Lathe Machine Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

About the Company

As a leader in US manufacturing, Hirsh Precision strives to bring new levels of productivity and product innovation into the medical, aerospace, industrial, and scientific industries by leveraging software, advanced manufacturing techniques, and new manufacturing systems.

Our company maintains a reputation of integrity, quality, service, and excellence due to the efforts of our passionate, engaged team members. We are committed to preserving our company culture as we grow and doing work that improves people's lives.

Position Summary

The CNC Lathe Machinist II is a skilled machining professional responsible for independently setting up, operating, and troubleshooting CNC equipment to manufacture high-precision components that meet customer and engineering specifications. This role supports production efficiency, quality performance, and continuous improvement while serving as a resource to entry-level machinists and apprentices.

The CNC Lathe Machinist II is expected to demonstrate strong technical ability, sound judgment, and consistent productivity across a variety of machining operations.

This role prepares employees for advancement into CNC Lathe Machinist III, Lead Machinist, Programmer, or Supervisor positions based on technical mastery, leadership ability, and sustained performance.

We are hiring for both First and Second shifts.

Key Responsibilities

Machine Setup & Operation

• Independently set up and operate CNC and Swiss lathes
• Load programs, perform offsets, edit programs as needed, and verify first-piece quality
• Select, install, and manage tooling, fixtures, and workholding for efficient production
• Run multiple machines or operations as workload requires
• Monitor cycle times, machine performance, and job progress to meet production schedules
• Record setup, downtime, and production data accurately

Quality Control

• Read and interpret complex blueprints, dimensions, tolerances, and GD&T requirements
• Use advanced inspection equipment including micrometers, indicators, bore gauges, height gauges, and other metrology tools
• Verify conformance throughout production and ensure accurate first-pass quality
• Minimize scrap and rework through strong process control and attention to detail
• Escalate nonconformance issues and assist with corrective actions

Troubleshooting & Continuous Improvement

• Diagnose machining issues involving tooling, feeds/speeds, setups, fixturing, or machine performance
• Make process adjustments to improve cycle times, reduce downtime, and improve part quality
• Recommend improvements to tooling strategies, setups, and workflow
• Participate in lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives

Mentorship & Teamwork

• Provide day-to-day guidance to Machinist I team members and apprentices
• Support training in setups, measurement techniques, and safe machine operation
• Collaborate with engineering, quality, maintenance, and supervisors to resolve issues
• Communicate production status, delays, and technical concerns clearly

Safety & Housekeeping

• Follow all safety procedures, PPE requirements, and machine safety standards
• Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient workstation
• Support 5S and workplace organization initiatives

Qualifications

Required

• High school diploma or GED preferred
• 3+ years of machining or CNC experience, or equivalent demonstrated skill level
• Ability to independently set up and run CNC equipment
• Strong blueprint reading and GD&T knowledge
• Proficiency with common inspection and measuring equipment
• Reliable attendance and punctuality

Preferred

• Experience with 4-axis and 5-axis machining centers
• CAM software or program editing experience
• Experience in high-mix, tight-tolerance manufacturing environments
• Vocational or technical machining training

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally
• Frequent bending, reaching, and repetitive hand motions
• Ability to work safely in a manufacturing environment with noise, coolant, and moving machinery

Success Metrics / Performance Expectations

• Attendance rate of 98% or higher
• Daily production goal attainment of 90% or higher
• Scrap rate of 2% or less
• Setup times at or below standard expectations
• Strong machine utilization and low avoidable downtime
• Consistent production of in-spec parts with minimal rework
• Demonstrated leadership, mentorship, and technical problem-solving contributions

You should be proficient in:

• G-Code
• M-Code
• CNC Machine Setup & Changeover

Machines & technologies you'll use:

• CNC Lathe (2-4 axis) (Mazak, Haas, Okuma)
• CNC Swiss Lathe (Tsugami)
• CNC Lathe (5+ axis) (Mazak, Okuma, Dmg Mori Seiki)