Swiss CNC Setup Machinist
About the Company
Our client is a globally respected, family-owned manufacturer specializing in precision electromechanical components. With European roots and a long-standing U.S. presence, the company delivers customized technical solutions to a diverse range of industries, including automotive, industrial automation, aerospace, and medical technology. Known for engineering excellence and customer-focused innovation, the company combines German quality standards with strong U.S. application expertise to support clients in solving complex challenges.
Position Overview
The Lead Swiss CNC Setup Machinist is a hands-on technical expert responsible for the complete setup, optimization, and performance of Swiss-style CNC machining processes in a high-precision setup, optimization, and performance of Swiss-style CNC machining processes in a high-precision manufacturing environment. This role functions as the technical lead on the shop floor, combining full machine setup responsibilities with troubleshooting, process improvement, and operator support. The position plays a critical role in ensuring quality, efficiency, and repeatability across both prototype and production work.
Key Responsibilities
Machine Setup & Process Ownership
- Perform full setups on Swiss-style CNC lathes, including tooling, guide bushings, offsets, and material loading
- Establish and optimize feeds, speeds, and cutting parameters
- Write, load, verify, and make edits to CNC programs (G-code)
- Run and support prototype and production jobs based on engineering drawings and setup documentation
- Take ownership of setup quality and process stability
Quality & Precision Control
- Perform first-piece and in-process inspections using precision measurement tools
- Maintain tight tolerances (±0.0001” typical for Swiss machining)
- Identify and resolve non-conforming parts in collaboration with Quality and Engineering
- Ensure consistent adherence to quality standards and documentation
Troubleshooting & Continuous Improvement
- Diagnose machining, tooling, and material issues to minimize scrap and downtime
- Optimize processes for efficiency, cycle time, and tool life
- Recommend improvements to tooling, programming, and workflows •
- Solicit and test tooling with suppliers to optimize production efficiencies, quality, and costs
- Support scrap reduction and continuous improvement initiatives
Technical Leadership & Shop Floor Support
- Act as a go-to expert for operators and junior machinists
- Support training and onboarding of less experienced team members
- Help standardize setups and best practices across machines
- Collaborate cross-functionally with Engineering, Quality, and Production
Machines, Controls & Materials
- Swiss CNC machines: Star 10mm, 20mm, 32mm, 38mm
- Additional machines: Eurotech, Nakamura, DMG Mori, Murata, Winema
- Controls: Fanuc, Mitsubishi, or similar
- Programming: G-code editing (CAM experience a plus)
- Materials: Carbon steel, stainless steel, brass, aluminum, specialty alloys
Qualifications
Required
- 3-8+ years of CNC machining experience with strong Swiss setup expertise
- Proven ability to independently perform complete machine setups
- Strong blueprint reading skills, including GD&T
- Experience with precision inspection tools
- Deep understanding of tooling, feeds, speeds, and machining processes
Preferred
- Trade school or Associate’s degree in Machining / Manufacturing Technology
- Experience in high-precision industries (medical, aerospace, etc.)
- CNC Programming skills are desired
- Lean manufacturing / continuous improvement experience
Physical Requirements
- Stand/walk for 8–10 hours per shift
- Lift up to 50 lbs
- Perform fine manual work and visual inspection of small, high-precision parts
