Lathe Set Up Lead at KADON PRECISION MACHINING, LLC – Rockford, Illinois

We are seeking an experienced Lathe Setup Lead to join our growing manufacturing team. This role is ideal for a skilled machinist who takes pride in precision work, enjoys solving complex machining challenges, and is willing to share their knowledge by training and mentoring others on the shop floor.

You’ll play a key role in producing high-quality parts while helping strengthen our team through leadership, coaching, and best practices.

What You’ll Do

• Program, set up and optimize CNC lathes for low- to mid-volume precision production
• Interpret complex blueprints, specifications, and GD&T
• Select tooling, offsets, and cutting parameters to ensure quality and efficiency
• Perform first-article inspections and make necessary adjustments
• Troubleshoot machining issues and implement process improvements
• Maintain tight tolerances and high quality standards
• Train and mentor junior machinists and operators
• Support continuous improvement, safety, and 5S initiatives
• Collaborate with programming, quality, and engineering teams as needed

What We’re Looking For

• 7+ years of CNC lathe setup and operation experience (or equivalent hands-on expertise)
• Strong knowledge of machining principles, tooling, and feeds/speeds
• Ability to read and interpret complex prints and GD&T
• Experience holding tight tolerances in a precision manufacturing environment
• Comfortable working independently and leading by example
• A positive attitude and willingness to coach and develop others
• Experience in aerospace or high-precision machining is a plus

Why Join Us

• Work with modern equipment in a clean, organized shop
• Be part of a growing company with long-term stability
• Opportunity to influence processes and mentor the next generation of machinists
• Competitive pay based on experience
• Comprehensive benefits package (medical, dental, vision, 401(k), paid time off, and more)