CNC Lathe Machinist - 2nd Shift

Aerospace Precision Manufacturing
Agawam, Massachusetts

Position Overview

Our CNC Lathe Machinists play a critical role in the manufacture of high-precision aerospace components. This position is designed for a strong machinist who takes ownership of setup quality, process discipline, and results on the floor.

The CNC Lathe Machinist is responsible for independently setting up, operating, and optimizing multi-axis CNC turning centers to produce complex, tight-tolerance parts from challenging aerospace materials. This role goes beyond machine operation, requiring sound technical judgment, advanced blueprint and GD&T interpretation, and proactive problem-solving in collaboration with Engineering and Quality.

Success in this position demands precision, accountability, and pride in workmanship. The ideal candidate thrives in a high-mix, low-volume aerospace environment, values doing the job right the first time, and contributes to continuous improvement through expertise, reliability, and disciplined execution within AS9100 quality standards.

Essential Responsibilities

• Independently set up, prove out, and operate CNC lathes with C-axis and Y-axis capability using jaws of various sizes as well as 16C and 5C collets.
• Run multi-axis CNC turning centers with live tooling, sub-spindles, and Y-axis features when required.
• Read and interpret complex engineering drawings, GD&T callouts, work instructions, and customer specifications.
• Select cutting tools, workholding, jaws, collets, fixtures, and inspection methods appropriate for each operation.
• Machine high-value aerospace components to extremely tight tolerances with a strong focus on repeatability and first-pass yield.
• Work with challenging materials including Inconel, titanium, hardened steels, stainless alloys, and other heat-resistant aerospace materials.
• Perform first article work and in-process verification using advanced metrology tools and precision measuring techniques.
• Adjust feeds, speeds, offsets, and tooling strategies to maintain dimensional accuracy, surface finish, and process stability.
• Identify and resolve machining, tooling, workholding, and dimensional issues proactively, collaborating with Engineering and Quality when required.
• Ensure strict compliance with AS9100 quality systems, documentation, traceability requirements, and applicable aerospace standards.
• Maintain an organized, safe, and efficient workspace aligned with lean manufacturing and 5S principles.

Qualifications & Experience

• Minimum of 3-7 years of CNC lathe setup and operation experience in aerospace or high-precision manufacturing.
• Strong CNC lathe machining experience with C-axis and Y-axis work, jaws of various sizes, and 16C / 5C collet setups.
• Strong multi-axis CNC turning background; live tooling, sub-spindle, and Y-axis experience preferred.
• Strong blueprint reading and GD&T interpretation skills.
• Demonstrated success producing complex parts and accurate first articles with minimal supervision.
• Hands-on experience with precision inspection equipment and dimensional verification.
• Working knowledge of AS9100 quality systems and aerospace documentation requirements preferred.
• Exceptional attention to detail, accountability, and pride in workmanship.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Okuma and/or Fanuc controls.
• Background in continuous improvement or lean manufacturing environments.
• Technical degree or certification in Machining Technology or Manufacturing Engineering.
• Prior experience supporting prototype, low-volume, high-mix aerospace work.

Why Join Parts Tool & Die