CNC Swiss Set-up & Programming Machinist-Expert Level
CNC Swiss Set-up & Programming Machinist-Expert Level
Location: Lakeville, MN 55044
Shift: Flexible on day shift working 8x5, 4x10,3x12, or 9 hour days with half day Friday
Hiring Basis: Direct hire basis
Full benefits package: 401(k), health, dental, vision, life insurance paid by company, long term disability paid by company, PTO
Pay: $35-$50/Hourly/W2
Lotus Technical has a direct role for an Expert CNC Swiss Set-up & Programming Machinist for our manufacturing client located in Lakeville, MN. Must be US Citizen or Green Card Holder.
The Expert CNC Swiss Set-up & Programmer will be responsible for programming, setting up, and optimizing Swiss type CNC lathes to produce high precision components. This role requires advanced expertise in Swiss machining processes, tolling strategies, troubleshooting, and quality inspection to maintain tight tolerances and high production standards. This is a clean, organized shop where skilled machinists can take pride in their work, grow their careers, and be treated with respect with little to no employee turnover.
POSITION OVERVIEW
The Expert CNC Swiss Set-Up & Programmer is responsible for programming, setting up, and optimizing Swiss-type CNC lathes to produce high-precision components. This role requires advanced expertise in Swiss machining processes, tooling strategies, troubleshooting, and quality inspection to maintain tight tolerances and high production standards.
Candidates must have strong knowledge of machining difficult materials such as 303, 304, and 316 stainless, titanium, and Inconel, as well as the ability to develop optimized and efficient processes.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Programming: Create, edit, and optimize CNC programs for Swiss-type machines (KSI, Star, Tsugami, Citizen, etc.). Develop toolpaths using Esprit CAD/CAM software. Interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, and customer requirements to plan machining processes. Select tooling, cutting parameters, and machining strategies for accuracy and efficiency.
Machine Set-Up: Perform complete setups on CNC Swiss lathes, including tooling, offsets, bar feeder setup, and workholding. Load and verify programs; complete First Article Inspections (FAIs) to ensure readiness for production. Collaborate with Quality Control to validate part accuracy and process capability.
Troubleshooting: Diagnose and resolve machining issues including tool wear, chatter, dimensional errors, and finish problems. Optimize cycle times and machine performance to reduce downtime and increase throughput.
Quality & Documentation: Use precision instruments (micrometers, calipers, indicators, vision systems, etc.) to verify parts. Maintain setup sheets, process notes, and inspection documentation.
Ensure compliance with internal quality systems and customer-specific requirements (ISO, AS9100, medical device, etc.).
Maintenance & Safety: Perform routine maintenance and care of Swiss machines. Maintain a clean, organized, and safe working environment. Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency and process reliability.
REQUIRED EXPERIENCE
5+ years of hands on experience in Swiss setup and programming.
Advanced proficiency in CNC programming. (Fanuc, G-code, Esprit CAM)
Deep understanding of GD&T and complex blueprint inspection.
Experience with multi-axis Swiss machines. (5-8 axis is typical)
Strong problem solving, and mechanical aptitude.
Prior work in high precision manufacturing. (Medical, Aerospace, Defense etc.)
Must have strong knowledge of machining difficult materials such as 303, 304, and 316 stainless, titanium, and Inconel, as well as the ability to develop optimized and efficient processes.
Must be US Citizen or Green Card Holder.
PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS
Experience with KSI, Citizen, Star, or Tsugami machines.
Knowledge of CAM systems such as MasterCam, PartMaker, or Gibbs Cam.
Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing, and 5S.
Ability to support training or mentoring for junior technical staff.