Senior CNC Mill Set Up Machinist

Total Aviation Staffing; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 41,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Total Aviation Staffing in San Jose, CA seeks a Senior CNC Mill Set-Up Machinist to join a precision aerospace-focused shop. You will set up and operate CNC mills, edit G-code, and collaborate with programmers to ensure high-quality, on-time parts using advanced CNC technology.

You will read engineering drawings, apply GD&T, and contribute to continuous improvement in a safety-conscious environment while mentoring teammates and maintaining a clean, organized shop floor.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of CNC machining experience.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and GD&T.
• Proficient in G-code editing and macro programming.
• Strong problem-solving and teamwork skills.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC mills to produce high-quality parts on schedule.
• Machine complex components from diverse materials.
• Optimize speeds, feeds, tooling, and processes for efficiency and quality.
• Collaborate with programmers to test and validate CNC programs.
• Interpret GD&T and inspect finished parts to drawings and tolerances.
• Troubleshoot machine, tooling, and process issues to minimize downtime.
• Mentor less-experienced machinists and share expertise.

Skills

CNC milling expertise

G-code editing

Reading drawings & GD&T

Leadership ability

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

G-code editing software

Macro programming

Job description

Join our team as a Senior CNC Mill Set-Up Machinist in San Jose, CA. We specialize in precision machining for the aerospace, defense, and technology industries, working with both conventional and exotic materials. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced machinist to work with advanced CNC technology while contributing to high-quality, close-tolerance manufacturing.

Responsibilities

• Independently set up and operate CNC mills to produce high-quality, defect-free parts on schedule.
• Machine complex components from a variety of conventional and exotic materials.
• Optimize speeds, feeds, tooling, and machining processes for efficiency and quality.
• Collaborate with programmers to set up, test, and validate new CNC programs.
• Operate advanced CNC controls and edit G-code and macro programs as needed.
• Apply knowledge of fixture and workholding design, cutting-tool selection, MDI, and manual machining.
• Inspect finished parts to engineering drawings, print tolerances, and GD&T requirements.
• Troubleshoot machine, tooling, and process issues to minimize downtime.
• Estimate job times and accurately track labor, cycle times, and production quantities.
• Follow all safety, quality, defect-reporting, confidentiality, and tooling procedures.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives.
• Mentor less-experienced machinists and share technical expertise.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED with 3–5 years of relevant CNC machining experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Proven ability to independently set up and operate CNC mills.
• Experience with advanced G-code editing, macro programming, and cutting-tool selection.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, work instructions, operating manuals, and safety procedures.
• Strong understanding of geometry, trigonometry, fractions, and mathematical proportions.
• Knowledge of GD&T and precision inspection practices.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Dependable, quality-focused, safety-conscious, and capable of taking a leadership role.
• Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds and work effectively in a manufacturing environment.
• $30–$40 per hour
• Opportunity to work with advanced CNC machining technology.
• Supportive and innovative manufacturing environment.
• Exposure to aerospace, defense, and technology applications.
• Opportunities for professional growth and technical development.
• Quality-focused workplace with opportunities to contribute to continuous improvement.
• Stable environment that values safety, precision, and craftsmanship.