Machinist (End Plant)

About the Role

Our Waco, TX facility manufactures aluminum ends/lids for beverage cans used in soft drinks, beers, energy drinks, teas, and non-carbonated beverages. This high-speed manufacturing environment seeks a precision-focused Tool Room Machinist to maintain, repair, and modify high-speed tooling for aluminum end production. Reporting to the Tool Room Coordinator, this role requires expert knowledge of tool and die principles, precision grinding, and specialized machine shop equipment to ensure tooling meets tight tolerances for continuous, high-volume production.

Responsibilities

• Independently perform maintenance, repair, and refurbishment of complex precision tooling components, including dies, punches, cut-edge tooling, and related parts for Shell Press and Conversion machinery.
• Operate specialized manual Tool Room equipment such as surface grinders, vertical and horizontal milling machines, lathes, and high-speed rotary tooling (e.g., lapping and polishing stations).
• Maintain and adjust tooling dimensions to required specifications, working with tolerances as tight as ten-thousandths of an inch (0.0001”).
• Perform rigorous in-process and final inspections of repaired tooling using precision measuring instruments (micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, height gauges, optical comparators).
• Read and interpret complex mechanical blueprints, technical drawings, and engineering specifications to ensure conformance to design standards.
• Document all measurements, repairs, and adjustments in the prescribed tooling tracking system.
• Collaborate with Production, Quality, and Maintenance teams to diagnose tooling failures and perform immediate repairs to minimize downtime.
• Assist in analyzing quality issues (e.g., scoring, burrs, uneven metal) and provide technical input on tooling design or maintenance improvements.
• Conduct preventative maintenance checks and adhere to Standard Work procedures for tooling repair and assembly.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe Tool Room environment, adhering to 5S and safety protocols, especially when operating grinding and cutting machinery.
• Handle and store precision tools and components properly to prevent damage.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Proficiency in operating manual Tool Room machinery, including surface grinders, lathes, milling machines, and specialized lapping/polishing equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret complex blueprints and technical assembly drawings.
• Experience using precision measurement tools (calipers, micrometers).
• Must obtain a forklift operator certification (internal).
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods (up to 12 hours).
• Willingness to work rotating shifts in a 24/7/365 continuous manufacturing environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Technical degree or equivalent experience (4+ years in a technical manufacturing environment).
• Prior experience in metal forming, packaging, or high-volume consumer goods (FMCG).
• 2–3 years of experience in a high-volume manufacturing environment, ideally in the aluminum can industry.
• 3+ years of hands-on experience as a Tool & Die Maker, Machinist, or Precision Tooling Technician, preferably in metal forming, packaging, or can manufacturing.
• Strong knowledge of tooling materials, heat treatments, coatings, and their applications in high-volume production.

Skills

• Understanding of manufacturing processes and engineering documentation (e.g., technical manuals, 2D drawings, P&IDs, schematics).
• Experience with new product introduction, design changes, and process validation.
• Familiarity with BOMs, manufacturability, process design, and cost-reduction methodologies.
• Ability to identify critical process parameters and apply statistics to process measurement and control.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to maintain accurate, auditable records.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work on multiple projects with tight deadlines and take ownership with minimal direction.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, OneNote, PowerPoint, Visio), Google Workspace, and data management systems.
• Ability to train others and develop manufacturing documentation.

Schedule

This position requires 12-hour rotating shifts (4 days on, 4 days off), including night shifts. Flexibility is required to meet operational demands, which may include long days, evenings, weekends, holidays, and overtime. Regular and predictable attendance is essential.

Work Environment

• Primarily works in a warehouse/manufacturing facility with daily contact with other departmental personnel.
• Exposure to all weather conditions, extreme temperatures, chemicals, fumes, dust, and electrical/mechanical hazards.
• Frequent sitting, standing, walking, bending, and occasional lifting (up to 50 lbs).
• Requires climbing stairs/ladders, manual dexterity, and repetitive use of tools/machinery.
• Mandatory use of safety equipment (earplugs, goggles, steel-toed shoes).