Job Description

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Advanced Machining & Programming

• Set up, program, and operate CNC and/or manual mills, lathes, grinders, and other machine shop tools with minimal supervision.
• Develop and optimize machining programs, tool paths, speeds, and feeds to achieve required tolerances and surface finishes.
• Interpret complex engineering drawings, GD&T callouts, and 3D models to determine machining methods.
• Select appropriate tooling, fixtures, and work-holding devices; design simple fixtures when needed.
• Machine tight-tolerance or complex parts requiring advanced problem-solving and precision.

Inspection & Quality Control

• Perform advanced dimensional inspections using micrometers, bore gauges, height gauges, optical comparators, indicators, and CMM equipment (as applicable).
• Verify compliance with engineering specifications and document inspection results.
• Troubleshoot part quality issues and correct machining processes to prevent recurrence.
• Support First Article Inspection (FAI) documentation when required.

Troubleshooting & Process Optimization

• Identify machining inefficiencies, recommend improvements, and assist in implementing optimized processes.
• Diagnose root causes of machining defects, tool wear, vibration, and performance issues.
• Collaborate with engineering on manufacturability improvements and design adjustments.

Leadership & Training

• Mentor and support junior and mid-level machinists in machining techniques, safety, documentation, and quality practices.
• Assist with onboarding new machinists and machine operators.
• Lead by example in safety, 5S, and machine shop standards.

Maintenance & Safety

• Perform routine machine maintenance and identify when equipment needs repair or calibration.
• Ensure compliance with all safety procedures, PPE requirements, and shop policies.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient work area according to 5S principles.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED; technical school or apprenticeship strongly preferred.
• 5–7+ years of machining experience in a manufacturing or precision machine shop environment.
• Expert proficiency operating manual and CNC machine tools.
• Strong understanding of GD&T, blueprint interpretation, machining math, and material behavior.
• Ability to write, edit, or optimize CNC programs (Fanuc, Haas, Mazak, or similar).
• High proficiency with precision measurement instruments.
• Ability to resolve complex machining issues with minimal guidance.
• Strong communication skills and ability to mentor others.
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs and work extended periods on the shop floor.

Preferred Qualifications

• CNC programming experience using Mastercam, Fusion 360, GibbsCAM, or similar software.
• Experience machining hardened materials, exotic alloys, or complex geometries.
• Experience in ISO 9001, AS9100, or other regulated manufacturing environments.
• Participation in lean manufacturing or continuous improvement initiatives.
• Experience designing fixtures or work-holding solutions.

Work Environment

• Machine shop environment with exposure to cutting fluids, metal chips, rotating machinery, and moderate noise.
• Requires proper PPE including safety glasses, hearing protection, and steel-toe footwear.
• Frequent interaction with machinists, engineers, quality inspectors, and supervisors.

You should be proficient in:

• CNC Programming
• G-Code
• M-Code
• CNC Machine Setup & Changeover
• Manual Machining Skills

Machines & technologies you'll use:

• CNC Mill (3-4 axis VMC) (Fanuc, Mazak, Haas)
• CNC Lathe (2-4 axis) (Mazak, Haas)