CNC Turning Set-Up Specialist (Lathe)

Job Description

Job Description

CNC Turning Set-Up Specialist (Lathe)

Location: 3411 Woodhead Dr, Northbrook, IL 60062

Hire Type: Full-Time | Shift: 2nd Shift | Pay: $25-$45/hr

A Day on Our 2nd Shift

You clock in at our climate-controlled Northbrook facility where aerospace-grade composites and thermoset materials become precision parts. Your shift begins by reviewing the next run: you load the verified CNC program, install and dial-in jaws and tooling, touch off, set offsets, and produce the first-piece. With measuring tools in hand—calipers, micrometers, bore and thread gauges—you confirm the part meets spec. You log results, fine-tune offsets, and then move the job into stable production while keeping an eye on tool wear and machine performance.

When the schedule calls for a changeover, you transition quickly and cleanly, ensuring minimal downtime. You collaborate with supervisors and engineering when a tolerance looks tight or a feature calls for creative fixturing. Throughout the evening, you follow PPE and machine guarding practices, keep your cell tidy, and contribute ideas for setup reduction and tooling optimization.

About Atlas Fibre

Atlas Fibre manufactures high-performance composite and thermoset components for automotive, aviation, aerospace, and industrial customers around the world. We combine advanced materials with modern CNC technology to deliver reliable, tight-tolerance parts used in demanding environments.

Core Responsibilities

• Independently set up CNC lathes for production using prints, process sheets, and work instructions.
• Install/adjust tooling and workholding (fixtures, jaws), establish tool and work offsets, and verify programs.
• Run first-article parts, inspect, and adjust to achieve capability; document setups and production results.
• Monitor cycle quality and troubleshoot machining or setup issues on Haas, Okuma, and similar platforms.
• Execute efficient changeovers to support schedule demands and reduce downtime.

Quality & Inspection

• Interpret engineering drawings and GD&T to achieve precise dimensional outcomes.
• Use calipers, micrometers, bore/thread gauges, and other precision metrology to verify conformity.
• Hold tight tolerances consistently and maintain full traceability and quality records.

Safety & Continuous Improvement

• Follow PPE, guarding, lockout, and safe operating procedures at all times.
• Keep an organized, clean workstation and escalate issues promptly to leadership/engineering.
• Recommend improvements for setup reduction, tooling life, and process stability.

What You Bring Required

• 3+ years setting up CNC lathes with minimal supervision.
• Hands-on experience with Haas, Okuma, or comparable CNC lathe controls.
• Demonstrated ability to perform complete setups and rapid changeovers.
• Strong print reading and GD&T comprehension.
• Proficiency with precision measuring tools and inspection methods.
• Sharp troubleshooting skills and a quality-first mindset.

Preferred

• Background machining composites, plastics, or aerospace components.
• Familiarity with multi-axis/live-tool turning centers.
• Technical machining education or certification.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive pay: $25.00 - $45.00/hour (based on experience)
• Medical and dental insurance
• Company-paid life insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid vacation and sick time
• Tuition reimbursement
• Advancement opportunities in a growing manufacturing environment
• Climate-controlled facility with advanced CNC equipment

Work Environment

Standing for extended periods and lifting up to 50 lbs. are part of the role. You’ll work in a manufacturing setting with machine noise and composite dust; appropriate PPE is provided.

Tools & Technologies

• CNC Lathes (Haas, Okuma)
• Multi-axis CNC lathes
• Precision measuring equipment
• Calipers, micrometers, bore gauges, thread gauges
• Fanuc-based controls

Proficiencies We Value

• CNC lathe setup and changeovers
• Print interpretation and GD&T
• Precision measurement and in-process inspection
• Diagnosing and resolving CNC issues
• Tool offsets and program verification
• High-volume/production machining
• First-piece inspection

You should be proficient in: CNC Machine Setup & Changeover

Apply

Ready to work on advanced materials and aerospace-grade parts while mastering modern CNC turning? Join our 2nd Shift team in Northbrook.

Job Type: Full-time, In-person | Location: Northbrook, IL 60062

Atlas Fibre is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce.