Salary: $63,500 - 91,000 per year Requirements:
- High school diploma or GED; technical or trade school education is preferred.
- At least 3 years of experience programming and setting up Swiss-style CNC lathes.
- Strong knowledge of G-code programming and CNC machining principles, with experience operating Citizen and Star Swiss machines.
- Ability to interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, GD&T requirements, and process specifications.
- Proficiency with precision measuring instruments and inspection methods.
- Strong troubleshooting, problem-solving, mechanical, and detail-oriented skills.
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced production environment.
- Basic computer skills and familiarity with manufacturing software systems.
- Strong communication and teamwork skills, with a commitment to quality and identifying process improvements.
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift up to 50 pounds; work safely around manufacturing equipment; and perform setup, tooling changes, and inspections requiring manual dexterity.
- Ability to work overtime and flexible schedules when needed.
- Preferred: experience with CAM software such as Esprit, Mastercam, PartMaker, or GibbsCAM; lean manufacturing and continuous improvement; live tooling, sub-spindles, guide bushing applications, or complex Swiss machining; CMM programming or advanced inspection; and CNC machining or manufacturing technology certifications.
- Program, set up, and operate Swiss-style CNC lathes, including Citizen, Star, Tsugami, Tornos, or similar machines.
- Create and edit CNC programs using G-code and CAM software.
- Choose tooling, cutting parameters, workholding, and machine configurations to support effective machining.
- Inspect first pieces and adjust machines to achieve dimensional accuracy.
- Troubleshoot machining, tooling, and equipment problems to reduce downtime.
- Improve cycle times and manufacturing processes while maintaining part quality.
- Complete setup changeovers and confirm programs are ready for production.
- Monitor production runs and provide technical assistance to operators.
- Maintain setup sheets, tooling records, and process documentation.
- Use precision measuring equipment, including micrometers, calipers, optical comparators, and CMMs.
- Work with engineering and quality teams on process improvements and corrective actions.
- Follow safety procedures, quality standards, and company policies.
- Help train machine operators and junior machinists as needed.
- CMMS
- Support
- Hardware
More:
We are hiring a Swiss Lathe Setup Programmer in our Manufacturing department, reporting to the Manufacturing Supervisor or CNC Manager. This role supports quality, productivity, and efficiency in a precision machining environment and works closely with engineering, quality, and production teams. We offer a competitive salary based on experience, overtime opportunities, health, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) with company match, paid time off and holidays, and professional development and training opportunities.
last updated 41 week of 2026
Swiss Lathe Setup Programmer in tucson at Unknown Company
This position is listed as full time and onsite.