CNC Swiss Machinist - Programmer
$20.00–$40.00+/hr based on experience
Monday–Friday, 8-hour shift, with one 4-hour Saturday shift per month

Sapphire Recruitment is hiring an experienced CNC Swiss Machinist / Programmer for a growing precision machining company. The ideal candidate will be able to program, set up, and operate Swiss-style CNC machines while holding tight tolerances and maintaining strong quality standards.

Responsibilities

• Program, set up, and operate CNC Swiss machines using G-code and CAM software such as Mastercam or Esprit
• Perform full setups, including tooling, guide bushings, bar feeders, and live tooling
• Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and GD&T requirements
• Make offsets and adjustments during production to maintain tight tolerances
• Troubleshoot issues related to tool wear, chatter, dimensional drift, and part quality
• Perform in-process inspections using micrometers, calipers, pin gauges, comparators, and other measuring tools
• Complete first article inspections, maintain inspection records, and follow ISO/quality procedures
• Support cycle time improvement, scrap reduction, routine maintenance, and continuous improvement efforts

Qualifications

• 3+ years of CNC Swiss machining experience
• Strong G-code programming and GD&T knowledge
• Ability to hold tight tolerances, including ±.0005"
• Experience with brass, aluminum, stainless steel, and plastics
• Familiarity with Star or Citizen Swiss machines, bar feeders, and live tooling preferred
• High-volume production, secondary operations, and lean manufacturing experience helpful
• Strong troubleshooting skills, attention to detail, and ability to work independently
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs as needed

This is a strong opportunity for a skilled Swiss machinist who enjoys hands-on programming, setup, operation, and precision work.

To apply, please send your resume to mfgresume@hiresapphire.com for immediate consideration.

Sapphire Recruitment is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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Key Responsibilities
Programming & Setup

• Program Start CNC Swiss machines Star using:
  • G-code
  • CAM software (e.g., Mastercam, Esprit)
• Interpret blueprints, GD&T, and customer drawings
• Select tooling, speeds, feeds, and cutting strategies
• Perform full machine setups including:
  • Tooling installation
  • Guide bushing setup
  • Bar feeder configuration
• Optimize cycle times and reduce scrap

Machine Operation

• Operate Swiss-style CNC lathes during production runs
• Monitor machine performance and adjust offsets as needed
• Perform in-process inspections using:
  • Micrometers
  • Calipers
  • Pin gauges
  • Optical comparators (if applicable)
• Troubleshoot machining issues (tool wear, chatter, dimensional drift)

Quality & Documentation

• Ensure parts meet tolerances and specifications
• Complete first article inspections (FAI)
• Record production data and inspection results
• Maintain traceability (heat numbers, lot control, etc.)
• Follow ISO / quality system procedures

Maintenance & Continuous Improvement

• Perform routine machine maintenance and cleaning
• Identify opportunities for:
  • Cycle time reduction
  • Tool life improvement
  • Process standardization
• Work with engineering on process improvements

Required Skills & Qualifications
Technical Skills

• 3+ years experience with CNC Swiss machines
• Strong understanding of:
  • G-code programming
  • GD&T
  • Tight tolerance machining (±.0005" or better)
• Experience machining materials such as:
  • Brass (C360, CDA260)
  • Aluminum
  • Stainless steel
  • Plastics (PEEK, Delrin)

Equipment Knowledge

• Swiss machines (e.g., Star SR series, Citizen L-series)
• Bar feeders and high-volume production setups
• Live tooling and sub-spindle operations

Soft Skills

• Strong attention to detail
• Problem-solving and troubleshooting mindset
• Ability to work independently and prioritize tasks
• Good communication with supervisors and quality team

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with high-volume production environments
• Familiarity with ERP systems (e.g., JobBOSS²)
• Knowledge of secondary operations (deburring, plating considerations)
• Lean manufacturing or continuous improvement experience

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods
• Lift up to 50 lbs
• Work in a manufacturing environment (noise, coolant, etc.)

Performance Metrics (Typical KPIs)

• Scrap rate
• Cycle time efficiency
• On-time delivery
• First-pass yield
• Machine uptime

Typical Pay Range (U.S.)

• Operator: $20–$30/hr
• Programmer/Setup: $28–$40+/hr
  (varies heavily based on experience and complexity of work)