About RTCA:
RTCA is a precision aerospace and defense manufacturing group built on decades of hands-on machining expertise, with roots spanning more than 50 years. We support mission-critical commercial and government aerospace programs across North America through four U.S. Centers of Excellence operating as an integrated platform with 150+ CNC machines and a team of 250+ professionals.
Unlike large organizations where roles can be narrow, RTCA offers hands-on ownership and real visibility – you understand how your work supports the team, the operation, and the end customer. Our flat structure allows employees to take initiative, grow their skills, and have their contributions recognized, while still providing the stability, advanced technology, and meaningful work of an established aerospace manufacturer.
At RTCA, we believe in teamwork, excellence, and delivering with pride. One Team! One Mission!
How You’ll Make an Impact:
The 5 Axis Mill/Lathe Setup Machinist is responsible for independently setting up and operating CNC machines to produce precision aerospace components. This role requires a strong understanding of feeds, speeds, and tooling to improve operational efficiency and ensure conformance to specifications. Working closely with Quality, Engineering, and Operations, the CNC Setup Operator II contributes to continuous improvement while maintaining high standards of safety, accuracy, and productivity.
What you’ll be doing as a 5 Axis Mill/Lathe Setup Machinist:
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Working a full-time, onsite position at our Fife, WA location.
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Set up CNC machines, including loading fixtures, boring jaws, selecting and setting tools, and running programs.
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Make offset adjustments and tool changes as required, ensuring optimal machining performance.
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Adjust feeds, speeds, and tooling to improve efficiency and prevent non-conforming parts.
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Perform and document first article inspections, presenting results to the Quality department.
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Verify workpiece conformance using precision measuring instruments (micrometers, calipers, indicators, height gages, etc.).
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Interpret and work from blueprints, drawings, setup sheets, and written specifications.
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Operate multiple machines simultaneously, including 4-axis and 5-axis equipment.
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Monitor machine performance, troubleshoot minor issues, and provide tie-in notes to communicate status across shifts.
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Maintain high efficiency, quality standards, and low scrap/rework rates.
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Perform preventive maintenance on machines and tooling in accordance with schedules.
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Collaborate with Quality and Engineering to identify improvements and resolve machining challenges.
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Ensure adherence to safety protocols and contribute to a clean, organized work environment.
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Performs other duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications (Education, skills and experience):
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Minimum 3 years of CNC setup and operating experience in a manufacturing environment.
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Strong knowledge of feeds, speeds, and tooling for aerospace-grade metals and alloys.
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Proficient in blueprint reading, geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T), and trigonometry.
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Skilled in setting up and inspecting workpieces with precision measuring instruments.
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Experience with 4th and 5th axis machines, capable of running multiple machines simultaneously.
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Ability to make accurate offsets and adjustments within ±.002 tolerance.
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Mechanically inclined with excellent manual dexterity and attention to detail.
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Strong math aptitude, problem-solving skills, and ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
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Effective communication skills, both written and verbal.
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Proficient with Microsoft Office applications for basic documentation and reporting.
Preferred Qualifications (Education, skills and experience):
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Experience with advanced CNC controls such as Fanuc, Haas, Mazak, or Siemens.
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Familiarity with CAM software (e.g., Mastercam, Fusion 360, Espirit) for program review or minor edits.
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Prior experience in aerospace manufacturing environments or working with AS9100 quality standards.
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Ability to read and interpret complex GD&T callouts and perform tolerance stack-up analysis.
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Experience with in-process inspection techniques and statistical process control (SPC).
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Knowledge of cutting tool optimization, tool life management, and cost reduction strategies.
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Experience troubleshooting machining issues such as chatter, tool wear, and thermal distortion.
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Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., 5S, Kaizen).
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Ability to assist with fixture design, work holding improvements, or process development.
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Basic CNC programming or editing skills (G-code knowledge preferred).
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Experience using ERP/MRP systems for tracking jobs, materials, and production status.
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Willingness to mentor junior operators and contribute to team development.
Compensation and Benefits:
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Medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
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Choice of medical plan options, including a no-cost employee-only coverage plan
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HSA-eligible health plan with employer contributions
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Basic and supplemental life insurance
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Long-term disability coverage
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401(k) plan with up to a 6% QACA company match
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Paid time off including vacation, sick time, and nine (9) paid company holidays
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Shift differentials for applicable off-shifts
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Discretionary bonus programs based on position and company performance
The 5 Axis Mill/Lathe Setup Machinist Compensation range for onsite Washington applicants is $25 – $40 per hour commensurate with experience. Some shifts may include shift differential pay rates. Other site ranges may differ.
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
This position must meet Export Control compliance requirements, therefore a “US Person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.15 is required.
RTCA is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
Applicants wishing to receive information on RTCA’s Affirmative Action Plans, or those requiring a reasonable accommodation to participate in the application or interview process, should contact the RTCA Human Resources Department. Qualified individuals with disabilities or disabled veterans who are unable or limited in their ability to access or use our career center due to a disability may request a reasonable accommodation by contacting Human Resources.
Candidates will receive consideration without discrimination in accordance with Article 9, Chapter XVIII of the City of Los Angeles Municipal Code and applicable federal, state, and local laws.
