Machinist I

About the role

The Machinist 1 position is an on-site, overtime-eligible role responsible for operating and setting up lathes and VMC machines to manufacture high-precision parts. This position requires knowledge of GD&T, experience with precision measuring equipment, and a strong understanding of safety, quality, and continuous improvement in a manufacturing environment. In addition to machining responsibilities, the Machinist 1 plays an active role in equipment maintenance, including preventative maintenance, troubleshooting, and supporting the overall reliability and performance of shop equipment.

Responsibilities

• Operation and set up of Lathe and VMC equipment.
• Preparation and manufacture of high-precision parts, including machine setup, operation, part inspection, and blueprint reading.
• Perform machine tool setup and tool selection, including understanding workholding devices and conducting first-piece inspections.
• Adapt cutting cycles and machining processes to accommodate material irregularities and optimize machining performance.
• Apply GD&T principles, including concentricity, roundness, parallelism, and other print specifications.
• Select and utilize precision measuring equipment, including OD/ID micrometers, calipers, height gauges, and bore gauges.
• Utilize proper tooling selection and changes while understanding material characteristics, cutting fluids, and tooling materials.
• Perform routine preventative maintenance on machine tools and related equipment to ensure safe and efficient operation.
• Assist with diagnosing, troubleshooting, and resolving machine and equipment issues to minimize downtime.
• Document maintenance activities and communicate equipment concerns to supervisors and maintenance personnel as needed.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives related to equipment reliability, shop efficiency, and process performance.
• Maintain compliance with all safety, quality, and housekeeping standards within the manufacturing environment.
• Experience with metal fabrication, quality control, and strong mechanical aptitude is a plus.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Good oral and written communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills.
• High school diploma required; trade school or technical college experience preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of machining, manufacturing, maintenance, or related industrial experience.
• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude and the ability to perform basic equipment troubleshooting and preventative maintenance activities.
• Working knowledge of machine tool maintenance practices is preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods standing and performing repetitive tasks.
• Must be able to lift up to 70 pounds at a time.
• Must have manual dexterity in order to assemble products or machines as directed.
• Must have excellent hand-eye coordination.
• Ability to differentiate between colored wires, tabs, and electronic components.
• Must wear gloves and ear protection.