Systems Engineering & Automation

Job Description: CNC Machinist — Aerospace Turning

Systems Engineering & Automation Corporation

15601 West Lincoln Avenue

New Berlin, WI 53151

Department: Manufacturing & Machining Operations

Reports To: CNC Shift Lead / Supervisor

Citizenship Status: U.S. Citizenship required or U.S. Work Authorization

Experience Level: Senior / Journeyman (8–15 Years)

Total Positions Available: 8 (2 Group 1 Day, 2 Group 1 Night, 2 Group 2 Day, 2 Group 2 Night)

Shift Schedule

Group 1, Day: Mon–Wed + Thu (half day) 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Group 1, Night: Mon–Wed + Thu (half day) 6:00 PM – 6:00 AM

Group 2, Day: Thu (half day) + Fri–Sun 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Group 2, Night: Thu (half day) + Fri–Sun 6:00 PM – 6:00 AM

All shifts follow a 3.5 days on / 3.5 days off rotating schedule — averaging approximately 42 hours per week. Shift differential pay applies to all night shifts.

Position Summary

We are seeking experienced Journeyman CNC Machinists with 8–15 years of hands-on experience to join our aerospace precision turning operation. In this role you will be responsible for the full setup and operation of small to medium CNC turning centers to produce precision aerospace components from difficult-to-machine alloys including titanium, Inconel, stainless steel, and aluminum. You will work from engineering drawings and specifications, plan your own setups, and be held to the highest standards of dimensional accuracy and workmanship.

This is a true journeyman-level role. You will be expected to operate independently, troubleshoot complex machining problems, and consistently produce first-quality parts to aerospace tolerances. Experience in AS9100 or ISO9001 quality environments and a zero-defect mindset are essential. If you take pride in your craft and hold yourself to the same standards as the aerospace industry demands, we want to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up and operate small to medium CNC turning centers (2- and 3-axis with live tooling) to machine aerospace-grade alloys including titanium, Inconel, stainless steel, and aluminum to print specifications.
• Plan and execute machine setups independently from the engineering drawing, including workholding selection, tooling selection and assembly, offset entry, and datum establishment.
• Interpret and work directly from engineering drawings, GD&T callouts, and manufacturing specifications; identify and resolve drawing discrepancies or ambiguities with engineering or the supervisor.
• Load, verify, and edit CNC programs (G-code/M-code) at the machine control; make offset and tool path adjustments to maintain dimensional accuracy throughout the run.
• Select appropriate cutting tools, inserts, and boring bars for each operation; optimize speeds, feeds, depths of cut, and coolant strategies for aerospace materials.
• Perform in-process inspection using precision measurement instruments including micrometers, bore gauges, dial indicators, CMMs, and hard gauges; verify dimensions and GD&T callouts throughout the machining process.
• Troubleshoot and resolve machining problems including dimensional non-conformances, surface finish issues, chatter, tool wear, and program errors using sound machining principles.
• Perform and document first-article, in-process, and final inspections in accordance with ISO9001 / AS9100 quality requirements; complete travelers, work orders, and inspection records accurately.
• Monitor tool wear and change tooling proactively to maintain consistent part quality throughout the production run.
• Perform routine machine maintenance including lubrication, coolant management, chuck and turret maintenance, and general cleanliness; report mechanical issues to the supervisor.
• Adhere to all safety protocols and PPE requirements; handle aerospace raw material and finished parts with care to prevent damage or contamination.
• Collaborate with engineers, quality inspectors, programmers, and the shift supervisor to resolve production challenges and support continuous improvement.
• Provide technical guidance and mentoring to junior CNC lathe operators as needed.

Required Qualifications

• 8–15 years of hands-on CNC turning experience at a journeyman level in an aerospace, defense, or precision manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency operating small to medium CNC turning centers; experience with live tooling and sub-spindle operations is a strong plus.
• Expert-level ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, GD&T callouts, and manufacturing specifications; ability to independently plan setups from a print.
• Proven ability to hold tight tolerances (±0.0005" or tighter) consistently on aerospace components.
• Advanced skill with precision measurement instruments: micrometers, bore gauges, dial indicators, CMMs, and hard gauges.
• Deep knowledge of aerospace materials and their machining characteristics including titanium, Inconel, stainless steel, aluminum alloys, and heat-resistant superalloys.
• Strong understanding of cutting tool selection, insert geometry, speeds/feeds, and coolant strategies for difficult aerospace alloys.
• Familiarity with ISO9001 or AS9100 quality management systems and aerospace production documentation requirements.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision; strong problem-solving skills and a zero-defect mindset.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods throughout a 12-hour shift.
• U.S. Citizenship required or U.S. Work Authorization.

Preferred Qualifications

• CNC programming experience using G-code/M-code at the machine control; ability to write or edit turning programs independently.
• Proficiency with CAM software (Mastercam, Fusion 360, or equivalent) for turned part programming.
• Experience with NADCAP-regulated processes or AS9100-certified production environments.
• Journeyman machinist certification, formal apprenticeship completion, or equivalent documented trade training.
• NIMS (National Institute for Metalworking Skills) certification or equivalent.
• Experience with multi-axis turning/milling centers (Y-axis, B-axis, or mill-turn platforms).
• Experience mentoring or training junior CNC operators in a production environment.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Active manufacturing floor environment; exposure to machine noise, coolant fluids, metal chips, cutting oils, and varying temperatures.
• Regular use of PPE including safety glasses, steel-toed boots, hearing protection, and cut-resistant gloves.
• Must be able to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs; comfortable working in a fast-paced, high-expectation production environment.
• All positions follow a 3.5 days on / 3.5 days off rotating schedule with 12-hour shifts, averaging approximately 42 hours per week.

What We Offer

• Competitive hourly wage of $28–$42/hr (Day Shift), with shift differential pay for Night Shift ($31–$45/hr), commensurate with experience and journeyman skill level.
• Profit Sharing.
• Health insurance reimbursement.
• Paid time off, holidays, and sick leave.
• Tuition reimbursement and support for professional certifications.
• Stable, long-term employment working on challenging, high-value aerospace components.
• Collaborative team environment with clear advancement opportunities into lead, supervisor, or programming roles.

Benefits:

• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Profit sharing