CNC Machinist/ Operator

at Aerotek in Wichita, Kansas, United States

Job Description

Job Title: 5-Axis CNC Machinist / Operator (All Shifts)

Job Description

This role focuses on setting up and operating 3-, 4-, and 5-axis CNC machines to produce high-precision components for aerospace, space, military, and related advanced applications. You will use a wide range of precision measuring instruments, follow detailed engineering documentation, and contribute to continuous improvement efforts in a highly technical machine shop environment.

Responsibilities

+ Set up and operate a variety of 3-, 4-, and 5-axis CNC machines, cutters, and work-holding tools to produce precision parts according to specifications.

+ Calculate dimensions and tolerances using precision instruments such as micrometers, calipers, portable CMMs, and FARO arms.

+ Machine parts to exact specifications using 3-, 4-, and 5-axis CNC equipment, ensuring adherence to engineering drawings and customer requirements.

+ Set up, adjust, and operate basic and specialized machine tools to perform precision machining operations.

+ Align and secure holding fixtures, cutting tools, attachments, accessories, and materials onto machines in accordance with setup documentation.

+ Measure, examine, and test completed parts to verify conformance using precision instruments, including micrometers, calipers, height gauges, go/no-go gauges, air gauges, and FARO arms.

+ Monitor machine feed rates, speeds, and indicators during machining to ensure proper operation and part quality.

+ Maintain machine tools in proper operational condition by performing routine maintenance and identifying when repairs or adjustments are needed.

+ Study sample parts, blueprints, drawings, and engineering information to determine product conformance and machining requirements.

+ Operate CNC equipment and related tools to verify operational efficiency and accuracy after setup or adjustments.

+ Diagnose machine tool malfunctions and determine necessary adjustments, repairs, or maintenance actions.

+ Collaborate with engineering, supervisory, and inspection personnel to clarify technical information and resolve issues.

+ Fit and assemble fixtures and cutters to manufacture or repair customer products.

+ Dispose of scrap and waste materials in line with company policies and environmental regulations.

+ Separate scrap, waste, and related materials for reuse, recycling, or proper disposal.

+ Evaluate machining procedures and recommend changes or modifications to improve efficiency, adaptability, and quality in line with Kaizen and continuous improvement processes.

+ Assemble electromechanical or hydraulic systems, machine tools, parts, or fixtures as required.

+ Disassemble equipment for maintenance or repair and reinstall mechanical components in production equipment.

+ Mount attachments and tools onto production equipment and verify calibration and offset alignment.

+ Move products and materials to designated areas using pallet jacks or forklifts.

+ Check equipment and work areas for safety hazards using a 6S checklist and ensure compliance with safety standards.

+ Verify certification and readiness of inspection equipment before use.

+ Maintain production and processing equipment by replacing worn components and ensuring proper function.

+ Use analytical and industrial control software, including CNC editing tools and various control interfaces, to support machining operations.

+ Participate in and complete a structured 6-8 week training period to learn company processes before transitioning to second or third shift.

Essential Skills

+ At least 6 months of machining experience in a production or job shop environment.

+ Ability to set up and operate 3-, 4-, and 5-axis CNC machines, including reading and interpreting blueprints and engineering drawings.

+ Proficiency with precision measuring instruments such as micrometers, calipers, height gauges, go/no-go gauges, air gauges, and FARO arms.

+ Experience calculating dimensions and tolerances and applying basic and applied mathematics to solve machining problems.

+ Strong active learning skills to understand the implications of new information for current and future problem-solving.

+ Active listening skills to accurately understand instructions and feedback and ask appropriate clarifying questions.

+ Critical thinking skills to evaluate alternative solutions and approaches to machining and quality issues.

+ Competence in reading comprehension for work-related documents, setup sheets, and engineering specifications.

+ Ability to use scientific methods and rules to solve technical and process-related problems.

+ Effective speaking skills to communicate clearly with team members, supervisors, and engineering and quality staff.

+ Effective writing skills to document work, communicate issues, and complete required forms or reports.

+ Complex problem-solving skills to identify and address intricate machining and equipment challenges.

+ Capability to perform routine equipment maintenance and determine when and what type of maintenance is required.

+ Skill in operation monitoring, including observing gauges, dials, and indicators to ensure machines run properly.

+ Skill in operation and control of CNC equipment and related systems.

+ Experience with quality control analysis, including conducting tests and inspections to evaluate product and process performance.

+ Troubleshooting skills to determine causes of operating errors and decide on corrective actions.

+ High school diploma or equivalent.

+ 1-2 years of experience running 3-, 4-, and 5-axis numerical control machines is preferred.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

+ Hands-on experience with Mazak machines, including 4-axis and 5-axis configurations.

+ Ability to perform CNC setup, including tool selection, offsets, and fixture setup.

+ Familiarity with G and M codes for CNC programming and editing.

+ Experience with Fanuc-based controls and Haas controls, including Haas mill machines.

+ Experience with Siemens-based controls and Smooth X controls.

+ Specific experience operating Vortex i-630V machines is highly desirable.

+ Experience deburring parts and finishing machined components to specification.

+ Comfort using a wide range of hand tools, including grinders and dotcos.

+ Experience with Verisurf inspection software or similar analytical and inspection tools.

+ Familiarity with GUI-based operation software and industrial control software for CNC machines.

+ Ability to assemble and disassemble electromechanical or hydraulic systems, machine tools, and fixtures.

+ Experience moving materials and products using pallet jacks or forklifts.

+ Commitment to continuous improvement and participation in Kaizen or similar initiatives.

+ Willingness to complete an initial 6-8 week training period on an earlier shift before moving to second or third shift.

Why Work Here?

You will join a locally rooted organization that is experiencing significant growth and invests heavily in advanced technology. The facility operates with some of the most sophisticated machining and inspection equipment in the region, enabling you to work on cutting-edge aerospace, space, military, and semiconductor projects. The company focuses on shorter lead times and globally competitive capabilities, creating a dynamic environment where your skills directly contribute to high-impact, high-precision products. You can expect a culture that values continuous improvement, technical excellence, and long-term employee development.

Work Environment

The role is based in a modern machine shop and sub-assembly environment that supports aerospace, space, military, and related high-technology projects. You will work with advanced 3-, 4-, and 5-axis CNC machines, including Mazak, Haas, and equipment controlled by Fanuc-, Siemens-, and Smooth