Machinist

Summary

A machinist is a skilled worker who operates machinery to manufacture, repair, and produce precision metal parts and components. The primary responsibilities for this position include:

Machine Setup: Machinists are responsible for setting up and configuring various machine tools, such as lathes, milling machines, grinders, and CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines, according to blueprints, engineering drawings, and specifications.

Material Selection: They choose the appropriate materials, such as metal, plastic, or composite materials, based on project requirements and the properties of the material needed for the part.

Reading Blueprints: Machinists read and interpret engineering drawings and blueprints to understand the dimensions, tolerances, and other specifications required for the part they are manufacturing.

Machining Operations: Machinists perform precision machining operations, such as turning, milling, drilling, grinding, and cutting, to shape, cut, and finish workpieces to the required specifications.

Tool Selection: They select the appropriate cutting tools, tool holders, and fixtures for each machining operation, ensuring that they are in good condition and properly maintained.

Quality Control: Machinists use precision measuring instruments, such as micrometers, calipers, gauges, and optical comparators, to check the accuracy and quality of the finished parts. They make necessary adjustments to meet specifications.

Maintenance: Maintaining and cleaning machines is a crucial part of a machinist's job. Regular maintenance ensures that machines operate efficiently and safely.

Safety: Machinists follow strict safety procedures to prevent accidents and injuries in the workplace. They wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and adhere to safety guidelines.

Problem Solving: They troubleshoot and solve problems related to machining processes, tools, and equipment to maintain production efficiency.

Programming (for CNC Machinists): CNC machinists may be responsible for programming CNC machines using software and inputting the necessary commands to create complex parts automatically.

Documentation: Keeping records of machining processes, production data, and inspection results is often required to maintain quality control and traceability.

Collaboration: Machinists often collaborate with engineers, designers, and quality control personnel to ensure that parts meet design specifications and quality standards.

Continuous Learning: Staying updated with advancements in machining technology, tools, and techniques is essential to improve efficiency and maintain a high level of expertise.

Essential Functions/Duties

1. Observe, follow and maintain a safe working environment.
2. Set up controls and adjust settings for industrial/manufacturing machines  
3. Observe machine operation for machine malfunction and defects.  
4. Perform safety checks to ensure safety devices are on and in working order (guarding and all safety equipment).        
5. Perform quality checks and document (where applicable), using simple gages, precision measuring devices and visual inspection.  
6. Perform daily maintenance on machines and auxiliary equipment.  
7. Clean and maintain supplies, tools, equipment, and storage areas in order to ensure compliance with safety regulations.        

Competencies

1. Ability to maintain positive relations within all levels of the organization.
2. Ability to communicate, present facts and provide recommendations effectively in oral and written form.
3. Strong understanding of mathematics, precision measurement and the ability to work with various machine tools.
4. Strong organizational skills that reflect the ability to perform and prioritize multiple tasks seamlessly with excellent attention to detail.
5. Ability to work effectively with or without direct supervision as well as independently or in a team environment.
6. Ability to maintain a high degree of professionalism while under pressure and in the face of adversity
7. Ability to prioritize and work with accuracy under stress.

Physical/Cognitive Demands

This is largely a physically active role including walking long distances (over uneven surfaces) to/within our production facility, lifting 50lbs or more, and standing for long periods. Position also requires bending, stooping, squatting or standing as necessary. Cognitive abilities required include deductive reasoning, information ordering, oral comprehension, oral expression, problem sensitivity, written comprehension, and written expression.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

This is a full-time position. Hours are Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Evening and weekend work will be required as job duties demand.

Required Education and Experience

1. HS Diploma/GED
2. 2 years’ experience operating large machinery

Preferred Education and Experience

1. Bilingual English/Spanish language skills is a plus

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.