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Posted August 22, 2026

CNC Machine Set-Up I

Hu-Friedy Mfg. Co., LLC
West Chicago, IL, US Full Time
25USD - 28USD per hour

Job Description

Job Description
Position Summary

The CNC Machine Set-Up II is responsible for setting up, operating, maintaining, troubleshooting, and optimizing CNC equipment to support safe, efficient, and high-quality manufacturing operations.

This position performs complex machine setups with general supervision and independently completes new and repeat setups, machine changeovers, tooling adjustments, first article inspections, process verification, and machining optimization.

The CNC Machine Set-Up II serves as a technical resource to the manufacturing team, supports Engineering and continuous improvement initiatives, and provides guidance and mentorship to less experienced Machine Operators and CNC Set-Up Technicians.

Location

Northbrook, IL
2501 Sanders Road, Northbrook, IL

Shift Hours
  • 1st Shift: 6:00 AM – 2:30 PM
  • 2nd Shift: 2:00 PM – 10:30 PM
  • 3rd Shift: 10:00 PM – 6:30 AM

Shift differentials may apply.

Key Responsibilities
  1. Practice and promote safe work practices by following company safety policies, PPE requirements, lockout/tagout procedures, and safe material and chip-handling practices.
  2. Set up CNC machines for production, including tooling installation, machine changeovers, fixture alignment, offsets, and machine preparation.
  3. Perform complex setups independently with minimal supervision.
  4. Change and adjust cutting tools, including drills, reamers, boring bars, knurls, inserts, and other live or static tooling.
  5. Perform daily machine maintenance, including cleaning collets and guide bushings, boring jaws, aligning vises and fixtures, lubrication, and routine equipment inspections.
  6. Capture setup, tool-change, and production data using manufacturing data collection systems and accurately complete required production documentation.
  7. Complete first article inspections using precision measuring instruments and verify that all required dimensions meet engineering specifications.
  8. Inspect machined components to ensure conformance with blueprints, workmanship standards, surface finish requirements, and quality specifications.
  9. Perform minor CNC program edits and independently adjust tool offsets, speeds, and feeds to optimize machining processes.
  10. Troubleshoot machining issues within established procedures and collaborate with Engineering and other technical resources on process improvements.
  11. Recommend tooling, setup, cycle-time, and process improvements to increase quality, productivity, and efficiency.
  12. Report machine performance, production rates, tooling concerns, quality issues, and improvement opportunities to supervision and Engineering.
  13. Mentor, train, and provide technical guidance to Machine Operators and less experienced CNC Set-Up Technicians.
  14. Support Lean Manufacturing, continuous improvement, and 5S initiatives.
  15. Follow all applicable quality, GMP, environmental, regulatory, and company requirements.
  16. Perform other duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications
  • 4-7 years of CNC machine setup experience in a precision manufacturing environment.
  • Demonstrated ability to independently perform complex CNC machine setups with minimal supervision.
  • Ability to safely set up and operate CNC lathes, Swiss-type lathes, vertical machining centers, and related manufacturing equipment.
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, GD&T, setup sheets, and work instructions.
  • Ability to use precision measuring equipment, including micrometers, calipers, indicators, bore gages, thread gages, height gages, and comparators.
  • Demonstrated ability to perform first article inspections and verify product conformance to specifications.
  • Ability to perform minor CNC program edits and make adjustments to tool offsets, speeds, and feeds.
  • Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills related to CNC machining processes.
  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, lift, and perform repetitive motions throughout the workday.
  • Ability to work overtime, weekends, or alternate shifts as business needs require.
  • Ability to maintain regular and reliable attendance.
  • Must comply with all company safety, quality, GMP, environmental, and regulatory requirements.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with multi-axis CNC lathes, Swiss-style CNC machines, and vertical machining centers.
  • Experience with HAAS, Citizen, Star, Tsugami, Miyano, or similar CNC equipment.
  • Experience optimizing machining processes, tooling, speeds, feeds, and cycle times.
  • Experience supporting Engineering with process development and continuous improvement projects.
  • Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, 5S, and continuous improvement methodologies.
  • Experience working in a regulated manufacturing environment; medical device manufacturing preferred.
  • Experience mentoring or training CNC operators and less experienced setup personnel.
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to stand for extended periods.
  • Ability to lift up to 35 lbs. occasionally.
  • Manual dexterity to handle small precision parts, tooling, and measuring equipment.
  • Ability to perform repetitive motions and work in a manufacturing environment.
What We Offer
  • Competitive pay based on experience
  • Shift differentials for 2nd and 3rd shifts
  • Comprehensive benefits package
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Opportunities for career growth and advancement
  • Work in a high-precision manufacturing environment
  • Fitness Center access
Equal Employment Opportunity & Accessibility Statement

HuFriedyGroup is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, religion, age, gender, national origin, disability status, genetics, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

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