Machinist A

Datwyler is a high‑tech company that supplies system‑critical elastomer components to global markets such as healthcare, mobility, connectivity, general industry, and food & beverage. With more than 25 production sites on four continents, sales in over 100 countries, and a workforce of 8,000+ employees, Datwyler generates annual sales exceeding CHF 1,000 million. The company values respect, trust, and appreciation, building on a 100‑year corporate history.

Summary of Position

The Machinist A will work out of Montgomery, TX (with travel to Montgomery and Gray, LA for training) until the new facility opens in Spring 2027. This highly skilled CNC machining professional is responsible for programming, setting up, operating, troubleshooting, and optimizing CNC lathes, mills, and related equipment to manufacture precision components. The role serves as the department’s technical expert, develops machining strategies, programs new parts, performs complex setups, proves out new jobs, and drives continuous‑improvement initiatives while mentoring Machinist B and Machinist C team members.

Responsibilities

• Program, set up, operate, and optimize CNC lathes, mills, and related machining equipment.
• Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, specifications, and work instructions to determine machining requirements and setup methods.
• Develop and modify CNC programs to support production, quality, and efficiency objectives.
• Perform complex machine setups, tooling selections, fixture installations, and process prove‑outs.
• Troubleshoot machining, programming, tooling, and dimensional issues to maintain production performance.
• Conduct first‑piece, in‑process, and final inspections using precision measuring equipment.
• Recommend and implement process improvements to enhance productivity, quality, safety, and equipment utilization.
• Support new product introductions and manufacturing process development.
• Train, mentor, and provide technical support to Machinist B and Machinist C employees.
• Maintain accurate production, quality, and maintenance records.
• Follow all safety, quality, environmental, and company policies and procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Technical degree, trade‑school certification, apprenticeship completion, or equivalent machining training preferred.
• 5+ years of CNC machining experience required.
• Demonstrated experience programming CNC lathes and mills.
• Extensive experience performing complex machine setups independently.
• Experience proving out new jobs and developing machining processes.
• Experience with Haas, Mazak, or similar CNC controls preferred.
• Experience developing CNC programs from engineering drawings and customer specifications.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Proven ability to program, set up, and operate CNC lathes and mills.
• Proficiency with Haas, Mazak, or similar CNC controls preferred.
• Advanced blueprint reading and GD&T interpretation skills.
• Strong knowledge of tooling, fixtures, work‑holding methods, cutting parameters, and machining processes.
• Proficiency with precision measuring instruments (calipers, micrometers, bore gauges, indicators, height gauges).
• Strong shop mathematics skills, including geometry, trigonometry, and tolerance calculations.
• Effective troubleshooting, problem‑solving, communication, and mentoring abilities.
• Ability to work independently and lead technical initiatives within the department.

Physical Requirements

• Frequent standing and walking throughout the shift.
• Lift, push, pull, and move materials up to 50 lb.
• Bend, stoop, kneel, reach, and perform repetitive motions.
• Work in a manufacturing machining environment using CNC lathes, mills, and associated equipment.
• Wear company‑approved personal protective equipment and comply with all safety and quality requirements.
• Visually inspect machined parts and read measuring instruments.
• Exposure to machinery, noise, lubricants, and metal chips.