{"schemaVersion":"jobsearcher.job.v1","id":"5921799e3c6ee6ea5f2b2a40","url":"https://jobsearcher.com/jobs/5921799e3c6ee6ea5f2b2a40","canonicalUrl":"https://jobsearcher.com/jobs/5921799e3c6ee6ea5f2b2a40","title":"CNC Lathe Operator & Setup","description":"About UsAdvanced Structural Technologies (AST) is a leading aerospace manufacturer specializing in forged, spun, and machined components for the most demanding mission-critical applications in the industry. For over 25 years, we have built a reputation for precision engineering, innovation, and the kind of high-quality manufacturing that gets parts onto rockets, satellites, and defense platforms.Located in Oxnard, California, AST operates out of cutting-edge facilities spanning over 250,000 sq. ft., including our newest expansion completed in 2024. We employ approximately 185 skilled professionals across multi-shift operations and continue to grow as the commercial space industry expands.Position OverviewWe are looking for a CNC Lathe Operator & Setup who takes pride in their craft and wants to work on parts that matter. This is a hands-on, high-mix, low-volume environment where every job is different, and the bar for precision is high. You will own your setups from start to finish—reading the print, selecting tooling, dialing in the program, and walking the first article over to QA with confidence.This is not a button-pushing position. We need a machinist who can think through a tough setup, troubleshoot when something is not running right, and bring ideas to the table for how to make the process better. If you are the person other machinists ask for help, we want to talk to you.What Sets This Role ApartYou will machine parts for the leading names in commercial space and defense—work you can point to and be proud ofHigh-mix, low-volume environment means constant variety; you will not be running the same part for months on endModern facility with continued investment in equipment and infrastructure (newest expansion completed in 2024)Direct access to engineering and production leadership—your input on process improvements is heard and acted onLong-term career growth in a stable, expanding aerospace manufacturerKey ResponsibilitiesOwn complete CNC lathe setups from blueprint to first article approval on complex aerospace componentsRead and interpret detailed engineering drawings and GD&T to determine the best approach for each jobSelect tooling, workholding, and machining strategies for high-precision turning operationsEdit and optimize CNC programs at the machine to improve cycle time, surface finish, and tool lifeVerify part dimensions using precision measuring instruments (calipers, micrometers, indicators, etc.) and ensure compliance with tight tolerancesDiagnose and resolve machining issues, tool wear, and setup inconsistencies before they impact quality or scheduleMaintain accurate setup sheets, tool lists, and inspection records to support repeatabilityCollaborate with engineering, programming, and quality teams to refine processes and reduce cycle timesQualifications5+ years of experience setting up and running CNC lathes in a precision manufacturing environmentStrong proficiency with Fanuc controls; experience with live tooling or multi-axis lathes is a plusAbility to read, edit, and write G-code at the machineDeep understanding of turning processes, speeds and feeds, tool selection, and workholding strategyAbility to read and interpret complex mechanical drawings and GD&TExperience machining tight-tolerance parts in aerospace, defense, medical, or other high-precision industries strongly preferredExperience with high-mix, low-volume or short-run production environmentsStrong attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and a commitment to quality workmanshipAbility to lift up to 45 lbs and stand for extended periodsHigh school diploma or equivalent required; technical training, apprenticeship, or trade school background a plusWhy Join AST?At AST, we believe in fostering a work environment where employees can thrive both personally and professionally. We offer a competitive benefits package, including:Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance401(k) Savings PlanCompany-Sponsored Life InsuranceShort-term and Long-term Disability CoveragePaid HolidaysPaid Vacation and Sick LeaveHours & ScheduleSchedule: Monday – Friday (8-hour shift)Expected Hours: 40+ hours per week (plus overtime as needed)If you are a CNC Lathe Operator & Setup who wants to work on aerospace hardware that flies, contribute to a growing team, and take pride in the parts you build, we want to hear from you. Apply today and join the AST team.","company":"Advanced Structural Technologies","rawCompany":"advanced structural technologies","city":"Oxnard","state":"CA","isRemote":false,"isActive":false,"createdAt":"2026-06-28T01:22:20.396Z","occupations":[{"code":"51-4041.00","title":"Machinists","slug":"machinists"},{"code":"51-9161.00","title":"Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators","slug":"computer-numerically-controlled-tool-operators"},{"code":"51-4034.00","title":"Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic","slug":"lathe-and-turning-machine-tool-setters-operators-and-tenders-metal-and-plastic"}],"industries":[{"code":"332710","title":"Machine