Lathe Setup Technician I

Job Summary

The Lathe Setup Technician 1 is responsible for setting up and verifying Haas CNC lathe operations, ensuring jobs are configured to run safely, accurately, and efficiently. In addition to standard machine operation and in-process inspection tasks, this role involves interpreting blueprints and setup sheets, selecting tooling and fixtures, dialing in work offsets, and supporting production with troubleshooting and process stabilization. The technician works closely with Quality Control to validate first articles and assists with training and supervising Lathe Operators. This role requires a higher level of technical skill, attention to detail, and cross-functional communication to maintain consistent throughput and dimensional accuracy across multiple shifts.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent (preferred)
• 3+ years of CNC lathe experience in a manufacturing environment (required)
• Demonstrated proficiency in setup of Haas CNC lathes without live tooling
• Experience with G-code interpretation, tool setting, and chuck alignment preferred

Knowledge

• Lathe Setup Practices – Proficient in part holding (e.g., chuck, collet, soft jaw alignment), tooling installation, and offset setting
• Blueprint and GD&T Interpretation – Strong ability to interpret part prints, tolerances, and machining sequences
• Inspection Equipment – Skilled in using calipers, micrometers, dial indicators, bore gauges, thread gauges, and height gauges
• Process Troubleshooting – Ability to identify and correct dimensional issues, tool wear problems, and setup errors
• First Article Validation – Experience working with QC to inspect and approve setups before production release
• Production Flow Awareness – Understanding how lathe operations fit within a larger production sequence
• English Language – Ability to read and understand work instructions, technical documentation, and safety procedures

Skills

• Proficient in setting up Haas CNC lathes to run short-run or high-volume jobs
• Capable of verifying part conformity through in-process inspection and FAI protocols
• Strong mechanical ability to adjust offsets, replace tooling, and align workholding
• Organized and able to record setup parameters, tooling usage, and run data
• Clear and professional communicator across departments (QC, leads, operators)
• Ability to train and mentor Lathe Operators in loading, inspection, and basic troubleshooting
• Works independently and efficiently under shifting production needs

Work Context

Responsibility for Others

• Responsible for maintaining a safe workspace and following procedures to avoid injury to self or others
• Expected to lead by example in safety, quality, and communication
• Involved in onboarding, cross-training and/or supervision of new and existing production personnel

Work Setting

• Shop floor machining environment
• Routine exposure to cutting fluids, metal chips, and moderate noise levels
• Daily interaction with other setup technicians, machine operators and quality inspectors

Job Hazards

• Potential for contact with rotating machinery, sharp tooling, and hot chips if proper safety procedures are not followed
• Risk of repetitive motion fatigue, wrist strain, or lifting-related discomfort if ergonomic practices are neglected
• Exposure to cutting fluids and airborne particulates, mitigated through use of PPE and proper ventilation
• All hazards are controlled through required training, machine guarding, PPE usage, and adherence to company safety protocols

Body Positioning

• Approximately 85% standing or walking, 15% lifting
• Frequent bending, reaching, and manual loading of bar stock or part blanks
• Occasional lifting of parts or raw material up to 50 lbs; team lift required for heavier items

Basic Work Attire

• Shop-appropriate work shirt and pants
• Steel-toe shoes or boots
• Safety glasses are always required in machining areas
• Gloves, ear protection, and high-visibility gear as required by area policy

Primary Job Duties

• Review setup sheets, travelers, and blueprints to determine workholding, tooling, and zeroing requirements
• Install and align chuck jaws, collets, or fixtures for proper part holding to ensure correct orientation and repeatability
• Load tools and set tool lengths and work offsets in Haas control system
• Perform test cuts and in-process measurements to validate setup prior to handing job off to operators
• Collaborate with Quality Control to complete and approve First Article Inspections (FAI)
• Diagnose and resolve setup-related issues such as chatter, tool rubbing, or out-of-tolerance dimensions
• Train and support Lathe Operators in correct loading, operation, and inspection procedures
• Train and support other Lathe Setup Technicians in best setup practices.
• Maintain accurate records of setup parameters, tool usage, and part count documentation
• Ensure work area is clean, organized, and free of obstructions; enforce safety best practices
• Communicate with programming and leadership if job prints, models, or tooling lists need revision
• Assist with rework or secondary operations if time allows and workload requires

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.