CNC Setup Operator

Job Description

Job Description

Our client is a precision aerospace manufacturer producing CNC-machined components for mission-critical aerospace and defense applications. Our work requires accuracy, consistency, and compliance with AS9100 and NADCAP standards. We are looking for skilled CNC Setup Machinists to prepare, program, and set up production jobs on advanced CNC equipment.

Position Overview:

The CNC Setup Machinist is responsible for preparing CNC Mill/Lathe/Turn machines, fixtures, tools, and programs so production can run smoothly and accurately. Responsible for installing tooling, setting up fixtures, loading programs, and running first-article inspections. This role ensures the machining process is stable, accurate, and then handing off to CNC Operators for production runs so production can run smoothly and accurately.

Key Responsibilities:

• Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and GD&T specifications.
• Select, install, and align tooling, fixtures, and work-holding for CNC mills, lathes, grinders, or multi-axis machines.
• Troubleshoots dimensional issues, surface finishes, or machining strategies.
• Perform tool offsets, machine zeroing, probing cycles, and setup adjustments to achieve tight tolerances.
• Run first-article parts, perform full inspections, and verify dimensional accuracy using micrometers, calipers, CMMs, and gages.
• Troubleshooting machine issues such as tool wear, chatter, surface finish, or dimensional drift.
• Select and install tooling, work-holding fixtures, and gages for a new job.
• Document setup sheets and update process records for repeatability.
• Train and collaborate with CNC Operators to ensure smooth production hand-off.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required; technical/trade school or apprenticeship preferred.
• 3+ years of CNC setup experience in a precision machining environment, required. (aerospace/defense industry experience, strongly preferred).
• Proficiency in reading complex engineering blueprints and GD&T.
• Strong knowledge of cutting tools, feeds/speeds, and machining strategies, materials (aluminum, titanium, Inconel, stainless steel).
• Hands-on experience with CNC controls (Fanuc, Mazak, Haas, Okuma, etc.), desired.
• Knowledge of CNC Mill/Lathe/Turn, CNC Grinders, Wire EDM, (3-5 Multi-Axis) Machines, vertical and horizontal, preferred. Willing to train.
• Knowledge of machining theory, materials (Inconel, titanium, aluminum alloys, tooling, and GD&T, required.
• Ability to perform and document first-article inspections.
• Strong troubleshooting, mechanical aptitude, and problem-solving skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with CAD/CAM software (Mastercam, GibbsCAM, or similar).
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing and continuous improvement practices.
• Previous work in an AS9100 certified aerospace/defense shop.
• Leadership ability to train and mentor CNC Operators.

We’re Infinia Search. We’re a relationship-driven search firm that proves that talent, ambition, curiosity, and an infinite work ethic creates exponential results for our clients and candidates.

Company Description

We’re Infinia Search. We’re a relationship-driven search firm that proves that talent, ambition, curiosity, and an infinite work ethic creates exponential results for our clients and candidates.