CNC Machinist​/Operator; Mills & Lathes – Axis

About the Role

Wild West Systems is building advanced defense weapons for the future warfighter in a fast‑paced, high‑output environment. We are looking for a mid-level CNC Machinist/Operator who can take ownership of machines, keep them running, and produce high‑quality parts with minimal oversight.

This is not a button‑pushing role. You will be responsible for setups, offsets, inspection, and keeping production moving.

• Operate CNC mills and lathes (3‑axis, 5‑axis, and mill‑turn)
• Perform machine setups, tool changes, and work holding setups
• Adjust and manage offsets to maintain part tolerances
• Run production and prototype parts (high‑mix, low‑volume + production runs)
• Inspect parts using:
  • Calipers, micrometers, gauges
  • Keyence optical inspection systems
• Sign off on part quality and take ownership of output
• Manage tooling, tool wear, and replacements
• Handle coolant systems and chip management
• Perform basic preventative maintenance on machines
• Identify issues and take action to reduce scrap and improve efficiency
• Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient work area (5S mindset)

• Experience operating CNC mills and lathes (Okuma, DMG, Mazak, etc.)
• Familiarity with controls:
  • Okuma OSP, Fanuc, Siemens (or similar)
• Ability to:
  • Read and interpret engineering drawings
  • Hold tight tolerances consistently
  • Set and adjust offsets independently
• Experience with 5‑axis machining environments
• Comfortable running both mill and lathe work
• Strong inspection skills (hand tools required)
• High ownership mindset - you fix problems, not pass them on
• Ability to work with urgency and keep machines running

• Aerospace or defense machining experience
• Exposure to lean manufacturing principles

• Day shift (primary)
• Occasional overtime, late nights, or weekends when needed to hit deadlines
• Fast‑paced startup environment - priorities shift, speed matters

• Machines are running consistently with minimal downtime
• Parts are in tolerance without constant supervision
• Scrap is minimized and issues are proactively addressed
• Work area is clean, organized, and efficient
• You take ownership of your machines and output