Machinist - Level 2 (Setup Machinist)

Position Summary

The Level 2 Machinist is the seasoned core of the CNC Department. You have moved beyond basic machine operation and are now fully trusted to perform independent, accurate machine setups on CNC Mills and/or Lathes.

Your primary mission is to take a provided program and Setup Sheet, prep the machine, touch off tools, and safely produce a First Article Inspection (FAI) part that meets all print specifications. You are expected to work autonomously, troubleshoot basic dimensional issues using wear offsets, and serve as a technical guide for Level 1 Operators.

Company Culture & Universal Expectations

At Burns Machinery, we are building a legacy of excellence. This role is not just about technical skill; it is about character. Every team member is expected to embody these four core values:

● Integrity & Honesty: We do what is right, even when no one is watching. We own our mistakes immediately and fix them. Trust is our most valuable currency.

● Commitment to Quality: "Good enough" does not fly here. We are dedicated to ensuring every part meets or exceeds the customer's expectations. If it isn't right, it doesn't leave the floor.

● Reliability: We do what we say we will do. Whether it’s a delivery date or a promise to a coworker, our word is our bond. Reliability is the backbone of our reputation.

● Continuous Improvement: The phrase "that’s how we’ve always done it" is not acceptable here. We are constantly asking, "How can we do this better, faster, or safer?" We challenge the status quo daily.

Key Responsibilities

1. Independent Machine Setup

● Read and interpret complex blueprints and GD&T callouts.

● Indicate vises, fixtures, and chucks to required tolerances.

● Set Work Coordinate Systems (G54, G55, etc.) and accurately touch-off tool lengths and diameters using tool setters or manual methods.

● Safely dry-run or single-block first-run programs to prove out the toolpath and prevent collisions.

2. Process Execution & Quality

● Process Discipline: Run the program exactly as provided. Enforce the "No Rogue Edits" rule. If speeds, feeds, or depths need to be permanently changed, you must communicate this to the CNC Programmer or Supervisor to update the master file.

● Dialing in Tolerances: Confidently and accurately adjust tool wear offsets at the controller to bring tight-tolerance features into spec.

● First Article Inspection: Perform your own First Article Inspections before handing a production run over to a Level 1 Operator.

3. Tooling Management

● Proactively monitor tool wear and surface finish degradation.

● Independently change inserts and endmills before catastrophic failure occurs, updating offsets accordingly.

● Ensure the physical tools loaded in the machine exactly match the tool list on the Setup Sheet.

4. Mentorship & Support

● Act as the first line of support for Level 1 Operators.

● Answer questions regarding measuring techniques, insert changes, and basic machine alarms.

● Demonstrate standard 5S and housekeeping practices, setting the example for the rest of the floor.

Qualifications & Skills

● Experience: 3 to 5+ years of CNC machining experience, with a proven track record of performing independent setups.

● Technical Skills: Deep understanding of G-code and M-code (able to read the code and know what the machine is about to do).

● Measurement Mastery: Expert with micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, and thread gauges. Strong GD&T literacy.

● Problem Solving: Ability to identify why a part is cutting out of tolerance (e.g., tool deflection, chip packing, or bad work-holding) and apply the correct fix.

Pay: $25.00 - $30.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan

Work Location: In person