CNC Machinist - Lathe in Cambridge

Cambridge Valley Machining (CVM) provides comprehensive design through manufacturing services for startups, Fortune 500 businesses, and other domestic and global customers. CVM is a proud supplier within the Space and the Defense industries. At Cambridge Valley Machining, we recognize that the key to our success is our people. We are a family-owned and operated company. Due to business growth, we are seeking to fill a CNC Lathe Machinist position. Reporting to the Production Manager, the CNC Lathe Machinist is responsible for setting up, programming, and operating CNC lathe equipment to manufacture precision metal components to engineering specifications. This role requires strong technical knowledge of machining processes, quality standards, and safe shop practices. The Machinist works collaboratively with engineering and production teams to ensure on‑time delivery of parts that meet or exceed customer and regulatory requirements.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Set up, adjust, and operate CNC lathes (including Nakamura, Okuma, Tsugami, Mori Seiki, and Kia machines) to perform precision turning, boring, threading, and facing operations.
• Study and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, GD&T callouts, and work orders to determine machining sequences, tooling, feeds, and speeds.
• Align and secure workpieces, collets, spindles, cutting tools, and fixtures to machine specifications.
• Monitor machine feed, speed, and coolant during production runs; make real‑time adjustments to maintain quality and efficiency.
• Design, build, and modify fixtures to satisfy machining requirements.
• Operate manual lathe equipment as needed to support production.

CNC Programming & Controls

• Create, edit, and retrieve CNC programs using machine control units and CAM software as applicable.
• Enter and modify G‑code and M‑code to optimize machining parameters, toolpaths, and cycle times.
• Perform first‑article setup and prove‑out of new programs, documenting changes for future production runs.

Quality Inspection & Documentation

• Measure, inspect, and test machined components using precision instruments including micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, height gauges, and CMM equipment.
• Calculate and verify dimensions and tolerances to engineering requirements; reject non‑conforming parts and document discrepancies.
• Maintain accurate production logs, quality inspection records, time cards, and non‑conformance reports in accordance with company procedures.
• Support ISO 9001 / AS9100 quality system compliance requirements as applicable.

Equipment Maintenance & 5S

• Perform routine preventive maintenance on lathes and tooling, including lubrication, cleaning, and minor adjustments.
• Observe, listen, and troubleshoot machine malfunctions; initiate work orders for repairs beyond operator scope.
• Exercise "stop the job" authority when a safety concern, quality issue, or abnormal machine condition is identified.
• Maintain work area in accordance with 5S standards; clean machines, tooling, and surrounding areas using approved solvents and methods.

Collaboration & Continuous Improvement

• Communicate technical information with engineering, supervisory, scheduling, and sales teams to support on‑time delivery and customer satisfaction.
• Evaluate current machining procedures and recommend modifications to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and increase adaptability.
• Participate in lean manufacturing initiatives, kaizen events, and process improvement activities.
• Advise planners and schedulers on material and process capabilities to support production planning.
• Perform all duties of Machine Operator II as part of the standard production workflow.

Required Education and Experience

• High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent required.
• Minimum of 2 years of hands‑on CNC lathe machining experience in a precision manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and GD&T callouts.
• Proficiency in the use of precision measuring instruments.
• Strong applied math skills including geometry, trigonometry, and tolerance calculations.
• Experience with CNC machine controls and basic program editing.

Preferred Qualifications

• Completion of a machining or manufacturing technology vocational program, apprenticeship, or associate degree.
• Experience operating manual lathe equipment.
• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing, 5S, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Experience working in a DOD‑regulated or aerospace/defense manufacturing environment.

Competencies

• Strong machining fundamentals; CNC programming and setup; precision measurement; blueprint reading; material properties.
• Attention to Detail: Consistently produces accurate work; identifies defects and deviations before they become costly.
• Problem Solving: Troubleshoots machining issues methodically; recommends effective solutions.
• Teamwork & Communication: Collaborates effectively across departments; communicates clearly about technical issues.
• Reliability & Initiative: Self‑directed; dependable attendance and follow‑through; takes ownership of work quality.
• Safety Consciousness: Prioritises safe practices; proactively identifies and reports hazards.

Physical Requirements and Work Environment

• Regularly required to stand for extended periods; walk, reach, and use hands to handle tools and equipment.
• Frequently required to lift and/or move materials up to 50 lbs.; team lift required for heavier loads.
• Exposure to machine noise, coolant mist, metal chips, and cutting fluids; PPE required.
• Work is performed in a manufacturing shop environment; temperature may vary seasonally.
• Close visual acuity required for reading instruments, blueprints, and machine displays.

Regulatory and Compliance Requirements

• Due to the nature of work performed and the technical information accessed at this facility, this position requires the incumbent to be a U.S. Person as defined under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).
• Must comply with all applicable federal, state (New York), and local employment laws and company policies.
• Subject to drug and alcohol testing in accordance with company policy and applicable law.
• Must maintain confidentiality of proprietary technical information, customer data, and trade secrets.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Cambridge Valley Machining, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, familial status, genetic information, domestic violence victim status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.