Skilled - CNC Set UP Technician

QPS Employment Group; Rockford (IL); On-site; USD 34,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

QPS Employment Group is hiring a CNC Set Up Machinist for a direct-hire role in Rockford, IL. The position supports 1st or 2nd shift with hours 6:30am-3:00pm or 3:00pm-12:00am. You will set up, program, and optimize CNC machines to meet exact production specs.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years of CNC experience, reads blueprints, and uses precision measurement tools. Join a team focused on quality, productivity, and continuous improvement in a manufacturing setting.

Qualifications

• High school diploma/GED equivalent or significant relevant work experience.
• 5+ years of experience operating CNC machinery, including Mazaks, Doosans, INDEX, and Nakamuras.
• Ability to use measuring instruments (micrometer, calipers, gages, etc.).
• Ability to use hand tools (drills, screwdrivers, impacts, etc.).
• Ability to read/interpret blueprints and part schematics.
• Ability to read/write, perform basic arithmetic, and follow instructions.

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, and adjust CNC machinery to meet precise production requirements.
• Develop, prepare, optimize, and maintain CNC programs, fixtures, tooling, and setups.
• Troubleshoot and resolve CNC machine issues to minimize downtime.
• Perform setups for CNC lathes/mills in assigned area and assist operators/tenders.
• Inspect parts during production using micrometers and calipers to verify specs.
• Record production data and machine performance in ERP systems.
• Provide guidance and technical support to CNC Operators and Tenders.
• Train operators on processes and ensure on-time delivery and quality.
• Identify and implement continuous improvement to reduce setup times and improve quality.

Skills

CNC operation

Blueprint reading

Precision measurement

Quality assurance

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Mazak CNC

Doosan CNC

INDEX CNC

Nakamura CNC

Calipers

Micrometer

Job description

Position Title: CNC Set Up Machinist Wage: $25.00-$37.50/hour Shift: 1st or 2nd Hours: 6:30am-3:00pm or 3:00pm-12:00am QPS Employment Group is hiring a CNC Set Up Machinist for a company in Rockford, IL. This is a direct hire opportunity on 1st or 2nd shift.

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, and perform advanced adjustments on CNC machinery, including Mazaks, Doosans, INDEX, and Nakamuras, ensuring equipment is calibrated to meet precise production requirements
• Develop, prepare, optimize, and maintain CNC programs, part fixturing, tooling, and setup procedures to enhance production efficiency and quality
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex CNC machine issues, using in-depth knowledge of machinery to minimize downtime and maintain productivity
• Perform set‑ups for CNC lathes/mills in your assigned area to ensure efficient production processes and assist operators/tenders
• Inspect parts during production using precision measurement tools, such as micrometers and calipers, to verify adherence to quality specifications
• Perform first‑piece inspections, complete all quality and production paperwork, and monitor in‑process inspections conducted by tenders
• Record production data and machine performance in ERP systems, ensuring accurate tracking of materials, adjustments, and output
• Provide guidance and technical support to CNC Operators and Tenders, assisting with setups, troubleshooting, and operational challenges
• Train operators/tenders on processes, procedures, and parts, ensuring they are equipped to meet on‑time delivery and quality metrics
• Identify, document, and implement continuous improvement techniques to reduce setup times, improve production rates, machining methods, quality, and safety
• Work with additional Setup Technicians and the Engineering team to optimize machine performance, programs, and setups
• Maintain documentation for process equipment, such as setup sheets and monitoring logs, to ensure accurate records and smooth operations
• Oversee the scrap process for assigned facilities, ensuring proper documentation and adherence to established procedures
• Ensure daily preventative maintenance is performed on assigned equipment and assist the maintenance team in reducing downtime when necessary
• Follow all safety protocols, ensure proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and maintain a clean, organized workspace
• Perform basic machine maintenance and assist with advanced maintenance tasks when needed
• Any/all other duties as assigned

Requirements

• High school diploma/GED equivalent or significant relevant work experience
• 5+ years of experience operating CNC machinery, operating both single-axis and multi-axis machinery, as well as single-turret and multi-turret systems, including Mazaks, Doosans, INDEX, and Nakamuras
• Ability to use measuring instruments, i.e. micrometer, calipers, gages, etc.
• Ability to use all required hand tools, i.e. drills, screwdrivers, impacts, etc.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and part schematics
• Ability to read/write, perform basic arithmetic, and follow verbal and written instructions

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer.