, interpret blueprints with GD&T, and verify parts using micrometers, calipers, and gauges.

Maintain tool life, adjust offsets, and document inspections for a smooth handoff to the next job. Ideal candidates have experience with CNC lathes, Mazak equipment, and Mazatrol; strong attention to detail; and a dependable work

Qualifications

• Prior experience operating CNC lathes preferred.
• Familiarity with Mazak equipment and Mazatrol controls is a plus.
• Ability to interpret prints and apply GD&T fundamentals.
• Hands-on proficiency with precision measuring instruments.
• Working knowledge of CNC operation and basic tooling concepts.
• Sharp attention to detail and pride in workmanship.
• Team-oriented mindset with the ability to work independently.
• Consistent attendance and strong work ethic.

Responsibilities

• Run CNC lathes/turning centers to produce precision components.
• Load stock and unload finished parts safely and efficiently.
• Read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and work instructions, including GD&T callouts.
• Measure parts with micrometers, calipers, and gauges to verify dimensions.
• Perform basic wear offsets and minor adjustments to maintain quality.
• Monitor, replace, and record tooling as it wears or is damaged.
• Keep the workcell clean, organized, and compliant with safety practices.
• Follow established quality and safety procedures at all times.
• Accurately complete production and inspection records.

Skills

CNC lathe operation

Mazak equipment

Mazatrol controls

GD&T fundamentals

precision measuring instruments

CNC operation knowledge

tooling concepts

attention to detail

teamwork

attendance

Tools

Mazak equipment

Mazatrol controls

Micrometers

Calipers

Gauges

Job description

Location: Machesney Park IL

Job Type: Full-Time

Shift: 1st Shift

Pay: $20 - $24 per hour depending on experience

A Day in This Role

Start your shift by reviewing the job traveler and blueprint for the next run. You’ll load raw material, call up the program, and verify the first piece using micrometers, calipers, and gauges. As production flows, you’ll watch tool life, make minor offsets to hold tight tolerances, and document in-process checks. You’ll wrap up with part counts, cleaning the machine area, and handing off clear notes for the next job.

What You’ll Do

• Run CNC lathes/turning centers to produce precision components.
• Load bar/slug stock and unload finished parts safely and efficiently.
• Read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and work instructions, including GD&T callouts.
• Measure parts using micrometers, calipers, and other precision gauges to verify dimensions.
• Perform basic wear offsets and minor adjustments to maintain quality.
• Monitor, replace, and record tooling as it wears or becomes damaged.
• Keep the workcell clean, organized, and compliant with safety practices.
• Follow established quality and safety procedures at all times.
• Accurately complete production and inspection records.

What You Bring

• Prior experience operating CNC lathes preferred.
• Familiarity with Mazak equipment and Mazatrol controls is a plus.
• Ability to interpret prints and apply GD&T fundamentals.
• Hands-on proficiency with precision measuring instruments.
• Working knowledge of CNC operation and basic tooling concepts.
• Sharp attention to detail and pride in workmanship.
• Team-oriented mindset with the ability to work independently.
• Consistent attendance and strong work ethic.

Perks & Benefits

• Competitive pay based on experience.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and holidays
• Overtime opportunities
• Training and advancement potential

Equal Opportunity Employer: We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants.