CNC Set-Up Machinist - 2nd Shift

Signing Bonus | Long-Term Stability | Career Growth

Continental Engineering & Manufacturing (CEM) is a family-owned manufacturing company proudly based in Chaska and Frazee, Minnesota. For over 40 years, we’ve built our business on stability, smart growth, and taking care of our people. In fact, we’re proud to say we have never had a layoff—even through recessions, supply chain disruptions, and economic uncertainty.

If you’re looking for a secure, long-term career with real opportunity to grow, this is the place for you.

Why CEM?

• Signing Bonus
• 40+ years of steady growth with no layoffs—ever
• Family-owned, financially stable company
• Employees stay long-term — many have retired here
• Investment in training, advancement, and modern equipment
• Clean, air-conditioned shop
• Predictable weekday schedule — no weekends

We specialize in precision machining, welding, and assembly and serve customers across North America. Our capabilities include CNC horizontal and vertical milling and turning (with robotic loading), broaching, hobbing, balancing, painting, welding, inspection, and stocking programs. We continue to invest heavily in technology, equipment, and most importantly our people.

Job Summary

The CNC Set-Up Machinist/Lead independently sets up CNC machines for new and repeat jobs. This role also supports operators, runs production lots, edits programs, and ensures quality and safety standards are consistently met. This is a stable, long-term role with opportunities to grow as the company grows.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Independently set up CNC machines and complete first-run parts
• Troubleshoot machine and programming issues
• Read, understand, and edit FANUC programs
• Identify process improvements to reduce cycle times
• Train and support CNC operators
• Inspect finished parts to ensure quality and tolerances
• Perform tool changes and wear offsets
• Communicate production status and issues to supervisors
• Maintain equipment, work areas, and documentation
• Follow and help improve work instructions
• Support other duties as needed

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED
• 4+ years of CNC machining or equivalent experience
• Strong CNC set-up and operation experience
• Ability to read blueprints and work orders
• Experience using inspection tools and gauges
• Strong math skills related to machining
• Dependable, detail-oriented, and safety focused
• Willingness to work overtime as needed

What Sets Us Apart

• Signing Bonus
• Set weekday schedule — no weekends
• Advancement and long-term career growth opportunities
• Air-conditioned shop floor
• Medical insurance with a $500 annual deductible – 100% paid by CEM
• Dental & vision insurance
• Generous PTO (starts accruing day one)
• Paid holidays from day one
• Annual bonuses
• 401(k) with 4% company match
• Quarterly team luncheons & holiday parties
• Small, close-knit team where your work is recognized

Schedule

2nd Shift:
3:30 PM – 2:00 AM
Monday – Thursday

If you’re looking for job security, steady growth, and a company that truly values its employees, CEM is the place to build your future.

Continental Engineering and Manufacturing (CEM) is a family-owned manufacturing company based in Chaska and Frazee, Minnesota. Since 1983, we've been at the forefront of precision machining, welding, and assembly, which has complemented our original focus on drive shaft components and assemblies. We serve a diverse clientele across North America and beyond, offering CNC horizontal and vertical milling, CNC horizontal and vertical turning (with robotic loading), broaching, hobbing, balancing, painting, welding, assembly, inspection, and stocking programs all supported by continuous investments in upgrading equipment and cutting-edge technology.
At Continental, we foster a strong, positive culture that values teamwork, collaboration, respect, and the growth of every individual. With an impressive 43-year history of stability and a proud record of never having a single layoff, we provide our employees with a secure and supportive environment. We invest in our team’s future by offering training programs that empower our members to enhance their skills and advance their careers.
We are ISO 9001-2015 certified and committed to delivering cost-efficient, reliable products while building lasting relationships with customers, vendors, employees, and the community. Our air-conditioned shop, generous benefits, and strong emphasis on work-life balance make us a top choice for manufacturing professionals.