CNC VTL Set-Up / Operator

North Haven, CT
Full-Time | On-Site
Confidential Manufacturing Opportunity

Position Summary

A well-established precision manufacturing company in North Haven, Connecticut is seeking an experienced CNC VTL Set-Up / Operator to join its machining team.

This is a hands-on opportunity for a skilled machinist who can independently set up and operate CNC Vertical Turning Lathes (VTLs) while producing precision components to blueprint specifications and tight tolerances.

The ideal candidate will bring strong setup experience, excellent blueprint-reading skills, and the ability to troubleshoot machining issues while maintaining consistent part quality.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC Vertical Turning Lathes (VTLs).
• Perform complete machine setups including tooling, fixtures, workholding, and offsets.
• Load and verify existing CNC programs.
• Read and interpret blueprints, GD&T, specifications, and work instructions.
• Select and install appropriate tooling and inserts.
• Establish and adjust machine offsets as needed.
• Monitor speeds, feeds, tooling condition, and overall machine performance.
• Perform first-piece and in-process inspections.
• Use micrometers, calipers, indicators, gauges, and other precision measuring equipment.
• Make adjustments to maintain dimensional accuracy and part quality.
• Troubleshoot setup, tooling, and machining issues.
• Monitor tool wear and replace tooling as necessary.
• Maintain required tolerances and surface finishes.
• Complete production and quality documentation accurately.
• Follow established safety, quality, and manufacturing procedures.

Qualifications

• Previous experience setting up and operating CNC VTL equipment.
• Strong CNC machining and setup experience.
• Ability to perform complete setups independently.
• Strong blueprint-reading and GD&T skills.
• Experience machining precision components to tight tolerances.
• Knowledge of cutting tools, inserts, workholding, speeds, and feeds.
• Proficiency with precision measuring and inspection equipment.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting ability.
• Ability to work independently in a precision manufacturing environment.

Preferred Experience

• Background in precision machining or other high-tolerance manufacturing environments.
• Experience machining a variety of metals and complex components.
• Experience in low-volume, high-mix, or custom machining environments.
• Experience taking an existing job from setup through first-piece approval and production.

Ideal Candidate

The strongest candidate will be a true CNC set-up machinist, not simply a machine operator. This individual should be comfortable taking an existing program, completing the full VTL setup, establishing tooling and offsets, proving out the first piece, inspecting parts, and independently running production.