Experienced Set Up Machinist

Pay: $27–$35/hr
Schedule: Full-time | 8-hour shifts | Day, Evening, Night | Overtime available
Location: Santa Ana, California

Ricaurte Precision, Inc. (RPI) is an industry-leading, technology-first precision machine shop specializing in complex, tight-tolerance components for aerospace, medical, defense, energy, and advanced manufacturing industries. With 24/7 lights-out automation, 5-axis machining, Swiss, multi-axis lathes, and advanced inspection systems, RPI produces more than 300 precision parts monthly with tolerances as tight as ±0.0002”.

We are seeking an experienced CNC Set Up Machinist to join our team. This person will set up and operate multi-axis CNC machines, perform first-article and in-process inspections, and maintain exceptional quality in a fast-paced, high-precision environment.

What You’ll Do (Job Responsibilities)

• Set up and operate CNC mills and/or lathes (multi-axis, live-tooling, Swiss, or 5-axis depending on experience).
• Read and interpret blueprints, setup sheets, digital work instructions, tool lists, and GD&T.
• Install and align tooling, fixtures, vises, and attachments according to job requirements.
• Perform first article inspections and make program or offset adjustments as needed.
• Run production cycles according to work orders, priorities, and production management direction.
• Inspect parts throughout production to maintain tight tolerances and ensure consistent quality.
• Enter required data into ERP (ProShop), QMS (HighQA), and machine monitoring systems (Datanomix).
• Document and report non-conforming parts, including root-cause analysis and corrective actions.
• Assist programmers, production managers, and leads to optimize workflow and minimize machine downtime.
• Support continuous improvement through tooling optimization, fixture organization, and process feedback.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Perform other machining or shop tasks as assigned.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of CNC machining experience in a tight-tolerance, precision manufacturing environment.
• Strong ability to set up CNC machines independently, including tooling, fixtures, and program edits.
• Proficient with G-code, offsets, probing, and multi-axis machining processes.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to contribute effectively in a fast-paced team environment.
• Willingness to assist other departments to support overall shop productivity.
• Strong alignment with RPI’s Core Values:
  • Excellence in Communication
  • Attention to Detail & Quality
  • Flexibility & Resourcefulness
  • Eagerness to Grow
  • Gratitude for Team & Clients

Benefits

• 401(k) + company match
• Medical, dental, vision
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Stable Monday–Friday schedule with available overtime
• Growth opportunities in a state-of-the-art, automation-driven machine shop

Pay Range

$27.00 – $35.00 per hour, depending on experience and technical capability.