CNC Machinist II

Oakville, Ontario Description

The CNC Machinist II is an experienced machining professional capable of independently setting up, operating, and troubleshooting 5-axis CNC mills and CNC lathes with minimal supervision. This role is suited to someone who brings confidence across the full setup process, including tooling selection, workholding, probing, and in-process verification, and who can take ownership of complex parts from first article through to final inspection.

The CNC Machinist II works independently on assigned jobs, supports junior machinists, and collaborates closely with programmers, quality, and engineering to maintain precision and production flow. This role is a key stepping stone toward senior and lead-level responsibilities and requires a demonstrated commitment to quality, accuracy, and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities:

Machining and Technical Operations

• Independently set up and operate 3-axis and 5-axis CNC milling machines and CNC lathes, including fixturing, tool selection, coordinate setting, offset entry, and probing routines.
• Review setup sheets, work instructions, and CNC programs prior to machining; identify and raise any discrepancies or concerns before cutting begins.
• Troubleshoot machining issues including toolpath deviations, offset errors, dimensional non-conformances, and surface finish problems, applying corrective action as required.
• Interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and GD&T callouts accurately to verify setup and machining parameters throughout the job.
• Perform in-process inspection using precision measurement tools, probing cycles, and metrology equipment to maintain part accuracy and process discipline.

Equipment Upkeep and Maintenance Support

• Conduct daily and routine machine checks including coolant management, chip clearing, lubrication, and general housekeeping to maintain equipment performance.
• Identify and document early signs of machine performance degradation and communicate findings to the machining lead promptly.
• Assist in maintaining tooling libraries, preset records, and fixture storage to support consistent, repeatable setups across the machine shop.
• Support preventive maintenance activities as directed by the machining lead and contribute to maintaining long-term machine health and uptime.

Quality and Process Discipline

• Follow all AS9100 procedures, internal work instructions, and documentation requirements without exception.
• Complete travelers, setup sheets, inspection records, and process documentation accurately and at the point of completion.
• Apply probing routines and measurement verification consistently throughout the machining process to prevent out-of-tolerance conditions.
• Collaborate with quality and engineering teams to resolve non-conformances, support root cause analysis, and prevent reoccurrence.

Team Support and Mentorship

• Provide practical guidance and support to CNC Machinist team members on setup techniques, inspection practices, and equipment care.
• Assist in onboarding new machinists and share knowledge of specific machines, programs, and shop practices to accelerate their development.
• Collaborate with CNC programmers, quality, engineering, and planning teams to resolve machining issues and improve production processes.
• Contribute to a shop floor culture of shared accountability, continuous learning, and high workmanship standards.

Professional Attributes and Team Contribution

• Take full ownership of assigned work, from setup through final inspection, with a consistent focus on accuracy, quality, and efficiency.
• Communicate clearly and proactively with the machining lead and team members, raising technical concerns, schedule risks, or quality issues before they escalate.
• Demonstrate composure and methodical problem solving when encountering unexpected issues, using technical knowledge to identify root causes and restore production flow.
• Actively develop technical depth by seeking exposure to more complex setups, advanced materials, and challenging programs that build toward senior and lead-level capability.

Requirements:

Technical Skills & Experience

• Minimum 5 years of CNC machining experience, with demonstrated ability to independently set up, operate, and troubleshoot 5-axis CNC mills and CNC lathes.
• Proven capability in workholding setup, tooling selection, coordinate setting, offset management, and probing routines without ongoing supervision.
• Proficiency in blueprint reading, G-code interpretation, and GD&T application across precision components.
• Skilled in probing cycles, in-process inspection, and use of precision measurement tools including micrometers, bore gauges, and surface plates.
• Experience operating FANUC-controlled machining centers and lathes, including program adjustments and troubleshooting.
• Experience with Wire EDM or Sink EDM equipment is a strong asset.
• Exposure to CNC programming for milling or turning is considered an asset.
• Demonstrated commitment to safety, including the ability to identify risks and reinforce safe operating practices within the shop environment.
• Strong understanding of quality standards and company procedures, with the ability to follow and uphold established expectations consistently.

Industry & Material Knowledge

• Experience in aerospace machining or other high-precision industries such as medical or defense is preferred.
• Familiarity with AS9100 documentation practices and quality-focused manufacturing processes.
• Experience machining high-performance materials including titanium, Inconel, or aerospace-grade aluminum alloys.

Education and Professional Attributes

• College diploma or certificate in Machining, Precision Manufacturing, or a related skilled trade is considered an asset; Red Seal Certification is highly valued; equivalent hands-on experience will also be recognized.
• Demonstrates strong problem-solving skills with the ability to independently diagnose and resolve machining issues across multiple machine platforms.
• Communicates clearly, manages time and workload effectively, and works well within a fast-paced, collaborative manufacturing environment.
• A detail-oriented and technically capable professional who holds a high standard for accuracy, workmanship, and safety.
• A reliable contributor who takes ownership of their work, supports the broader machining team, and is actively building toward senior and lead-level capability.