Swiss CNC Machinist (Setup & Operate)

Description

Swiss Machinist (Setup & Operate) 

Pay: $28-32/hour

First Shift: 7am - 3:30pm 

About Helix Linear 

Helix Linear Technologies designs and manufactures high-precision motion control systems for industries where performance matters most, including aerospace, medical devices, defense, and advanced automation. Our products power mission-critical applications where reliability and precision down to ±0.0001 inches make all the difference.

Our vision is to engineer what’s possible in motion, with precision, integrity, and purpose. We pursue that vision by designing, machining, grinding, and assembling critical motion components in-house, including precision ball screws and linear systems. Our clean, climate-controlled facility is equipped with advanced manufacturing equipment including Citizen Swiss lathes, multi-axis CNC mills, precision grinders, and specialized assembly and test systems.

Helix is growing and investing in new equipment, advanced processes, and the systems required to scale with discipline. As we expand, we’re building a world-class precision manufacturing operation, which means higher standards for ownership, communication, urgency, and accountability across every role on the floor.

Machinists here are not button-pushers, they are skilled craftsmen and problem-solvers who take pride in their work and ownership of the quality of every part that leaves their machine.

About the Role

The Swiss CNC Machinist (Setup & Operate) is responsible for setting up, running, and maintaining Citizen Swiss machines to produce high-precision components used in aerospace, medical, and defense applications.

This role requires a machinist who can independently complete setups, troubleshoot issues,

make minor program adjustments, and ensure parts consistently meet tight specifications.

Success in this role requires craftsmanship, accountability, and a proactive mindset. The machinists who thrive at Helix anticipate problems, communicate clearly with teammates, and take pride in delivering precision work that meets the highest quality standards.

Responsibilities

Setup & Operation

• Set up Citizen Swiss machines including tooling, bar stock loading, and program verification
• Perform first-article inspections and confirm repeatability before releasing jobs to production
• Run complex parts while holding tolerances down to ±0.001” or tighter when required
• Monitor machining operations including drilling, grooving, turning, threading, and finishing processes

Troubleshooting & Optimization

• Diagnose and resolve machining issues quickly to minimize downtime
• Adjust offsets, feeds, and speeds to improve cycle time while maintaining part quality
• Replace and maintain tooling to ensure consistent performance and surface finish

Program Adjustments

• Make minor edits to G-code or CAM output when needed (full programming not required)
• Collaborate with engineering or programming teams on setup improvements and manufacturability feedback

Quality & Documentation

• Read and interpret blueprints and GD&T accurately
• Use micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, and other inspection tools confidently
• Maintain setup sheets, inspection records, and production documentation
• Follow all AS9100 quality standards and shop safety procedures

Team Contribution & Continuous Improvement

• Communicate clearly during job handoffs and shift transitions
• Support Lean and continuous improvement initiatives across the shop
• Contribute ideas that improve setups, reduce downtime, or strengthen quality systems
• Model a professional, accountable approach to work that supports Helix’s culture of precision and ownership

What Success Looks Like

• Setups consistently achieve first-pass quality acceptance
• Machines run efficiently with minimal downtime or rework
• Jobs move through your machine without unnecessary delays
• Quality documentation and inspection records are complete and accurate
• You proactively communicate with teammates and supervisors when work is completed or issues arise
• You are viewed as a dependable machinist others trust for complex setups and problem solving

Why Join Helix

At Helix, manufacturing isn’t just what we do, it’s who we are. Our work is built around precision, craftsmanship, and continuous improvement.

You’ll work in a clean, climate-controlled facility with advanced equipment, alongside machinists, engineers, operators, and commercial team members who take pride in their work and hold themselves to high standards.

Helix is building something meaningful, not just high-precision products, but a company defined by integrity, clarity, and disciplined execution in industries where the stakes are high. We engineer with purpose, take ownership of our work, and believe doing things the right way matters.

We offer competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, retirement plans, PTO, and major holidays, along with steady daytime hours and scheduling flexibility to support work–life balance.

If you take pride in solving problems, contributing to a team that values craftsmanship and accountability, and doing work where precision and reliability matter, Helix is a place where your work will truly matter.

Requirements

Who You Are & What You Bring

• 5–10 years of Swiss CNC machining experience including setups and operation (Citizen experience strongly preferred)
• Strong blueprint reading and GD&T interpretation skills
• Ability to consistently hold tight tolerances (typically ±0.001” or tighter)
• Comfortable using precision inspection tools including micrometers, calipers, and bore gauges
• Strong understanding of feeds, speeds, tooling strategy, and surface finish requirements
• Ability to troubleshoot machining issues and keep production moving efficiently
• High accountability and pride in your work, you take ownership of setups, quality, and machine performance
• Reliable, professional, and dependable in attendance and communication
• Comfortable working in a high-mix, low-volume precision manufacturing environment
• Experience with Mitsubishi controls, PartMaker, or similar CAD/CAM tools is helpful but not required
• Exposure to Lean manufacturing or continuous improvement initiatives is a plus

Physical requirements: Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs.

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Helix Linear Technologies is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Due to U.S. export control laws, applicants must be U.S. persons (U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident).