Class A Lathe Machinist

Location: Farmingdale, NY | Employment Type: Full-Time | FLSA: Non-Exempt

About the Role

Superior Motion Control is seeking an experienced Class A Lathe Machinist to support precision manufacturing for defense and aerospace applications. This hands-on position sets up, programs, and operates both manual and CNC lathes to produce flight-critical, tight-tolerance components. The ideal candidate brings expert-level machining skills, experience with complex geometries and high-performance alloys, and a strong commitment to quality, traceability, and safe operations.

What You'll Do

• Set up and operate conventional manual lathes and CNC lathes to manufacture precision components.
• Write, edit, and optimize CNC G-code and M-code at the machine controller to improve efficiency and tool life.
• Interpret complex aerospace blueprints, GD&T requirements, and military specifications.
• Select tooling and adjust speeds, feeds, and machining parameters for titanium, Inconel, stainless steel, aluminum, and other specialized metals.
• Perform in-process and first-article inspections, maintaining tolerances that may be as tight as +/- 0.0001 inch.
• Follow applicable aerospace quality systems, including AS9100/ISO 9001 practices, and maintain accurate component traceability.
• Maintain a safe, clean, organized work area and communicate machining or quality issues promptly.

Must-Have Skills and Experience

(These are required for consideration.)

• 5-7 years of precision machining experience using both manual and CNC lathes.
• Ability to independently set up, program, and operate lathe equipment.
• Strong working knowledge of GD&T, advanced cutting-tool selection, and manual workholding methods.
• Proficiency with inspection equipment such as optical comparators, micrometers, bore gauges, and depth gauges.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Must meet applicable defense-contract export-control eligibility requirements. The source job description specifies U.S. citizens or permanent residents; confirm final eligibility criteria before posting.

Nice-to-Have Skills

(These are preferred but not required.)

• Prior machining experience in defense, aerospace, or space-flight manufacturing.
• Completion of a machinist apprenticeship or NIMS certification.
• Experience machining high-nickel alloys and other difficult-to-machine materials.

Who You Are

• Highly detail-oriented, with a quality-first mindset when working on critical components.
• Comfortable working independently on complex setups and solving machining challenges.
• Consistent in following documented procedures, safety requirements, and inspection standards.
• Able to communicate clearly with shop leadership and quality personnel.

Additional Details

• Department: Precision Machine Shop | Reports to: Machine Shop Supervisor / Operations Manager.
• Schedule: Monday-Friday, 7:00 AM-4:30 PM, with overtime
• Pay Range: $38-$48 per hour, depending on experience
• Work Environment: Air-conditioned, non-union precision machine shop.
• Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage; 401(k) with company match; PTO accrual; paid holidays and sick time, subject to current plan terms.
• Travel: Not specified
• Certifications: NIMS or machinist apprenticeship preferred, not required.