Swiss CNC Setup Machinist

Tree Top Staffing is recruiting a Swiss CNC Setup Machinist for a growing, family-owned precision machining company serving aerospace, defense, and other precision manufacturing industries.

Find out if this opportunity is a good fit by reading all of the information that follows below.
This opportunity offers a day-shift schedule with Friday afternoons off, voluntary overtime, a climate-controlled shop, and medical coverage for employees and eligible family members with an employee contribution of just $1 per week.
POSITION OVERVIEW:The Swiss CNC Setup Machinist will program, set up, adjust, and prove out multi-axis Swiss-style CNC automatic lathes to manufacture high-precision, close-tolerance components.Supporting five Star Swiss machines, this person will take new jobs from engineering drawings or models through programming, tooling preparation, setup, first-piece approval, and production handoff. The primary focus is establishing reliable processes and supporting operators, rather than continuously operating a single machine.
The ideal candidate brings independent programming and setup capabilities, strong blueprint-reading skills, proficiency with precision measuring instruments, and the troubleshooting ability to improve machining processes.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:Machine Setup and Programming• Perform complete setups on multi-axis Swiss CNC lathes, including selecting, mounting, and aligning cutting tools, guide bushings, collets, and bar feeders.• Write programs from engineering drawings or models using the machine control or CAD/CAM software.• Load and edit established programs, prove out new programs, and adjust G-code and M-code to improve cycle times and component accuracy.• Coordinate with scheduling to prepare tooling packages, collets, and other requirements ahead of job changes.• Perform tool touch-offs, establish offsets, run initial parts, and make necessary corrections.Production and Quality Assurance• Inspect first pieces and coordinate with the quality department for final approval before production.• Use micrometers, calipers, height gauges, bore gauges, gauge pins, and other precision measuring instruments.• Maintain close tolerances, often within ±0.0002 inch on inside and outside diameters.• Inspect threads, surface finishes, and critical dimensions against engineering drawings and applicable GD&T requirements.• Accurately document setup sheets, tool lists, and inspection records in ProShop.• Train operators on established jobs and assist with repeat setups and production questions.Troubleshooting and Process Optimization• Resolve machining issues involving tool wear, chatter, chip control, threading, dimensional variation, and material binding.• Adjust feeds, speeds, tooling, and offsets to maximize tool life and maintain part quality.• Develop stable, repeatable processes that operators can run efficiently across shifts.• Collaborate with experienced machinists, programmers, and quality personnel to resolve complex issues.Maintenance and Shop Safety• Perform routine daily maintenance on machines and bar feeders, including coolant checks, lubrication, and chip cleanout.• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized workstation following 5S and company safety guidelines.
QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS:• Demonstrated ability to independently write CNC programs from scratch and complete new-part setups.• Experience programming, setting up, and operating Swiss-style CNC lathes, such as Star, Citizen, Tsugami, Nomura, or comparable equipment.• Three or more years of relevant experience preferred; demonstrated independent capability is more important than a specific number of years.• Strong blueprint-reading skills and a working understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).• Familiarity with guide bushing adjustments, sub-spindle synchronization, and live tooling applications.• Proficiency with precision measuring instruments and close-tolerance machining.• Strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and troubleshooting skills.• Ability to work independently, collaborate with teammates, train operators, and respond constructively to feedback.• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and stand for extended periods, with reasonable accommodation as applicable.Prior Star experience is not required. Highly capable mill-turn programmers and setup machinists with limited Swiss experience may also be considered.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:• Experience with Fanuc 30 Series controls.• Offline programming experience using Mastercam or comparable CAD/CAM software.• Experience machining stainless steel and alloy steel; titanium and Inconel experience is a plus.• Aerospace or defense manufacturing experience.• Journeyman Machinist certification or a trade school degree in Precision Machining or Tooling.• Experience supporting multiple machines and training production operators.
SCHEDULE:• Monday–Thursday: 7:00 AM–4:15 PM, including a 30-minute unpaid lunch.• Friday: 7:00 AM–noon.• Voluntary overtime is currently available, typically 10–20 additional hours per week.
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:• $30–$40 per hour, with flexibility up to $45 per hour for an exceptionally qualified candidate.• Medical coverage for employees and eligible family members with an employee contribution of $1 per week.• Optional dental and vision coverage at the employee’s expense.• Two to four weeks of PTO, depending on the agreed hiring package.• Paid holidays.• Continued training and professional development opportunities.• Heated and air-conditioned work environment.• Relocation assistance may be considered for a qualified candidate. xzbcwsv
HOW TO APPLY:Apply with your resume highlighting your Swiss or mill-turn programming and setup experience, machine brands and controls, CAD/CAM software, and the materials and tolerances you have worked with.