12+ years of CNC machining experience, specifically with Swiss and multi-axis lathes
Proven leadership in continuous improvement initiatives, including Lean and 5S methodologies
Experience with machining diverse materials like stainless steel, titanium, Inconel, and copper
Strong proficiency in G-code/M-code programming and CAM software (e.g., Mastercam)
Advanced skills in blueprint reading and GD&T interpretation
Excellent communication skills for cross-department collaboration
Technical certification or associate degree in Machining or Manufacturing preferred
Responsibilities
Lead and support CNC machinists in programming and operating multi-axis Swiss screw machines and CNC lathes
Train and mentor team members on best practices for setups and process controls
Serve as the escalation point for technical issues during production runs
Interpret complex engineering drawings and select efficient tooling and parameters
Manage cutting tools and monitor wear to prevent defects
Collaborate with engineering and quality teams to optimize toolpaths and fixtures
Participate in continuous improvement projects to reduce setup and cycle times
Support quoting by estimating machining time and costs from customer specifications
Benefits
Hands-on technical leadership role with opportunities for mentorship
Focus on continuous improvement and process optimization
Engagement in cross-functional collaboration with engineering and quality teams
Involvement in Kaizen events and Lean initiatives
Opportunity to work with advanced CNC technology and diverse materials
Full Job Description
CNC Process Specialist
Reports to: Operations Manager Schedule: 1st shift, onsite Compensation: $90,000 - $115,000, based on experience
About the Role A precision manufacturer is looking for a seasoned CNC Process Specialist to lead and elevate its Swiss and multi-axis turning operations. This is a hands-on technical leadership role for someone who wants to do more than run production. You'll guide a team of skilled machinists, dig into toolpaths and cutting parameters, cut setup and cycle times, and drive the continuous improvement work that makes a shop faster, cleaner, and more consistent across shifts.
What You'll Do
Technical leadership
Lead and support CNC Machinists who program, set up, and run multi-axis Swiss screw machines (Citizen, Tsugami, Tornos Deco, Escomatic, or similar) and multi-axis CNC lathes (such as the DMG Mori NLX2500) producing tight-tolerance components
Train and mentor machinists and operators on best-practice setups and process controls
Serve as the escalation point for G-code issues, tool wear, chatter, and dimensional drift during live runs
Process engineering and optimization
Interpret complex engineering drawings, CAD models, GD&T, and technical specifications
Select the most efficient tooling, feeds, and speeds for complex geometries, reducing cycle time while holding tolerance
Specify and manage cutting tools, collets, and guide bushings; monitor tool wear and program wear offsets to prevent defects
Partner with engineering, quality, and machining teams to redesign fixtures, toolpaths, and cutting parameters for better part flow
Continuous improvement
Lead or participate in Kaizen events and rapid-improvement projects focused on setup and cycle-time reduction
Apply Lean tools, including 5S, standard work, and SMED, to machine cells
Identify and eliminate waste on the shop floor: defects, scrap, excess motion, waiting, and overprocessing
Quoting and documentation
Support the quoting process by estimating machining time and cost from customer drawings and CAD files to build profitable bids
Create and maintain SOPs, setup sheets, operation manuals, and inspection reports that ensure repeatability across shifts
Communicate process and procedural issues to the appropriate supervisors and departments
Perform other related duties as assigned
What You Bring
12+ years of machining experience on CNC Swiss and multi-axis CNC lathes
Proven track record leading shop-floor continuous improvement, including 5S, Lean, root-cause analysis, and process mapping
Experience machining a range of materials, including stainless steel, titanium, Inconel, and copper
Strong working knowledge of G-code/M-code programming and CAM software (e.g., Mastercam)
Advanced blueprint reading and a strong command of GD&T
Clear written and verbal communication skills and the ability to work well with people across the organization
Strong hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity
High school diploma or GED required; technical certification or associate degree in Machining, Manufacturing, or a related field preferred
