Precision CNC Turning Machinist (Lathe Specialist)

Precision CNC Turning Machinist (Lathe Specialist) Rusco Manufacturing - 2.6 Machesney Park, IL Job Details $20 - $24 an hour 11 hours ago Benefits On-the-job training Qualifications High school diploma or GED Full Job Description Step Into the

Turn:

A Day in This Role You arrive at your CNC turning cell with a print in hand. After a quick review of the blueprint and GD&T callouts, you load raw stock, set tools, and run a first-piece. You dial in offsets, verify critical dimensions with micrometers and bore gauges, and keep the process steady and repeatable—holding tolerances at or tighter than ±0.002 inches. Throughout the shift, you monitor tool wear, swap inserts, document production, and keep your machine running clean and safe. What You'll Do Run CNC lathes/turning centers (2-axis, multi-axis, and units with live tooling). Interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and GD&T to plan the cut and confirm conformance. Load raw materials, set workholding/fixtures, and oversee machining cycles. Adjust tooling, speeds/feeds, and machine offsets for accuracy and throughput. Perform first-article and in-process inspections with precision metrology tools. Maintain tight tolerances—often within ±0.002 inches or better. Change inserts, tools, and fixtures as needed; resolve chatter, wear, and dimensional drift. Execute routine cleaning and preventive maintenance on equipment. Record production data and quality checkpoints. Equipment & Tooling You'll Handle CNC turning centers: 2-axis, multi-axis, and machines with live tooling.

Controls:

Fanuc, Haas, and Mazak.

Inspection tools:

micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, dial indicators.

Cutting tools:

inserts, boring bars, drills, and reamers. What You Bring Deep knowledge of CNC turning methods and process control. Confidence applying GD&T and reading complex prints. Understanding of speeds/feeds and cutting materials. Solid math skills (trigonometry experience is a plus). Quality-first mindset and attention to detail. Background & Experience High school diploma or GED required. Technical certificate or associate degree in machining preferred. 3-5+ years operating CNC lathes (experience levels vary by employer). Apprenticeship or strong on-the-job training is common. Work Environment Standing for extended periods; lifting 25-50 lbs as needed. Typical shop exposure to noise, coolant, and metal chips. PPE required (safety glasses, steel-toe footwear, etc.).

Compensation Experienced range:

$20-$24 per hour (U.S.). Grow Your Craft CNC Programmer Lead Machinist / Supervisor Manufacturing Engineer Quality Inspector / CMM Programmer Ways to Stand Out Experience with live tooling or Swiss-style lathes. CAM exposure (Mastercam, Fusion 360). Multi-axis work (4-axis / 5-axis). Familiarity with Lean manufacturing or Six Sigma.