Sr. Machinist

Position Overview

The Senior Machinist is responsible for producing precision components using CNC vertical machining centers, manual milling machines, press brakes, and plasma cutting systems. This role requires advanced machining experience, strong blueprint and GD&T interpretation skills, and the ability to troubleshoot equipment, tooling, and production issues.

CNC and Manual Machining Responsibilities

• Set up, program, operate and troubleshoot CNC vertical machining centers and manual milling machines
• Use conversational programming or G-code to produce components according to engineering drawings and specified tolerances
• Select appropriate tooling, speeds, feeds and fixturing for each application
• Machine steel, aluminum, stainless steel, titanium and other metal alloys
• Interpret engineering drawings, work orders, traveler packages and GD&T requirements
• Perform first-article inspections and in-process dimensional checks
• Use calipers, micrometers, coordinate measuring machines, height gauges and bore gauges to verify part dimensions
• Identify and correct machining issues that could affect quality or production schedules

Press Brake Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC and manual press brakes
• Form sheet metal and plate components according to specified bend sequences, angles and tolerances
• Select the appropriate punches, dies and tooling for each job
• Program bending sequences and account for springback and material allowances
• Perform first-piece and in-process inspections
• Verify dimensional compliance on formed components
• Maintain press brake tooling and die inventories
• Inspect tooling for wear and report damaged or deficient equipment

Plasma Cutting Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC plasma cutting tables and handheld plasma cutting systems
• Cut ferrous and non-ferrous materials according to engineering specifications
• Load and nest cutting programs
• Adjust amperage, standoff height and feed rates to improve cut quality
• Minimize the heat-affected zone during cutting operations
• Inspect cut parts for dimensional accuracy and edge quality
• Verify that completed parts conform to drawing requirements
• Perform routine plasma cutting equipment maintenance
• Replace consumables, including tips, electrodes and shields
• Maintain water tables and related equipment

Quality and Documentation Responsibilities

• Complete production travelers, inspection records and non-conformance reports
• Maintain documentation according to the established quality management system
• Participate in first-article inspections, in-process audits and corrective action activities
• Follow applicable customer specifications and requirements
• Maintain compliance with relevant quality and regulatory standards
• Communicate with Engineering, Quality and Production Planning to resolve technical issues
• Aid in the evaluation and disposition of non-conforming materials

Literature and Mentorship Responsibilities

• Provide on-the-job training to apprentices, machinists and setup operators
• Offer technical guidance on machining, forming and cutting processes
• Support workload planning and job sequencing
• Help the production team meet quality and on-time delivery goals
• Promote consistent machining and inspection practices
• Mentor less experienced employees and support their technical development

Safety and Housekeeping Responsibilities

• Follow all company safety policies, OSHA regulations and PPE requirements
• Maintain the work area according to 5S standards
• Support shop organization and continuous improvement activities
• Identify and report unsafe conditions
• Report near-misses, equipment malfunctions and safety concerns immediately
• Maintain a clean and organized production environment