CNC Lathe Machinist Job Description

Where a CNC Machine Operator runs a proven program, the CNC Lathe Machinist owns the setup, the program proof-out, and the final call on whether a turned part meets print. Tooling choice for each material rests here too. On turning floors that run lots beyond 100 units, the machinist interprets GD&T callouts and separates true machine deviation from cutter or work-holding problems before scrap builds up. Statistical process control charts and non-conformance records then carry that judgment to the inspectors, leads, and supervisors who release each lot.

You will own the accuracy of every turned part leaving your machine, serving as the CNC Lathe Machinist who keeps close-tolerance work flowing to final inspection without rework. Working with minimal direction from area leads and supervisors, the machinist also guides operators and lower-level machinists on the same production team.

Career Impact: Proving out new part programs and reading GD&T at a practical level gives you skills that precision shops weigh heavily when hiring.

Business Impact: Catching out-of-tolerance machining at the lathe keeps yield up and spares final inspection from rejecting whole lots of parts.

Growth Opportunity: Guiding operators and lower-level machinists today prepares you for Lead Machinist or CNC Programmer responsibilities.

• Set up CNC lathes and turning centers, including tool changes and work holding, to produce parts to blueprint specifications.
• Program and prove out CNC programs and process instructions for new parts and engineering changes.
• Monitor machine operation to detect malfunctions or out-of-tolerance machining, adjusting controls and alerting leads when issues arise.
• Inspect finished parts against close blueprint tolerances and record measurements on statistical process control charts.
• Select and replace cutting tools appropriate to the material being machined and the operation.
• Complete production logs, routers, and non-conformance documentation accurately for every work order processed.
• Perform preventive maintenance and housekeeping while following safety procedures and personal protective equipment requirements.
• Guide operators and lower-level machinists with technical assistance on setups and machine practices.

• High school diploma or equivalent, with a machining certificate or equivalent work experience.
• Prior hands-on experience setting up and operating CNC lathes, with production parts held to blueprint tolerances.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, tooling instructions, and standard charts, including practical GD&T knowledge.
• Proficiency with precision measuring instruments and accepted inspection practices used to verify close-tolerance turned parts.
• Working knowledge of CNC lathe programming, including the ability to read common G and M codes.
• Solid troubleshooting skills to distinguish machine deviation from cutter, workholding, or operator problems on the floor.
• Math skills sufficient for tolerance work and the basic arithmetic used throughout daily shop tasks.
• Commitment to shop safety practices, housekeeping standards, and consistent use of personal protective equipment.

• Experience with multi-spindle lathes or screw machines in medium- to high-volume production runs exceeding 100 units.
• Tool probe and tool pre-setter knowledge applied to shorten setups and improve repeatability between parts.
• Demonstrated experience proving out new part programs and process instructions for engineering changes and new part numbers.
• Proven ability to document tooling and fixture issues and recommend improvements to machining methods.

• First-piece approval rate on new setups, showing how cleanly programs are proved out.
• Setup time in hours per job, reflecting tooling and workholding readiness.
• Scrap and rework rate as a percentage of parts machined on assigned lathes.
• Percentage of inspected parts within tolerance on statistical process control charts, tracking process stability.
• Documentation accuracy rate for routers, logs, and non-conformance records per work order.

• Base Salary Range: $45,000 to $68,000 per year, varying with shift and setup complexity
• Bonus: Shift differentials and occasional performance or attendance bonuses, typically under 5% of base
• Equity: Rarely offered; some employee-owned shops provide ESOP participation
• Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage, often with employer-paid premiums for employees
• PTO: 10 to 15 days annually plus 6 to 9 paid holidays
• Common Perks: 401(k) matching, tool allowances, safety footwear reimbursement, and paid training or tuition assistance

Figures are estimates based on general US market benchmarks and may be outdated. Adjust based on location, company size, and seniority level.

Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States, and any offer of employment is contingent on successful completion of a background check. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under federal, state, or local law. Reasonable accommodations under the ADA are available on request for applicants and employees with disabilities.

The CNC Lathe Machinist owns the review of machining processes for turned parts, choosing the best program, setup, and tooling for each material to reach full machine efficiency. Reporting within a team environment, the CNC Lathe Machinist solves operator, machine, and yield problems under strict safety, health, and environmental procedures, keeping parts moving on any shift assigned.

Key Responsibilities

• Review machining processes to determine the best available method to fabricate parts with the best program, setup, and machine efficiency.
• Program and set up CNC machines and their controls.
• Solve problems related to operator error, machine error, maintenance problems, yield problems, etc.
• Complete other assignments and special projects as requested.
• Adhere to all safety, health, and environmental procedures, policies, and practices, such as using personal protective equipment and proper attire in keeping with safety standards.

Required Qualifications

• Excellent knowledge and understanding of selecting the best tooling for operation and appropriate to the material being machined.
• Able to read and interpret blueprints.
• Ability to work independently to set up machines, complete tool changes, and use operating controls.
• Excellent problem-solving skills, employing critical thinking, logic, and reasoning to troubleshoot.
• Proven ability to provide documentation on tooling and fixtures issues.
• Capacity to use calipers, micrometers, bore gages, optical comparators, and other measurement tools.
• Effective time management and organizational skills, with the ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously within established time constraints.
• Strong oral and written communication skills and the ability to follow verbal and written instructions well.

