Lathe Operator

SolomonEdwards; Monrovia (CA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

SolomonEdwards is seeking a CNC Lathe Machinist with 4+ years of experience to set up and program two-axis lathes, read blueprints, and ensure quality. You will edit CNC programs, use micrometers and calipers, and collaborate with QA for first article inspections. CAD/CAM experience and NTMA certification are pluses.

Proactive problem solving, strong math, and attention to detail are essential for meeting production targets while maintaining safe, organized work areas.

Qualifications

• 4+ years of CNC lathe experience.
• Understanding of CNC lathe programs; editing and formatting.
• CAD/CAM experience preferred.
• Ability to read blueprints and manufacturing paperwork.

Responsibilities

• Setup 2 axis CNC lathe machines for new and repeat jobs per process sheets with minimal supervision.
• Create, edit, or retrieve CNC programs for lathe setup and operation.
• Read travelers, blueprints, and sketches to meet customer specs and quality standards.
• Inspect own work and route to Quality for first article inspection.
• Address non-conforming parts using non-conforming material procedures.
• Meet quote times and production schedules for assigned work.
• Process MRP paperwork and related shop paperwork accurately.
• Communicate production issues with supervisors and peers to prevent errors.
• Perform non-CNC tasks when needed, such as hand-work operations.
• Evaluate cycle times and update estimates accordingly.
• Make process decisions and escalate via the chain of command when needed.
• Suggest process improvements to reduce setup and run times.
• Maintain shop organization and safety in all activities.
• Maintain 5S cleanliness and participate in other duties as required.

Skills

CNC lathe setup

CNC programming

CAD/CAM

Metrology tools

Education

NTMA certificate

Tools

JobBoss

CMM

Job description

Responsibilities

• Perform setup on 2 axis CNC lathe machines for new and repeat jobs according to process sheets with minimal supervision or assistance.
• Create, edit, send, or retrieve CNC programs from systems files as required for lathe machine set-up and operation.
• Read and interpret manufacturing paperwork (travelers, blueprints, sketches, etc.) in order to produce products as required by customer specifications and quality standards.
• Inspect and verify own work prior to submitting to Quality Assurance Department for first article inspection.
• If part is non‑conforming, use non‑conforming material procedure.
• Meet needed quote times and schedule for assigned work.
• Correctly process required work‑related paperwork and Material Requirements Planning (MRP) documents.
• Communicate regularly with supervisors and other employees regarding any production issues and ways to eliminate possible errors on set‑up and/or programming.
• Perform non‑CNC tasks when necessary, such as hand‑work operations.
• Evaluate and update “estimated to actual” cycle times.
• Make process decisions and utilize the help chain/chain of command when necessary.
• Challenge processes if needed to create a more efficient production environment.
• Focus on set‑up and run time reduction.
• Conduct all shop functions in a safe manner.
• Consistently improve the organization and cleanliness of assigned areas (5’s).
• Perform other duties as required.

Skills, Knowledge, and Experience

• Minimum of 4+ years of relevant CNC lathe machine experience. Certificate from NTMA or other technical school is a plus.
• Firm understanding of CNC lathe programs including formatting and editing programs. CAD/CAM experience is strongly preferred.
• Ability to use various inspection tools such as micrometers, calipers, height gages, and comparators.
• Familiarity with Coordinate Measurement Machines (CMM) is desired.

Lathe Machinist

• Ability to read and understand blueprints and technical documents.
• Strong shop math skills including the ability to perform measurement conversion.
• A genuine belief in continuous improvement and a disciplined process.
• Organization and time‑management skills.
• Self‑starter with the ability to multi‑task and prioritize daily work assignments.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Basic computer knowledge and ability to use various types of manufacturing software programs such as JobBoss.

Physical Demands

While performing the essential functions of the job, the employee is regularly required to engage in the activities listed below. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Walk and/or move about the workplace.
• Stand and/or sit for prolonged periods of time.
• Bend at waist and/or knees.
• Lift and/or move objects up to 25lbs and occasionally up to 50lbs from one location to another. Assistance is available for lifting objects over 25lbs.
• Move arms, wrists, hands, and/or fingers in repetitive motions including keyboarding.
• Feel and perceive the attributes of an object, such as its size, shape, color, distance, weight, and/or texture.
• Express, perceive, and exchange thoughts, questions, and instructions, through both written and oral communication in the English language.
• Pass eye examination every 12 months at a minimum in one eye, corrected with glasses or uncorrected: Near Vision 20/25 or better and Color Vision.