CNC VTL Machinist - Large Scale Precision Turning

Accelera; Elk Grove Village (IL); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Accelera seeks an experienced CNC Vertical Turret Lathe Machinist to produce large-diameter components for aerospace and defense applications. You will perform full-cycle setups, optimize tooling, fixtures, and workholding, and ensure parts meet stringent GD&T specifications.

Responsibilities include precise machining, in-process and final inspections, and proactive troubleshooting to minimize downtime while maintaining quality. Strong communication during shift changes is required.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of professional experience operating and setting up CNC VTLs for large-diameter parts.
• Advanced ability to read and apply GD&T on complex drawings.
• Experience with crane-assisted handling of heavy, oversized workpieces.
• Strong analytical skills for troubleshooting mechanical and tooling issues.

Responsibilities

• Execute full-cycle setups on CNC VTL machines, selecting tooling, fixtures, and workholding for large components.
• Operate to achieve precise tolerances for high-quality aerospace/defense output.
• Perform in-process and final inspections using micrometers, bore gauges, and CMMs.
• Interpret GD&T and blueprints to ensure machining aligns with engineering intent.
• Monitor feeds, speeds, and offsets to maintain surface integrity and dimensional accuracy.
• Troubleshoot machine alarms and tooling issues to minimize downtime.
• Maintain documentation for first-article inspections and non-conformances.
• Communicate status and priorities to team during shift transitions.

Skills

CNC VTL setup

GD&T interpretation

Large-diameter parts

Troubleshooting

Heavy workpiece handling

CMM

Micrometers

Tools

CMM

Micrometers

Job description

About the Role

As a CNC Vertical Turret Lathe (VTL) Machinist, you will be responsible for the end-to-end production of massive, high-precision components for critical aerospace and defense applications. You will leverage your expertise in large-diameter turning to ensure every workpiece meets rigorous quality standards, transforming complex engineering specifications into finished, flight-ready parts.

Responsibilities

• Execute full-cycle setups on CNC VTL machines, including selecting optimal tooling, fixtures, and workholding for heavy, large-diameter components.
• Operate equipment to achieve precise tolerances, ensuring high-quality output for demanding industrial and defense sectors.
• Perform comprehensive in-process and final inspections using advanced metrology tools such as micrometers, bore gauges, and CMM equipment.
• Interpret complex blueprints and GD&T requirements to ensure all machining processes align with engineering intent.
• Proactively monitor and adjust feeds, speeds, and tool offsets to maintain surface integrity and dimensional accuracy.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical challenges, including machine alarms and tooling performance issues, to minimize downtime.
• Maintain meticulous documentation for first-article inspections and non-conformance reports to uphold quality system integrity.
• Facilitate seamless shift transitions by communicating job status, priorities, and technical insights to team members.

Required Skills

• 5+ years of professional experience operating and setting up CNC VTLs for large-diameter parts.
• Proven ability to perform complete machine setups independently from start to finish.
• Advanced proficiency in reading and applying GD&T and complex technical drawings.
• Demonstrated experience with crane-assisted handling of heavy, oversized workpieces.
• Strong analytical skills for troubleshooting mechanical and tooling issues in a high-precision environment.

Preferred Skills

• Hands-on experience with FANUC control systems.
• Background in high-mix, low-volume manufacturing for aerospace, defense, or power generation.
• Familiarity with AS9100 or ISO 9001 quality management standards.
• Experience mentoring or providing technical guidance to junior machinists.