Live Tooling CNC Lathe Programmer/ Machinist
About this role
- Company parties
- Competitive salary
- Dental insurance
- Employee discounts
- Health insurance
- Opportunity for advancement
- Paid time off
- Training & development
- Vision insurance
- Wellness resources
- Relocation bonus
- Signing bonus
FERPA Precision Machine is seeking an experienced CNC Lathe Programmer / Machinist to support our growing aerospace and space manufacturing business. This position is responsible for setting up, operating, and optimizing multi-axis CNC turning centers equipped with Y-axis, live tooling, C-axis, and sub-spindles, including our new DN Solutions PUMA 2600SY II.
- Assist with creating, modifying, and optimizing CNC Lathe programs in Mastercam to support production, new part development, and continuous process improvement.
- Set up and operate multi-axis CNC turning centers equipped with Y-axis, live tooling, C-axis, and sub-spindles, including the DN Solutions PUMA 2600SY II.
- Perform first-piece setups, prove out new programs, and optimize machining processes for efficiency, quality, and tool life.
- Configure tooling, tool offsets, work offsets, and cutter compensation as required by job specifications.
- Read and interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, GD&T, and customer specifications.
- Perform detailed inspections using micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, indicators, thread gauges, and other precision measuring equipment to verify part conformity.
- Verify machine setup and ensure compliance with quality standards and customer requirements.
- Design and build custom fixtures and workholding solutions to support efficient production.
- Select appropriate cutting tools, inserts, holders, feeds, speeds, and machining strategies for a variety of materials.
- Troubleshoot machining, tooling, and process issues to maintain productivity and improve cycle times.
- Perform routine machine maintenance and maintain equipment in safe working condition.
- Collaborate with the Lead CNC Lathe Programmer on programming strategies, process improvements, and new job development.
- Work closely with Engineering, Quality, and Production to meet delivery schedules and quality objectives.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
- Perform other duties as assigned to support business and production needs.
- High school diploma or equivalent; technical or vocational machining education preferred.
- 5+ years of experience setting up and operating CNC lathes.
- Experience programming or editing CNC Lathe programs in Mastercam (preferred).
- Experience with multi-axis turning centers featuring live tooling, Y-axis, C-axis, and sub-spindles.
- Experience machining precision metal components from:
- 300 Series Stainless Steel
- Nitronic 50 / Nitronic 60
- 15-5 PH & 17-4 PH Stainless Steel
- Aluminum
- Bronze
- MP35N
- Inconel
- Experience in aerospace, space, or other precision manufacturing environments preferred.
Skills and Competencies
- CNC lathe programming using G-code and M-code.
- Blueprint reading and tolerance interpretation.
- Knowledge of tooling, materials, and cutting parameters.
- Proficiency with precision measuring instruments.
- Strong shop math and troubleshooting skills.
- Detail-oriented, organized, and able to work independently.
- AS9100 and ISO 9001 experience or familiarity is a plus.
Additional Requirements
- This position requires U.S. Person status as defined by applicable law for authorized access to data controlled under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). A U.S. Person includes U.S. Citizens, U.S. Nationals, lawful permanent residents, and workers granted refugee or asylum status in the United States.
Company at a glance
FERPA Precision Machine Inc. was founded in 1990 in Houston, Texas, built on hands-on machining expertise and a commitment to doing things the right way. In its early years, the company operated primarily as a contract manufacturer for sealing companies, producing precision-machined backup rings from high-performance thermoplastics such as PEEK. Through consistent quality, reliability, and responsiveness, FERPA quickly became a trusted manufacturing partner.
As customer needs evolved, so did FERPA. What began as a focused operation supporting sealing manufacturers expanded into the production of small- to medium-sized precision components ranging from simple features to complex geometries. While high-performance plastics remain a core strength, the company has grown to include precision metal machining, broadening its capabilities to support increasingly demanding and diverse applications.
In 2005, FERPA relocated to its current Houston facility to accommodate continued growth. The facility has expanded multiple times since, reflecting sustained investment in capacity, advanced technology, and long-term operational stability.
Today, FERPA Precision Machine operates as an ISO 9001:2015 and AS9100:2016-certified, second-generation, family-owned precision component manufacturer serving energy, industrial, aerospace, and defense markets. With deep expertise in engineered plastics and metals, FERPA integrates in-house manufacturing capabilities with a trusted vendor network to deliver reliable, scalable, turnkey solutions, while remaining grounded in the practical mindset and long-term customer relationships that have defined the company since its founding.
Top Benefits
- Company parties
- Competitive salary
- Dental insurance
- Employee discounts
- Health insurance
- Opportunity for advancement
- Paid time off
- Training & development
- Vision insurance
- Wellness resources
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