Senior CNC Milling Machinist (3, 4 & 5 Axis)

1st & 2nd Shift Available | 20% Shift Differential for 2nd Shift
Location: Barkhamsted, CT

About Sterling Engineering

Sterling Engineering is a professional, agile, and growing small business located in Barkhamsted, Connecticut. We are a leading global manufacturer of precision aerospace components, committed to delivering high-quality products and continuously improving our processes, technology, and workforce.

Job Summary

Sterling Engineering is seeking experienced Senior CNC Milling Machinists to perform advanced setup and operation of multi-axis CNC milling machines, including 3-, 4-, and 5-axis vertical and horizontal mills. This role supports both production and prototype work and plays a critical role in maintaining quality, efficiency, and continuous improvement.

Essential Functions

• Set up and operate CNC milling machines; perform preventive maintenance as required
• Verify correct tools, programs, and offsets prior to machining
• Conduct first article and in-process inspections per inspection plans
• Inspect parts and notify CNC Programmers of tooling or equipment issues
• Adjust tooling and machine controls to meet blueprint and specification requirements
• Perform trial runs to verify machine accuracy and program reliability
• Troubleshoot machining issues and recommend process improvements
• Identify and report out-of-specification (OOS) parts; tag and communicate issues to Quality
• Coordinate with the Quality department to ensure compliance with specifications
• Maintain inspection compliance throughout production runs
• Complete all required job paperwork and production travelers accurately
• Maintain clean, safe, and organized work areas, machines, and tooling
• Label and route completed parts to the next operation
• Support productivity and quality goals through consistent setups and efficient workflows
• Provide production status feedback to the Milling Programming Manager
• Assist and mentor junior machinists as needed

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; technical certificate preferred
• Minimum 3+ years of experience programming and operating CNC machines in a mid- to heavy-manufacturing environment
• Equivalent combination of education, training, and experience will be considered

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Working knowledge of CNC milling machine setup and operation
• Proficient with precision measuring instruments (calipers, micrometers, depth gauges, indicators, etc.)
• Strong understanding of GD&T and blueprint reading
• Solid math skills including geometry and trigonometry
• Familiarity with ISO and general quality manufacturing standards (training provided)
• Experience with ERP systems, Epicor preferred
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Adaptability in a fast-paced, changing manufacturing environment
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
• Ability to communicate clearly in English, both verbally and in writing
• Strong teamwork and mentoring capabilities

Equal Employment Opportunity

Sterling Engineering Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, pregnancy, age, disability, marital status, genetic information, or any other status protected by law.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $25.00 - $32.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Experience:

• Machining: 3 years (Required)

Shift availability:

• Day Shift (Required)
• Night Shift (Required)

Work Location: In person