Bridgeport Operator – 1st Shift

Location: Westfield, MA

Job Type: Full-Time, Direct Hire

Pay: $30.00–$37.00 per hour

Schedule: Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM–3:30 PM

About the Position

We are seeking an experienced Bridgeport Operator / Manual Machinist to join our manufacturing team in Westfield, MA. This position is responsible for setting up and operating Bridgeport and other conventional machine tools to produce precision metal parts, fixtures, and tooling according to customer specifications, engineering drawings, tooling instructions, and established operating procedures.

The ideal candidate will have strong manual machining experience, particularly with Bridgeport machines, along with the ability to independently set up, operate, inspect, and troubleshoot a variety of conventional machine tools.

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, break down, and perform routine maintenance on conventional machine tools, including:- Bridgeport mills

  • Prototrak-controlled equipment
  • Jig bores
  • Jig grinders
  • Surface grinders
  • Manual lathes
  • Honing machines

• Produce parts, fixtures, and tooling according to verbal and written instructions.

• Read and interpret customer blueprints, company operation sheets, dimensions, tolerances, and setup requirements.

• Determine the proper sequence of machining operations.

• Calculate appropriate speeds and feeds.

• Inspect finished work and verify dimensions using micrometers, calipers, indicators, preset gages, and other inspection equipment.

• Monitor tooling and machining processes, take measurements, identify malfunctions, and troubleshoot as needed.

• Replace worn tooling and make adjustments to maintain required specifications.

• Record job times and quantities of materials used.

• Maintain accurate production and quality documentation.

• Follow AS9100/ISO 9001 requirements, including documentation, revision control, traceability, and lot control.

• Maintain tools, gages, machinery, and work areas in a clean, organized, and safe condition.

• Perform daily equipment and work-area maintenance.

• Follow established safety procedures and wear required PPE.

• Follow 6S workplace organization procedures.

• Report equipment issues, quality concerns, and other discrepancies to the appropriate supervisor.

• Work independently with minimal supervision while meeting production requirements.

• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Technical or trade school education preferred.
• Proven experience as a Manual Machinist, with significant Bridgeport experience.
• Strong mechanical aptitude.
• Ability to independently set up and operate manual machining equipment.
• Experience with Bridgeport, Prototrak, jig bore, jig grinder, surface grinder, manual lathe, and honing equipment.
• Ability to use precision inspection equipment, including micrometers, calipers, and indicators.
• Ability to read and interpret basic blueprints and manufacturing operation sheets.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Basic computer skills.
• Good time-management skills.
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Must successfully complete the Certified Operator Program and maintain certification.

Work Environment

This is a hands-on manufacturing environment with exposure to:

• High noise levels from operating machinery
• Moving equipment and machine hazards
• Sharp machine parts and metal edges
• Oil, cutting fluids, fumes, dust, and mist
• Forklifts and other industrial equipment

Appropriate PPE and established safety procedures are required.

The position may occasionally require travel between the Southwick and Westfield facilities.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to read applicable customer and manufacturing documents with or without corrective lenses.
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds as required.
• Ability to push, pull, reach overhead, stand, walk, climb stairs, bend, and sit for extended periods.
• Ability to safely perform the physical requirements of a hands-on machining environment.

Why Apply?

• $30.00–$37.00 per hour
• Full-time, direct-hire opportunity
• 1st shift: Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM–3:30 PM
• Stable manufacturing environment
• Opportunity to work with a variety of conventional machining equipment
• Opportunity to utilize and expand your manual machining skills
• Work in an environment focused on quality, safety, and continuous improvement

If you are an experienced Manual Machinist or Bridgeport Operator who can independently set up and operate conventional machine tools, read blueprints, and produce precision parts to tight specifications, we'd like to hear from you.