CNC Machinist 2nd Shift - Lathe

At a Glance

Company: Thorlabs
Location: Newton, NJ (on-site)
Job Type: Full-Time
Pay Range: $26-$40 per hour (based on experience)
Shift: 2nd Shift Monday-Friday 3:45 PM-12:15 AM
Shift Differential: Yes plus sign on bonus
Overtime: As needed
Experience Level: Mid-Level 3-5+ years CNC machining experience
Work Authorization: Must be authorized to work in the United States

Why This Role Exists

As Thorlabs continues expanding its precision manufacturing capabilities, the company is growing its CNC team to support production demands for components used in photonics technologies and scientific innovation.

This role plays an important part in producing precision-machined components that support researchers, engineers, and emerging technologies worldwide. The 2nd Shift CNC Lathe Machinist position helps maintain production flow while supporting high-quality output and on-time delivery.

The Work You'll Be Doing

In this role, you will:

• Set up and operate CNC turning and lathe equipment
• Load, run, edit, and troubleshoot CNC programs as needed
• Machine precision components, fixtures, and tooling to tight tolerances
• Read and interpret blueprints, GD&T, and inch/metric drawings
• Set tooling, offsets, and workholding for production runs
• Inspect parts using precision measurement tools
• Troubleshoot dimensional or machining issues and make process adjustments
• Perform first-article and in-process inspections
• Support production priorities and on-time delivery requirements
• Perform routine machine maintenance and maintain an organized workspace

Machines, Controls & Software

You'll work with equipment and systems such as:

Machines:

• CNC lathes
• CNC turning equipment
• Precision production machinery

Controls:

• Haas
• Fanuc

Software / Programming:

• Virtual Gibbs
• G-code / M-code editing
• DNC systems

Inspection Equipment:

• Calipers
• Micrometers
• Precision measurement tools
• First-article inspection equipment

Materials You'll Work With

Machinists may work with:

• Aluminum
• Stainless steel
• Precision metals
• Specialty materials requiring tight tolerances and complex geometries

What We're Looking ForRequired:

• 3+ years of CNC machining experience
• Experience setting up and operating CNC lathes or turning equipment
• Ability to read blueprints and understand GD&T
• Strong understanding of tooling, offsets, and machine setup
• Experience inspecting precision-machined parts
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities
• Reliable, detail-oriented, and safety-minded

Preferred (Not Required):

• CNC certification or trade school education
• Experience with Haas and Fanuc controls
• Virtual Gibbs experience
• Manual G-code/M-code editing
• DNC system familiarity
• Prototype machining experience
• Lean manufacturing experience
• Setup reduction / SMED exposure

Why Machinists Like Working Here

Machinists choose Thorlabs because:

• Work on products that support scientific discovery and advanced technology
• Stable company with over 35 years of growth and innovation
• Shift differential offered for 2nd shift employees
• Collaborative culture built around Respect, Trust, Innovation, Accountability, and Empathy
• Modern manufacturing environment
• Opportunities for growth and continued skill development
• Team atmosphere where ideas and contributions matter

Pay, Benefits & Schedule

Pay Range: $26-$40/hour DOE
Shift Differential: Additional premium available for 2nd shift

Benefits:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Company-paid life insurance
• 401(k)
• Generous PTO package
• Tuition reimbursement
• Career development opportunities

Schedule:

Monday-Friday
3:45 PM-12:15 AM

Overtime: As needed

Apply

Interested machinists can apply directly through hireCNC.

Apply Now or Save This Job to come back later.