Senior Set-up Machinist

Company Overview

With over fifty years of proud service to the aerospace, defense, and medical device industries, our precision machining client is under new ownership and eager to take the firm to new heights. They have invested tremendously across each department to build-up their existing team, bringing in even more advanced equipment to augment their already high-end milling operations, and they’re now ready to bring on additional CNC Setup Machinists to support their 5-axis machining operations. This is truly a team that’s going places as they reach each new milestone, and they’re always looking to upskill existing employees to avoid costly external hiring; point being, this is a clean shop full of genuine, good-hearted people who enjoy what they do.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up CNC milling machines (primarily 3-, 4-, and 5-axis, with a focus on Okuma) for first-run and repeat jobs.
• Load tooling, set tool lengths and work offsets, and verify setup per job traveler and setup sheet.
• Perform first-article inspections to verify dimensional accuracy using calipers, micrometers, and height gages.
• Adjust machine parameters, tools, and offsets as needed to maintain tight tolerances.
• Read and interpret complex aerospace blueprints with GD&T callouts.
• Communicate with programmers and operators to ensure smooth job hand-off and minimize downtime.
• Maintain setup sheets, fixture documentation, and tool lists for repeatability.
• Follow all ITAR, quality control, and DPD procedures.
• Work with stainless, titanium, aluminum, Inconel, and other aerospace alloys.
• Uphold a clean, organized, and safe work environment.

Requirements

Experience:

• 7+ years of CNC machining experience, with at least 3 years performing setups on vertical and/or horizontal mills.
• Prior experience setting up Okuma, OKK, Kitamura, or similar 5-axis machines.
• Experience with aerospace-grade materials and close-tolerance parts.

Knowledge & Skills:

• Strong knowledge of FANUC and Mitsubishi CNC controls (especially on Okuma platforms).
• Skilled in blueprint reading and GD&T.
• Ability to troubleshoot programs, tooling, and setup-related issues.
• Proficient with precision measuring instruments.
• Familiarity with shop documentation, DPD practices, and FAI inspection workflows.

Example Machines & Controls

• Machines: OKUMA M560-V, OKK VM Series, Kitamura HX Series, SNK Niigata SPN 701
• Controls: FANUC Series 16i-MB / 31i-B, Mitsubishi

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive hourly pay (commensurate with experience)
• Full health benefits, 401(k), and paid time off
• Supportive team environment with advancement opportunities
• Exposure to advanced aerospace components and 5-axis machining technologies