CNC Lathe Machinist – Setup & Programming (Day Shift)

Reata Engineering & Machine Works, Inc. (“Reata”),

a technology-driven precision machining company located in Englewood, Colorado, is seeking an experienced CNC Lathe Machinist capable of performing complete setups and programming on CNC turning centers.

This role is ideal for a machinist who can independently set up jobs, edit or create programs, troubleshoot machining issues, and produce precision components with tight tolerances.

Reata supports customers in the medical, aerospace, defense, semiconductor, and industrial industries, manufacturing high-precision components using advanced CNC equipment in a clean, organized, and modern shop environment.

Machines in our shop include:

- Mazak Integrex multi-tasking machines

- Mazak Variaxis 5-axis mills

- Mazak and Mori Vertical Mills

- Okuma Quick Turn CNC lathes

- Swiss screw CNC machines

Overview

As a Day Shift CNC Lathe Machinist, you will be responsible for performing complete machine setups, programming parts, and producing precision components with minimal supervision. You will review blueprints and CAD models, select tooling and workholding, develop or modify programs, optimize machining processes, and perform in-process inspections to ensure compliance with customer specifications and quality standards. This role plays a key part in maintaining quality, efficiency, and on-time delivery across prototype and production work.

Key Responsibilities

Machine Setup & Operation

- Perform full setups on CNC lathes and turning centers

- Install and qualify tooling, workholding, and fixtures

- Load materials and set machine offsets

- Adjust feeds, speeds, and cutting parameters for optimal performance

- Run first articles and transition jobs into production

- Monitor machine performance and maintain tight tolerances

Programming & Process Optimization

- Create or modify CNC programs using G-code or CAM software

- Make program edits at the machine as needed

- Optimize machining strategies to improve cycle times and tool life

- Troubleshoot machining issues and implement corrective actions

- Collaborate with engineering to improve manufacturing processes

Blueprint Interpretation

- Interpret complex blueprints and CAD models

- Apply GD&T requirements during setup and machining

- Maintain critical tolerances and surface finish requirements

Quality Assurance

- Perform first article and in-process inspections

- Use precision measuring instruments including calipers, micrometers, gauges, and bore gauges

- Ensure parts meet customer specifications and quality standards

Documentation & Compliance

- Accurately record production time and job activity in ERP systems

- Document scrap and corrective actions when necessary

- Comply with ISO 9001, ISO 13485, AS9100, and ITAR requirements

Machine Maintenance

- Perform routine preventive maintenance

- Monitor tool wear and machine performance

- Report and escalate maintenance issues when necessary

Required Skills and Qualifications

- Minimum 5 years of CNC machining experience

- Strong experience operating CNC lathes / turning centers

- Ability to perform complete machine setups independently

- Experience editing or creating CNC programs

- Strong blueprint reading and GD&T interpretation skills

- Experience holding tight tolerances

- Proficiency with precision inspection tools

- Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills

- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods

Preferred Qualifications

- Experience with Mazak, Haas, Okuma, or similar CNC lathes

- Experience with live tooling or mill-turn equipment

- CAD/CAM programming experience (Esprit, Mastercam, or similar)

- Experience machining medical, aerospace, or defense components

- Vocational training or CNC certification

Work Environment

Reata’s facility is clean, organized, and equipped with advanced CNC technology. Our machinists work in a collaborative environment focused on precision, efficiency, and continuous improvement. We believe machinists should have the tools, technology, and support necessary to succeed and grow within the organization.

Benefits

At Reata, we believe in fostering a supportive and engaging work environment that empowers our team to grow, innovate, and achieve their full potential. Here’s a glimpse of the benefits you’ll enjoy as part of our team:

- Competitive Salary: We offer salaries that match or exceed industry standards, reflecting the value and skills you bring to our team. We also offer ample opportunities for overtime, allowing you to enhance your earnings as you contribute to our shared success. Our customer focused approach and commitment to meeting our goals mean that there are plenty of chances to go above and beyond the standard workweek. For those eager to take advantage, this can significantly boost your income while playing a critical role in our company's achievements.

- Comprehensive Health Coverage: Enjoy peace of mind with our premium health, dental, and vision insurance plans, with significant contributions from us to keep you and your family healthy. Our plans include company-paid group term life insurance and long-term disability benefits, as well as a variety of supplemental health insurance options.

- Retirement Planning: Plan for your future with our 401(k) program, including generous company matching to help you save for retirement. Our plans include traditional and ROTH options to help you maximize your future benefits.

- Flexible Work Arrangements: We support a healthy work-life balance through flexible working hours and a generous paid time off policy that encourages you to recharge.

- Professional Development: Advance your career with our continuous learning opportunities, including tuition reimbursement, professional certification courses, and attendance at industry conferences.

- Unique Culture and Team Building: Experience our unique culture with transparent communication, regular team meetings, and company-wide events that build camaraderie and a sense of belonging.

- Career Advancement: We offer clear paths for career progression, with mentorship programs and leadership training to help you reach your professional goals.

- Diversity and Inclusion: Join a workplace where diversity is celebrated, and inclusive practices are the norm, ensuring everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed.

- Relocation Support: For candidates meeting certain conditions and requirements that are moving to join us, we offer comprehensive relocation assistance to make your transition as smooth as possible.

- Employee Recognition: We recognize and reward your contributions and achievements with regular recognition programs and awards.

Join Reata and be part of a team where your well-being is our priority, and your career growth is part of our mission to create an exceptional workplace.

Legal Disclaimers and Company Commitment

Equal Opportunity Employer

Reata is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All employment decisions at Reata are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV Status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, family medical history or genetic information, family or parental status, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate.

At-Will Employment

It is important to note that all employment at Reata, including the position advertised, is on an "at-will" basis. This means that either you or Reata can terminate the employment relationship at any time, for any reason, with or without notice, and with or without cause. Nothing in this job posting or in any document or statement, written or oral, shall limit the right to terminate employment at-will. No manager, supervisor, or employee of Reata has any authority to enter into an agreement for employment for any specified period or to make any agreement contrary to the foregoing. Furthermore, any offer of employment is conditioned on the completion of a background check and any other pre-employment screenings that may be required for the position. By applying for this position, you acknowledge that you have read and understood the terms of this at-will employment disclaimer.

Compliance with Local Laws

In compliance with the Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act, Reata provides a salary range for all positions listed in job postings. The salary range and benefits offered are detailed in this posting, and the final salary offered to the successful candidate will be determined based on qualifications, skills, education, and experience.

Accessibility and Accommodation

Reata complies with federal and state disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact our Human Resources Department at hr@reataeng.com.

Right to Modify Employment Terms

This job posting is for a position in a company that is continually evolving. As such, the duties and responsibilities of this position may change over time. Employees are expected to be flexible and responsive to changes in the scope of their duties. All employees are expected to comply with Reata's policies and procedures.

[1]Compensation is commensurate with skills, education and experience.