CNC Machinist

Position Title: CNC Set-up Machinist (Mill-turn, Mazak)

Company Industry: Critical Aerospace/Defense assemblies & components

Location: Kearny Mesa, Ca. (San Diego)

Shift: 11:30pm – 6:30am, M-F

Comp: $35.00 – $42.50/hr. DOE (Includes Shift Differential)

About the Company:

Our client is a multi-national manufacturer of high-precision, close-tolerance components and assemblies for the aerospace and defense industries. Their San Diego facility, one of several dozen across the U.S., specializes in advanced CNC machining—including multi-axis milling and mill-turn processes— for high-strength, heat- and corrosion-resistant metals and alloys for extreme-performance applications. As a trusted supplier to major aerospace OEMs and Tier 1 contractors, this organization supports mission-critical applications across both commercial and military aircraft platforms.

About the role:

We are seeking an experienced Set-up Machinist for a full-time, third-shift opportunity offering a 25% shift differential and a consistent Monday–Friday schedule (11:30 PM – 6:30 AM). This role is ideal for someone with solid experience setting up and operating advanced CNC milling or mill-turn equipment ; experience on Mazak and/or Fanuc controls is strongly preferred.

Key Responsibilities:

• Set up and operate CNC machines including mills, lathes, and vertical turret lathes (VTLs).
• Read and interpret blueprints, sketches, and technical documentation to determine machining methods and tolerances.
• Select, align, and secure fixtures, tooling, attachments, and workpieces.
• Monitor machine operation and adjust settings to maintain precision and quality.
• Perform part inspections using a variety of measuring tools (calipers, micrometers, bar gauges) to ensure conformance to specifications.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and support continuous improvement initiatives.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area in accordance with 5S and lean manufacturing practices.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED required; vocational training in machining or manufacturing is a plus.
• Several years of CNC machining experience with demonstrated ability to perform complex set-ups on CNC Mills
• Proficient in shop math, GD&T, feeds & speeds, and blueprint reading.
• Experience working with Mazak and/or Fanuc controls (Mazak preferred).
• Ability to work independently, meet production timelines, and collaborate effectively in a team environment.

Preferred Experience:

• Background in aerospace or defense precision machining environments
• Strong exposure to multi-axis CNC Mills or Mill-turn equipment, especially those by Mazak.
• Proactive approach to machine troubleshooting and minor maintenance tasks.