CNC VTL Machinist

Job Description

Summary/Objective

The CNC VTL Machinist is responsible for setting up and operating CNC machinery to manufacture precision components that meet engineering specifications, quality standards, and production timelines. This role requires strong technical expertise in machining processes, blueprint interpretation, and quality control, along with a commitment to safety, accuracy, and continuous improvement. The role involves working on the assembly and production floor, as needed.

Essential Functions

1. Set up and operate CNC vertical lathes and/or mill to produce precision parts.

2. Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and GD&T specifications.

3. Determine appropriate tooling, inserts, work holding, speeds, feeds, and cutting parameters.

4. Perform accurate machine setups, including workpiece alignment, indicating, tool setting, and work offsets.

5. Make in-process adjustments to compensate for tool wear, thermal effects, and dimensional variation.

6. Follow work instructions and quality documents.

7. Verify all parts and components match order and part numbers for machining.

8. Operate band saw and deburr parts after machining.

9. Perform first-piece and in-process inspections using precision measuring equipment such as micrometers, bore gauges, calipers, indicators, height gauges, and other inspection equipment.

10. Machine components to demanding dimensional, geometric, surface-finish, and concentricity requirements.

11. Understand and apply GD&T, including concentricity, runout, flatness, parallelism, perpendicularity, and position requirements.

12. Inspect finished parts using precision measuring tools.

13. Identify and report defective materials or questionable conditions.

14. Troubleshoot machining issues to meet production and quality requirements.

15. Maintain accurate production and inspection records.

16. Maintain equipment and ensure a clean, organized, and safe work environment.

17. Follow all safety procedures and company policies.

18. Collaborate with engineering and production teams to improve processes.

19. Operate forklift safely as trained

Competencies

1. CNC VTL setup and operation

2. Large-part machining

3. CNC programming and G-code

4. Blueprint reading and GD&T

5. Cutting-tool selection

6. Speeds and feeds

7. Workholding, chucking, and part alignment

8. Precision measurement and inspection

9. Machining troubleshooting

10. Mechanical aptitude

11. Mathematical skills and problem solving

12. Attention to detail and thoroughness

13. Communication proficiency

14. Time management

15. Quality awareness

16. Safe operation of cranes and material-handling equipment

Work Environment

The performance of this position will require exposure to the manufacturing areas that require the use of personal protective equipment such as safety glasses with side shields and mandatory hearing protection.

Physical Demands

Individuals may need to stand at machine for extended periods of time as needed. The position may require walking primarily on a level surface for periodic periods throughout the day. Ability to lift, move, and position tooling and work holding equipment safely. The employee may reach above shoulder heights or below the waist or lift as required throughout the workday. Proper lifting techniques are required and individuals must have the ability to lift up to 65 lbs.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

This is a full-time position. Hours of work are Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Friday, for a total of 40 hours per week. Overtime/additional work time is required when necessary.

Required Education and Experience

1. High school diploma or GED

2. 3+ years of CNC machining experience, with significant experience operating CNC VTLs or large vertical turning centers.

3. Knowledge of turning, boring, grooving, facing, drilling, tapping, and profiling operations.

4. Proficiency with CNC mills and/or all lathes

5. Experience with probing systems and tool measurement.

6. Strong ability to read and interpret blueprints and GD&T

7. Ability to achieve and verify tight dimensional, concentricity, roundness, parallelism, perpendicularity, and runout requirements.

8. Strong knowledge of cutting tools, inserts, speeds, feeds, and machining processes.

9. Ability to troubleshoot machining and dimensional problems independently.

10. Experience with precision measuring instruments and quality inspection

11. Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing quality parts

12. Basic…