Shops","slug":"machine-shops"},{"code":"332721","title":"Precision Turned Product Manufacturing","slug":"precision-turned-product-manufacturing"},{"code":"336413","title":"Other Aircraft Parts and Auxiliary Equipment Manufacturing","slug":"other-aircraft-parts-and-auxiliary-equipment-manufacturing"}],"jobPosting":{"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"JobPosting","title":"CNC Lathe Operator & Setup","description":"About UsAdvanced Structural Technologies (AST) is a leading aerospace manufacturer specializing in forged, spun, and machined components for the most demanding mission-critical applications in the industry. For over 25 years, we have built a reputation for precision engineering, innovation, and the kind of high-quality manufacturing that gets parts onto rockets, satellites, and defense platforms.Located in Oxnard, California, AST operates out of cutting-edge facilities spanning over 250,000 sq. ft., including our newest expansion completed in 2024. We employ approximately 185 skilled professionals across multi-shift operations and continue to grow as the commercial space industry expands.Position OverviewWe are looking for a CNC Lathe Operator & Setup who takes pride in their craft and wants to work on parts that matter. This is a hands-on, high-mix, low-volume environment where every job is different, and the bar for precision is high. You will own your setups from start to finish—reading the print, selecting tooling, dialing in the program, and walking the first article over to QA with confidence.This is not a button-pushing position. We need a machinist who can think through a tough setup, troubleshoot when something is not running right, and bring ideas to the table for how to make the process better. If you are the person other machinists ask for help, we want to talk to you.What Sets This Role ApartYou will machine parts for the leading names in commercial space and defense—work you can point to and be proud ofHigh-mix, low-volume environment means constant variety; you will not be running the same part for months on endModern facility with continued investment in equipment and infrastructure (newest expansion completed in 2024)Direct access to engineering and production leadership—your input on process improvements is heard and acted onLong-term career growth in a stable, expanding aerospace manufacturerKey ResponsibilitiesOwn complete CNC lathe setups from blueprint to first article approval on complex aerospace componentsRead and interpret detailed engineering drawings and GD&T to determine the best approach for each jobSelect tooling, workholding, and machining strategies for high-precision turning operationsEdit and optimize CNC programs at the machine to improve cycle time, surface finish, and tool lifeVerify part dimensions using precision measuring instruments (calipers, micrometers, indicators, etc.) and ensure compliance with tight tolerancesDiagnose and resolve machining issues, tool wear, and setup inconsistencies before they impact quality or scheduleMaintain accurate setup sheets, tool lists, and inspection records to support repeatabilityCollaborate with engineering, programming, and quality teams to refine processes and reduce cycle timesQualifications5+ years of experience setting up and running CNC lathes in a precision manufacturing environmentStrong proficiency with Fanuc controls; experience with live tooling or multi-axis lathes is a plusAbility to read, edit, and write G-code at the machineDeep understanding of turning processes, speeds and feeds, tool selection, and workholding strategyAbility to read and interpret complex mechanical drawings and GD&TExperience machining tight-tolerance parts in aerospace, defense, medical, or other high-precision industries strongly preferredExperience with high-mix, low-volume or short-run production environmentsStrong attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and a commitment to quality workmanshipAbility to lift up to 45 lbs and stand for extended periodsHigh school diploma or equivalent required; technical training, apprenticeship, or trade school background a plusWhy Join AST?At AST, we believe in fostering a work environment where employees can thrive both personally and professionally. We offer a competitive benefits package, including:Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance401(k) Savings PlanCompany-Sponsored Life InsuranceShort-term and Long-term Disability CoveragePaid HolidaysPaid Vacation and Sick LeaveHours & ScheduleSchedule: Monday – Friday (8-hour shift)Expected Hours: 40+ hours per week (plus overtime as needed)If you are a CNC Lathe Operator & Setup who wants to work on aerospace hardware that flies, contribute to a growing team, and take pride in the parts you build, we want to hear from you. Apply today and join the AST team.","datePosted":"2026-06-28T01:22:20.396Z","dateModified":"2026-06-28T01:22:20.396Z","hiringOrganization":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Advanced Structural Technologies","sameAs":"https://jobsearcher.com"},"jobLocation":{"@type":"Place","address":{"@type":"PostalAddress","addressLocality":"Oxnard","addressRegion":"CA","addressCountry":"US"}},"identifier":{"@type":"PropertyValue","name":"JobSearcher","value":"5921799e3c6ee6ea5f2b2a40"},"url":"https://jobsearcher.com/jobs/5921799e3c6ee6ea5f2b2a40"}}