Swiss Operator

Job Summary

The Swiss Operator is responsible for the operation of CNC Swiss-style lathes to produce high-precision components in accordance with engineering drawings and customer specifications. This role involves loading/unloading bar stock, performing in-process inspections, monitoring tooling wear, and conducting basic routine maintenance. While not responsible for setup, the operator must understand machine behavior and collaborate closely with setup technicians. This position requires strong process discipline, attention to detail, and a commitment to safety and quality standards in a high-precision environment.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent (preferred)
• 2+ years of experience operating CNC lathes or Swiss machines in a manufacturing setting (strongly preferred)
• Prior experience with Citizen Swiss machines is a plus

Knowledge

• Swiss Lathe Operation – Understanding of Swiss-style machining principles including bar feeding, cycle initiation, and safe tooling practices
• Inspection Practices – Skilled in the use of calipers, micrometers, height gauges, thread gauges, and visual standards
• Tool Wear Recognition – Ability to detect insert wear or degradation impacting precision or finish
• Routine Maintenance – Familiarity with chip control, cleaning cycles, coolant checks, and basic troubleshooting
• Work Order Interpretation – Able to read job travelers, blueprints, and dimensional specifications
• English Language – Able to follow written and verbal instructions, safety notices, and inspection records

Skills

• Safe and efficient operation of CNC Swiss lathes in a production environment
• Precision measurement and quality verification during active production runs
• Minor tooling adjustments under guidance of setup or lead technician
• Accurate documentation of part counts and inspection outcomes
• Effective communication with setup, programming, and quality teams
• Time management and task ownership with minimal supervision

Work Context

Responsibility for Others

• Maintain a safe and organized work area
• No direct supervisory duties

Work Setting

• CNC machining floor
• Assigned to Swiss-style lathes (e.g., Citizen, Star, Tsugami)
• Exposure to metal chips, coolant, and moderate noise
• Routine collaboration with setup technicians and QC personnel

Job Hazards

• Risk of injury from rotating machinery or sharp tooling if appropriate safety protocols are not followed
• Potential exposure to coolants and airborne particulates (controlled with PPE)
• Repetitive motion, bending, and lifting risks mitigated through proper ergonomics and equipment

Body Positioning

• ~85% standing/walking, 15% lifting
• Regular bending, reaching, and manual handling of bar stock or finished parts
• Occasional lifting up to 50 lbs; heavier loads require team lift

Basic Work Attire

• Shop-appropriate work shirt and pants
• Steel-toe footwear
• Safety glasses required at all times in machining areas
• Additional PPE (gloves, hearing protection, etc.) per area policy

Primary Job Duties

• Operate assigned Swiss CNC lathes as directed by supervisors and work orders
• Load bar stock, verify tooling presence, and initiate programmed cycles
• Monitor part production for tool wear, surface finish, or cycle abnormalities
• Perform routine in-process inspections using approved measurement tools
• Replace inserts or notify setup personnel when critical adjustments are needed
• Maintain clean and functional workspaces, removing chips and checking coolant
• Record production counts and inspection data accurately and legibly
• Escalate issues related to part quality, machine errors, or safety concerns
• May be required to operate CNC equipment in other departments as dictated by production schedules and organizational needs
• Support 5S and continuous improvement efforts
• Follow all company safety procedures and wear required PPE at all times

Note

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an “at will” relationship.