Job Type

Full-time

Description

Job Title: CNC Mill & Lathe Operator
Department: Manufacturing / Production
Reports To: Production Manager
Employment Type: Full-Time onsite
Location: Santa Fe Springs, CA

Position Summary

PMD Aerospace is seeking a skilled and dependable CNC Mill & Lathe Operator to support our precision aerospace manufacturing operations.

The ideal candidate will have experience operating 3,4,5 Axis CNC milling machines and 2-axis CNC lathes, interpreting engineering drawings, performing dimensional inspections, and producing high-quality machined components.

This position requires attention to detail, a strong commitment to quality, and the ability to work efficiently while maintaining aerospace manufacturing standards.

Requirements

Key Responsibilities

1. CNC Machine Operations

Operate CNC vertical and horizontal milling machines and CNC lathes.
Load and unload materials, fixtures, and finished components.
Perform machine setups and tooling changes as qualified and assigned.
Monitor machining operations to ensure part quality and efficiency.
Make approved tool offset and wear adjustments.
Identify and report machine problems, abnormal conditions, or tooling issues.
Maintain proper coolant levels and perform routine machine maintenance.
Minimize machine downtime and maximize productivity.

2. Quality Control & Inspection

Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and manufacturing instructions.
Understand geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T).
Use precision measuring instruments, including calipers, micrometers, bore gauges, height gauges, and indicators.
Perform first-piece, in-process, and final dimensional inspections as assigned.
Verify that manufactured parts meet customer specifications and drawing requirements.
Complete inspection documentation accurately.
Immediately report nonconforming parts and quality concerns.
Follow AS9100 quality management requirements and applicable customer procedures.

3. Production & Documentation

Follow job travelers, work instructions, and manufacturing routings.
Accurately record labor hours, production quantities, and job progress in JobBOSS.
Maintain accurate part identification and material traceability.
Meet established production schedules and quality requirements.
Properly identify and segregate nonconforming material.
Communicate job status, tooling needs, and production issues to management.
Maintain organized and accurate manufacturing paperwork.

4. Safety & Housekeeping

Follow all company safety policies and machine operating procedures.
Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).
Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area.
Keep machines, tooling, fixtures, and inspection equipment in proper condition.
Follow good housekeeping and 5S practices.
Report unsafe conditions or equipment malfunctions immediately.

5. Teamwork & Continuous Improvement

Work cooperatively with machinists, programmers, inspectors, and management.
Support continuous improvement initiatives to reduce scrap, rework, and setup time.
Assist with identifying opportunities to improve machining efficiency.
Demonstrate dependability, accountability, and a positive work attitude.
Be willing to learn new machines, machining techniques, and manufacturing processes.

Minimum Qualifications

3+ years of CNC machining experience preferred.
Experience operating CNC mills, CNC lathes, or both.
Ability to read and understand engineering drawings.
Working knowledge of precision measuring equipment.
Basic understanding of cutting tools, machining processes, and materials.
Ability to perform basic machine adjustments and tool offset corrections.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
Reliable attendance and punctuality.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience in aerospace or defense manufacturing.
Familiarity with AS9100 quality requirements.
Experience with FANUC and Mitsubishi CNC controls.
Experience with 3-axis, 4-axis, or 5-axis CNC machining.
Understanding of GD&T and tight-tolerance machining.
Experience machining aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, and high-temperature alloys.
Experience using JobBOSS or similar manufacturing software.
Ability to perform independent machine setups.
Work a 9/80 schedule
Must be a U.S. citizen or green card holder

Performance Expectations

Employees in this position are expected to:

Produce quality parts that meet engineering and customer requirements.
Maintain accurate production and inspection records.
Achieve established production targets and machining cycle times.
Minimize scrap, rework, and unnecessary machine downtime.
Maintain a clean and safe working environment.
Communicate problems promptly and professionally.
Demonstrate consistent attendance, teamwork, and accountability.
Follow company policies and quality procedures.

Physical Requirements

Ability to stand for extended periods.
Ability to lift up to 40 pounds, with assistance or lifting equipment for heavier items.
Ability to bend, reach, and perform repetitive manufacturing tasks.
Ability to work safely around moving machinery, cutting tools, and coolant.

Equal Employment Opportunity

PMD Aerospace is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, experience, performance, and business needs, consistent with applicable laws.

Salary Description

hourly

CNC Mill and Lathe Machinist level 2