CNC Lathe Machinist - 1602

SARA Inc • Colorado Springs, CO

6d • $26 - $37 • Onsite

About The Position

Scientific Applications & Research Associates, Inc. (SARA) is seeking a CNC Lathe Machinist to support research and development and rapid prototyping projects in Colorado Springs, CO. The role involves working within the Rapid Development Group (RDG) team, collaborating with other machinists, engineers, and interns. The position focuses on producing high-quality precision components for the defense and government sectors, requiring a self-driven individual capable of managing complex parts from initial release to final inspection with minimal supervision.

Requirements

• Associate degree in Machining Technology or equivalent technical training and experience
• 6 – 8 years of progressively responsible CNC machining experience
• Demonstrated experience programming, setting up, and operating CNC lathes independently
• Knowledge of Mastercam programming software
• Experience with Haas CNC controls
• Strong understanding of machining principles, tooling selection, workholding methods, and cutting parameters
• Ability to machine complex precision components from aluminum, steel, stainless steel, and plastics
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and GD&T
• Experience performing first-article and in-process inspections
• Proficiency with precision measurement equipment and inspection techniques
• Experience cutting, preparing, and handling raw materials for machining operations
• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office and email
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship
• U.S. Citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and perform work involving standing, walking, bending, reaching, and repetitive hand motions

Nice To Haves

• 8 – 10 years of relevant experience
• Experience in a prototype, R&D, aerospace, defense, or low-volume/high-mix manufacturing environment
• Experience with SolidWorks CAD software
• Multi-axis lathe experience, including live tooling and sub-spindle operations
• Experience with CNC mills and mill-turn equipment
• Experience working within an ISO 9001 or AS9100 quality management system
• Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems and electronic job travelers
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Demonstrated leadership, mentoring, and problem-solving abilities
• Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement experience
• Forklift experience

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, and troubleshoot CNC lathes utilizing Haas controls and Mastercam software
• Manufacture precision components from engineering drawings, CAD models, sketches, and verbal direction
• Independently perform cradle-to-grave machining of complex parts, including process planning, tooling selection, programming, setup, machining, and inspection
• Interpret engineering drawings, GD&T requirements, specifications, and work instructions
• Optimize machining processes, feeds, and speeds to improve quality, throughput, and cost efficiency
• Perform first-article inspections and in-process inspections to ensure compliance with drawing requirements
• Utilize precision measuring equipment, including calipers, micrometers, height gauges, bore gauges, indicators, thread gauges, and other inspection tools
• Maintain and organize cutting tools, fixtures, workholding, and associated tooling
• Collaborate with engineers, designers, quality personnel, and production staff to resolve manufacturing challenges and improve producibility
• Assist in training and mentoring less-experienced machinists and machine operators
• Support prototype development, low-rate production, and production machining activities as required
• Maintain accurate job documentation and machine setup information
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives related to machining processes, tooling, quality, and shop efficiency
• Perform routine preventative maintenance on CNC equipment and associated tooling
• Coordinate machine service requirements and communicate maintenance concerns to supervision
• Ensure tooling is properly stored, identified, and maintained
• Keep machines, work areas, and shared shop resources clean, organized, and ready for operation
• Follow all company safety procedures and housekeeping standards

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, disability and life insurance; and other supplemental programs
• A generous PTO program (vacation, sick, holiday)
• Tuition & certification reimbursement
• Flexible work schedules
• Discretionary Employee bonuses
• 401(k) match/profit sharing
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree