Job Description

Job Title: Machine Operator - Honing Machines

Location: Houston, TX 77054

Duration: 12 months (possible extension)

Pay Rate: $20.00 – $25.00/hr on W2

Shift: 1st Shift, 4:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Position Summary

The Honing Operator will operate horizontal honing machines to produce precision components that meet required dimensional, geometric, and surface-finish specifications. This position involves machine setup and operation, precision inspection, overhead crane-assisted material handling, equipment maintenance, and supporting additional machining and finishing operations as needed.

The ideal candidate will have strong honing experience, attention to detail, and the ability to work with complex, high-value machined components while maintaining tight tolerances and surface-finish requirements.

Required Qualifications

• 5+ years of honing machine operation experience preferred.
• Direct experience operating horizontal honing machines.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, specifications, and work instructions.
• Strong knowledge of precision measurements, tolerances, bore dimensions, and surface-finish requirements.
• Experience working with complex, high-value machined components.
• Ability to perform in-process and final inspections using precision measuring equipment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience operating Sunnen or similar honing machines.
• Experience with overhead crane operation and safe rigging practices.
• Forklift experience or certification is a plus.
• Experience operating additional machining or finishing equipment.
• Experience with gun drilling and/or deburring operations.
• Willingness to cross-train on other manufacturing equipment and processes.

Key Skills

• Horizontal honing machine operation
• Precision measurement and inspection
• Tight-tolerance machining
• Surface-finish control
• Blueprint/engineering drawing interpretation
• Overhead crane operation
• Machine setup and tooling
• Quality inspection

Key Responsibilities

• Operate horizontal honing machines, including Sunnen or similar equipment, to perform precision honing operations.
• Set up honing tools, stones, mandrels, fixtures, and machine parameters according to specifications and work instructions.
• Safely load and unload workpieces using overhead cranes and appropriate lifting devices.
• Inspect lifting equipment before use and follow established crane, rigging, and safety procedures.
• Monitor machining processes and make necessary adjustments to achieve required bore size, geometry, and surface finish.
• Read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and work instructions.
• Perform in-process and final inspections using bore gauges, micrometers, calipers, and other precision measuring instruments.
• Record inspection results and production information as required.
• Perform routine machine cleaning, lubrication, and preventive maintenance.
• Identify and report equipment malfunctions, tooling problems, and quality concerns.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area in accordance with 5S and safety standards.
• Follow all company safety, quality, and environmental procedures.
• Support additional machining and finishing operations, including gun drilling and deburring, as needed.