Embedded within a multi-axis CNC production operation, the CNC Lathe Machinist delivers high-quality, tight-tolerance machined parts by programming, setting up, and running lathes while monitoring several machines at once. Working closely with management, the CNC Lathe Machinist completes production and quality logs, maintains equipment through preventive maintenance, and offers suggestions that support continuous improvement of the company.

Core Functions

• Program, set up, and run Multi-Axis CNC Lathes to maintain high-quality, tight-tolerance machined parts.
• Monitor multiple CNC machines in production.
• Document actions by completing production and quality logs.
• Maintain safe operations by adhering to safety procedures and regulations.
• Maintain equipment by completing preventive maintenance requirements.
• Provide feedback and suggestions to management for continuous improvement of the company.

Qualifications & Experience

• 2-year technical degree (or apprenticeship certificate) or equivalent work experience.
• 5 or more years of experience setting up and operating Multi-Axis CNC Lathes.
• Experience with AS9100, a plus.
• Ability to read and program NC code with a methodical approach.
• Good mechanical skills and the ability to read blueprints and precision measuring instruments.
• Ability to be punctual, positive-minded, and work well with others.

Reporting to a supervisor, the CNC Lathe Machinist shapes medium-to-high volume output by setting up and operating a CNC multi-spindle machine on lots that exceed 100 units. Partnering with that supervisor on corrective action and method improvements, the CNC Lathe Machinist keeps required documentation complete and safety practices enforced throughout the work area.

Primary Duties

• Set up and operate a CNC multi-spindle for medium-high volume production.
• Notify supervisor of abnormal situations for corrective action.
• Make recommendations for improvements in methods of performance of work.
• Maintain good housekeeping conditions, enforce safety practices, and complete corporate safety training.
• Complete and maintain any required documentation.

Skills & Qualifications

• 5 or more years of experience on set up and operation of a CNC lathe with lot quantities that exceed 100+ units.
• Strong geometric dimensioning and tolerancing and math skills.
• Ability to read machining CNC programs and a basic understanding of common G and M codes.
• Understanding of basic tabletop gauges, including micrometers, calipers, and bore micrometers.
• Experience with CNC controls for lathe machine tools, preferred.
• Experience with multi-spindle machines, other CNC lathes, and screw machines, preferred.

Sitting at the intersection of CNC machining and quality inspection, the CNC Lathe Machinist builds parts on CNC lathes that meet tolerances for final inspection, starting with incoming visual checks of raw material. Operating across each shift with manufacturing leadership and fellow team members, the CNC Lathe Machinist cleans and inspects finished product, performs preventative maintenance, and completes documentation so shared goals are met.

Duties

• Perform incoming visual inspection of raw material.
• Perform manufacturing operations on CNC lathes.
• Machine parts to meet tolerances for final inspection.
• Inspect and clean the finished product at the end of the production cycle.
• Perform final product inspection.
• Work closely with manufacturing leadership and fellow team members to achieve shared goals.
• Perform preventative maintenance tasks.
• Complete required documentation accurately.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Machining certificate or prior CNC machining experience preferred, with training available for a motivated entry-level candidate.
• High level of mechanical aptitude.
• Ability to problem-solve.
• Dedication to safe working practices.
• Commitment to continuous development of machining skill set.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.

A key member of the machining department, the CNC Lathe Machinist leads setups and runs of repeat or proven parts, from simple to high complexity, on CNC turning centers with minimal direction. Collaborating across programmers, department leads, and operators, the CNC Lathe Machinist proves out new programs and holds close tolerances that keep statistical process control charts on target.

Functions

• Use shop paper procedures, including updates, signatures, and stamps, counting quantities, labeling, non-conformance-related activities, and an accurate router accompanying all work orders.
• Read blueprints, tooling instructions, and standard charts for specifications.
• Set up and operate CNC Turning Centers to produce parts to blueprint specifications, running all facets of work assigned.
• Provide technical assistance, guidance, and instruction to operators and lower-level machinists as required, and assist the lead person as needed.
• Upload and download tool programs through DNC communications.
• Inspect and measure parts to maintain statistical process control charts.
• Start and observe machine operation to detect malfunctions or out-of-tolerance machining, and adjust machine controls as needed.
• Recognize machine deviation versus cutter or work-holding problems and alert the Lead or Supervisor to any issues on the job or machine.
• Monitor and replace cutting tools as needed in machines and equipment, and test operation of tool to ensure proper function and performance.
• Ensure company procedures, best machine practices, 5S, and safety procedures are followed and in place at all times.
• Work directly with Programmers and Department Leads to run part-specific process instructions.
• Prove out CNC Programs and Process instructions for engineering changes and new part programs.
• Maintain close tolerances, conduct quality inspection of own work, and make adjustments as needed.

Experience & Qualifications

• Extensive knowledge of accepted inspection practices.
• Practical knowledge of theoretical and practical aspects of blueprint reading and GD&T.
• Ability to read blueprints to ensure accuracy in part making.
• Knowledge of shop safety practices and use of PPE.
• Knowledge of CNC lathe programming.
• Demonstrated ability to operate computer numerical control machines, with basic troubleshooting skills.
• Basic to intermediate knowledge of tool probes and tool pre-setters.
• Ability to speak basic English.