Job at a glance
Job Title: CNC Machinist – Located in Liberty, SC Job Description This role serves as the lead CNC Machinist and technical resource for the machining department, with a primary focus on Swiss lathes, CNC lathes, and EDM equipment. You will develop complex CNC programs from 3D models, drive first article and production release activities, and ensure high-quality aerospace components are produced efficiently and consistently.
The position combines hands-on programming, process optimization, shop floor leadership, and material flow coordination to maintain throughput, quality, and operational excellence. Responsibilities Serve as the lead for the machining department, providing guidance on programming, setups, and machining strategies. Develop CNC programs from 3D models using CAM software (with a strong preference for Mastercam), ensuring programs are efficient, safe, and repeatable.
Select appropriate tooling, define machining strategies, establish work coordinates, and create clear and accurate setup documentation for operators and setters. Lead and support first article development, prove-outs, and production release for new and existing parts, ensuring processes are stable and validated. Troubleshoot machining processes, including chip control, chatter, tool life, and cycle time optimization, and implement corrective actions to improve performance.
Oversee and assist with machine setups and changeovers across the shop to ensure production readiness and minimize downtime. Provide technical support to operators and setters to ensure parts meet quality requirements, and support in-process and final inspection of precision aerospace components. Upload and download CNC programs using DNC systems, maintain proper revision control, and ensure programs and documentation remain current and accurate.
Ensure compliance with all quality standards and documentation requirements, including adherence to aerospace specifications and internal procedures. Support material handling activities, including staging raw material, moving work-in-process, and transferring finished goods between operations to maintain smooth flow. Coordinate with the tool room, inspection, and production control to ensure material, tooling, and resources are available for scheduled work.
Assist in loading and unloading bar feeders, material racks, and machine staging areas to keep machines supplied and running efficiently. Ensure proper identification, traceability, and handling of aerospace materials throughout the process, maintaining strict control over lot and material status. Support general shop organization and cleanliness to maintain a safe, efficient, and well-organized work environment.
Act as the lead on the shop floor and help coordinate daily production activities to meet schedule and customer requirements. Assist in prioritizing work, organizing schedules, and ensuring machines are properly staffed and running to maximize throughput. Step in to support or direct shop activities in the absence of the Machining Supervisor, providing day-to-day leadership and decision-making. Help train and mentor operators, setters, and junior programmers in programming, setups, best practices, and quality standards.
Identify opportunities for process improvements, cycle time reduction, and cost savings, and help implement changes to improve overall performance. Support continuous improvement initiatives within the machining department, contributing to ongoing enhancements in processes, quality, and efficiency. Essential Skills High school diploma or equivalent. 7+ years of CNC machining experience. Proven experience in developing new parts from print or 3D model through to stable production.
Strong experience with CAM software, with Mastercam strongly preferred. 3+ years of experience with Swiss lathes (Tornos), CNC lathes, and/or EDM equipment preferred but highly relevant to the role. Strong experience in precision inspection and adherence to rigorous quality standards