Precision Machinist Apprentice

About the Role

This is a State Certified 3-year, 6000-hour hands-on training program approved by the Mississippi Apprenticeship Program (MAP) under the DOL. The program combines work-based, hands-on experience with mandatory online classes conducted during normal business hours. Due to the significant investment by Tegra Medical and the apprentice, a letter of understanding will be signed by both parties. The apprenticeship is designed for career development and advancement, focusing on acquiring skills to operate CNC machines, including CNC Swiss-style lathes, CNC lathes, CNC milling machines, and manual machining.

Responsibilities

• Operate CNC machines, including CNC Swiss-style lathes, CNC lathes, and CNC milling machines.
• Review set-up sheets and specifications to understand machining sequences and dimensions of finished workpieces.
• Work from procedures and prescribed operation sequences to achieve parts per print and quality specifications.
• Adjust tool offsets, guide bushing tension, and monitor processes for tool conditions, burrs, and surface finishes.
• Assemble cutting tools in tool holders and position them in machine spindles or insert cutting tools in specified machine magazines.
• Ensure proper lubrication and cooling of the workpiece.
• Produce quality parts and monitor machine operations to detect malfunctions, such as worn or damaged cutting tools.
• Notify supervisors of any discrepancies.
• Perform part inspections during the machining process using measuring instruments like microscopes, optical comparators, micrometers, calipers, dial indicators, and gauges.
• Complete designated training hours in Tooling U (RI) online manufacturing training.
• Perform secondary operations as required while operating CNC machines.
• Machine materials other than metal, such as composites, plastic, and rubber.

Requirements

• Experience in a small device manufacturing environment as a CNC Machining Operator or machining background is a plus.
• Experience operating Mazak, Makino, Star, or other CNC Turning Centers and CNC equipment is desired.
• Experience in medical device manufacturing, aerospace, machinery, or metals is a plus.
• Ability to read blueprints, drawings, specifications, and quality plans.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and meet deadlines.
• Self-motivated with good manual dexterity and the ability to use measurement and inspection tools.
• Good work habits, strong workmanship, and a positive attitude.
• Flexibility to perform a variety of machining operations and other functions within manufacturing as needed.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent is preferred.
• Graduate of a vocational school in manufacturing/machining or an engineering discipline is a plus.

Physical Requirements

• Frequent repetitive work and standing.
• Occasional lifting and carrying (maximum 40 lbs.).
• Occasional sitting, walking, pushing, pulling, and reaching.
• Subject to physical hazards from moving equipment and machine parts.
• Constant use of safety glasses and full PPE.