Lathe Set Up Lead
Kadon Precision Machining, Rockford, IL, United States
Overview
We are seeking an experienced
Lathe Setup Lead
to join our growing manufacturing team. This role is ideal for a skilled machinist who takes pride in precision work, enjoys solving complex machining challenges, and is willing to share their knowledge by training and mentoring others on the shop floor.
You'll play a key role in producing high-quality parts while helping strengthen our team through leadership, coaching, and best practices.
What You'll Do
Program, set up and optimize CNC lathes for low- to mid-volume precision production
Interpret complex blueprints, specifications, and GD&T
Select tooling, offsets, and cutting parameters to ensure quality and efficiency
Perform first-article inspections and make necessary adjustments
Troubleshoot machining issues and implement process improvements
Maintain tight tolerances and high quality standards
Train and mentor junior machinists and operators
Support continuous improvement, safety, and 5S initiatives
Collaborate with programming, quality, and engineering teams as needed
Requirements
7+ years of CNC lathe setup and operation experience (or equivalent hands-on expertise)
Strong knowledge of machining principles, tooling, and feeds/speeds
Ability to read and interpret complex prints and GD&T
Experience holding tight tolerances in a precision manufacturing environment
Comfortable working independently and leading by example
A positive attitude and willingness to coach and develop others
Experience in aerospace or high-precision machining is a plus
Why Join Us
Work with modern equipment in a clean, organized shop
Be part of a growing company with long-term stability
Opportunity to influence processes and mentor the next generation of machinists
Competitive pay based on experience
Comprehensive benefits package (medical, dental, vision, 401(k), paid time off, and more)
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We are seeking an experienced
Lathe Setup Lead
to join our growing manufacturing team. This role is ideal for a skilled machinist who takes pride in precision work, enjoys solving complex machining challenges, and is willing to share their knowledge by training and mentoring others on the shop floor.
You'll play a key role in producing high-quality parts while helping strengthen our team through leadership, coaching, and best practices.
What You'll Do
Program, set up and optimize CNC lathes for low- to mid-volume precision production
Interpret complex blueprints, specifications, and GD&T
Select tooling, offsets, and cutting parameters to ensure quality and efficiency
Perform first-article inspections and make necessary adjustments
Troubleshoot machining issues and implement process improvements
Maintain tight tolerances and high quality standards
Train and mentor junior machinists and operators
Support continuous improvement, safety, and 5S initiatives
Collaborate with programming, quality, and engineering teams as needed
Requirements
7+ years of CNC lathe setup and operation experience (or equivalent hands-on expertise)
Strong knowledge of machining principles, tooling, and feeds/speeds
Ability to read and interpret complex prints and GD&T
Experience holding tight tolerances in a precision manufacturing environment
Comfortable working independently and leading by example
A positive attitude and willingness to coach and develop others
Experience in aerospace or high-precision machining is a plus
Why Join Us
Work with modern equipment in a clean, organized shop
Be part of a growing company with long-term stability
Opportunity to influence processes and mentor the next generation of machinists
Competitive pay based on experience
Comprehensive benefits package (medical, dental, vision, 401(k), paid time off, and more)
#J-18808-Ljbffr