JOB TITLE:

CNC LATHE MACHINIST


 

SALARY TYPE: Full-time hourly position.

REPORTS TO: Manufacturing Supervisor

U.S. Ordnance is a place to explore your greatest potential. Be a part of a team and culture that thrives on each person bringing their skills and passions to a challenging and evolving company.

DESCRIPTION OF BASIC FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES


 

Under minimal direction, independently set up and operate CNC (Computer Numerical Control) and manual machining equipment to manufacture complex, high-precision components from raw materials, castings, and forgings. The Senior Machinist serves as a technical leader on the shop floor, supporting production efficiency, mentoring machinists, and driving continuous improvement in machining processes and tooling life.

DUTIES

(Include the following, however, other duties may apply.)


 

  • Independently set up, program, troubleshoot, and operate CNC lathes and related equipment for complex and precision parts.
  • Serve as a technical subject matter expert (SME) for CNC machining, tooling, fixturing, and machine operation.
  • Operate and oversee manual machining equipment, including manual lathes, as required.
  • Perform and oversee in-process and final inspections; provide floor quality sign-off for Machinist Levels I and II.
  • Interpret complex blueprints, GD&T, job travelers, and engineering specifications; ensure full compliance with customer and quality requirements.
  • Develop, refine, transfer, and optimize CNC programs, jobs, and setups across multiple machines.
  • Collaborate closely, Quality, and Production teams to support new product introductions, process validation, and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Lead setup, proofing, and first-article processes with minimal impact to production schedules.
  • Identify tooling, fixture, and process improvements to enhance efficiency, quality, and cost effectiveness.
  • Train, mentor, and support machinists and operators prior to and during production runs.
  • Troubleshoot complex machine, tooling, and process issues; implement corrective actions and long-term solutions.
  • Ensure compliance with inspection plans and quality documentation requirements.
  • Demonstrate advanced proficiency in the use of precision measuring instruments and inspection gauges to meet tight tolerance requirements.
  • Perform and oversee routine cleaning, preventive maintenance, and minor mechanical adjustments on CNC equipment.
  • Work overtime and flexible schedules as needed to support production and operational
    requirements.

QUALIFICATIONS


To perform this job successfully, the CNC Machinist must be able to independently perform all
essential duties, resolve complex machining and process issues, and provide guidance with
minimal supervision.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS


Advanced ability to perform machining-related mathematical calculations and apply concepts such as fractions, tolerances, trigonometry, and proportions to complex manufacturing situations.

REASONING ABILITY


Ability to analyze complex machining and production problems, collect and interpret data, establish root causes, and develop effective corrective actions. Must be able to interpret detailed technical instructions, engineering drawings, and process documentation in both mathematical and diagrammatic forms.

WORK ENVIRONMENT


This position operates in a professional machining and warehouse environment. Use of safety glasses, hearing protection, and other required PPE is mandatory in designated areas.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS


  • Ability to move or transfer products with an overhead crane.
  • Ability to lift 50 lbs. when required.
  • While performing the duties of the job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk and reach with hands and arms. Specific vision abilities required by this job includeclose vision, distance vision, color vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE


  • 3-5 years of progressive machining experience, and setup.
  • CNC lathe programming preferred but not required.
  • An equivalent combination of education, technical training, and experience demonstrating senior-level machining expertise.

LANGUAGE SKILLS


Effectively communicate and understand job instructions both verbally and written in the English language.

TRAVEL


Travel is primarily local although some out-of-area and overnight travel may be expected.

POSITION TYPE / EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK


This is a full-time salary position. Days and hours of work are Monday through Thursday, 6:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Additional hours as required by operational needs.

AAP/EEO STATEMENT
We are an equal opportunity employer and do not unlawfully discriminate in employment. No question on the application is used for the purpose of limiting or excluding any applicant from consideration for employment on a basis prohibited by local, state, or federal law. Equal access to employment, services, and programs is available to all persons. Those applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application and/or interview process should notify a representative of the organization.