Setup Machinist

5th Axis Inc; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based bonus

Company-paid medical coverage

Life and disability insurance

401(k) with company match

Paid time off

Job summary

5th Axis is seeking a senior CNC Setup Machinist in San Diego to own complex 3-, 4-, and 5-axis setups across multiple machines. You will review drawings, prepare tooling, verify tolerances, and document proven setups while training colleagues.

In this role you’ll work with Hermle, Mikron, HAAS, Doosan, and Grob machines, perform program edits, and troubleshoot issues to keep production moving safely, accurately, and efficiently in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Qualifications

• Five or more years of progressive CNC machining and setup experience.
• Advanced experience independently setting up CNC milling machines or manufacturing cells.
• Experience working with 3-, 4-, or 5-axis machining equipment.
• Proficiency with CNC controls such as Fanuc, Heidenhain, or HAAS.
• Strong knowledge of tooling, fixturing, workholding, offsets, probes, and tool setters.
• The ability to read and interpret blueprints, setup sheets, specifications, and technical documentation.

Responsibilities

• Review new jobs and determine tooling, fixturing, offsets, and setup approach.
• Set up complex parts on 3-, 4-, and 5-axis CNC machines using probes and tool setters.
• Identify cause of machining or setup problems and make adjustments.
• Perform machine-side program edits and create or modify subroutines as authorized.
• Verify dimensions and tolerances before releasing work for production.
• Document proven setups and train other machinists on the process.
• Coordinate with production, programming, engineering, and quality teams to meet timelines.

Skills

CNC setup

Multi-axis machining

Probing/offsets

Blueprint interpretation

G-code/M-code

Problem solving

Mentoring

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Associate degree or technical training preferred

Tools

Fanuc controls

Heidenhain controls

HAAS controls

Job description

Build Precision at the Highest Level at 5th Axis

At 5th Axis, we’re global leaders in precision machining, automated production, and turnkey manufacturing solutions. From advanced workholding systems to zero-point technology, we design, build, and deliver solutions that empower machinists and manufacturers worldwide.

If you’re an experienced CNC machinist who takes pride in building reliable setups, solving difficult machining problems, and helping others succeed, this is your opportunity to bring your expertise to an advanced manufacturing environment.

Own Complex CNC Setups from Start to Finish

As a CNC Setup Machinist, you’ll independently set up and operate advanced 3-, 4-, and 5-axis CNC equipment across multiple machine platforms.

You’ll review drawings and manufacturing documentation, prepare tooling and fixtures, perform machine prove-outs, troubleshoot process issues, and verify that completed parts meet exact quality requirements. You’ll also document successful setups and help other machinists develop their technical capabilities.

This is a senior, hands‑on position for a machinist who can take ownership of complex setups and keep production moving safely, accurately, and efficiently.

What the Job Looks Like

• You review a new job and determine the tooling, fixturing, offsets, and setup approach needed to run it successfully.
• You set up complex parts on 3-, 4-, and 5-axis CNC machines using probes and tool setters.
• You identify the cause of a machining or setup problem and make the necessary adjustments.
• You perform machine-side program edits and create subroutines within established authority.
• You verify dimensions and tolerances before releasing work for continued production.
• You document proven setups and train other machinists on the correct process.
• You work across production, programming, engineering, and quality to resolve technical issues.

What You’ll Do Here

• Set up and operate 3-, 4-, and 5-axis CNC machines and automated manufacturing cells.
• Work across equipment such as Hermle, Mikron, HAAS, Doosan, and Grob machines.
• Interpret blueprints, setup sheets, parts lists, specifications, and customer requirements.
• Select, install, measure, and verify cutting tools, fixtures, and workholding.
• Complete setups using probes, tool setters, offsets, and other machine‑control functions.
• Make minor machine-side program edits and create or modify subroutines as authorized.
• Troubleshoot complex machining, tooling, fixturing, setup, and process problems.
• Optimize setups, tooling, and machining processes for quality, repeatability, and efficiency.
• Verify dimensions, tolerances, and overall part quality using appropriate inspection equipment.
• Document setup information and train team members on established processes.
• Review Epicor job information, routers, part counts, and revision requirements.
• Coordinate with production, programming, engineering, and quality teams to meet manufacturing timelines.
• Maintain a clean and safe work area while following established safety and quality standards.

What You’ll Bring

• Five or more years of progressive CNC machining and setup experience, or equivalent demonstrated technical expertise.
• Advanced experience independently setting up CNC milling machines or manufacturing cells.
• Experience working with 3-, 4-, or 5-axis machining equipment.
• Proficiency with CNC controls such as Fanuc, Heidenhain, or HAAS.
• Strong knowledge of tooling, fixturing, workholding, offsets, probes, and tool setters.
• The ability to read and interpret blueprints, setup sheets, specifications, and technical documentation.
• Working knowledge of G-code, M-code, machine-side program edits, and subroutines.
• The ability to troubleshoot complex machining and setup problems with minimal supervision.
• Experience verifying tight tolerances using precision measurement and inspection equipment.
• Strong manufacturing math, organization, communication, and attention to detail.
• The ability to document processes and help train or mentor other machinists.
• A high school diploma or equivalent; an associate degree, apprenticeship, or technical training is preferred.

Who This Role Is Ideal For

• Experienced CNC machinists ready to take ownership of complex setups.
• Setup machinists with advanced multi‑axis machining experience.
• Senior machinists who enjoy troubleshooting, process optimization, and technical problem‑solving.
• Machinists who are comfortable working across multiple machines, controls, and manufacturing processes.
• Technical experts who enjoy documenting best practices and developing other machinists.
• Detail‑focused professionals who take pride in producing accurate, repeatable work.
• Machinists seeking continued technical advancement without leaving hands‑on manufacturing.

Why You’ll Love Working With Us

• Competitive pay with performance‑based bonus opportunities
• 100% company‑paid medical coverage available for employees
• Company‑paid life and disability insurance
• 401(k) with up to a 5% company match
• Generous paid time off and paid holidays
• Training and meaningful opportunities for career advancement
• A supportive, non‑corporate culture where your ideas matter
• Company-sponsored team events and activities

Ready to Put Your CNC Expertise to Work?

This is more than another machine‑operator position. It’s an opportunity to own complex setups, solve demanding manufacturing problems, and help strengthen the machining capabilities of an entire production team.

5th Axis is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity, value different perspectives, and believe everyone has the ability to make an impact. If you need an accommodation during the application or interview process, please contact [e-mail] .