CNC Programmer / Toolmaker

Job Summary

Join our manufacturing team as a Machinist, where your expertise in operating various precision machines such as saws, lathes, drills, milling machines, and grinders will play a vital role in producing and maintaining high-quality tooling and equipment. This full-time role involves both hands-on machining and occasional plant floor tasks, offering a dynamic and varied work environment where your technical skills and attention to detail will directly contribute to smooth production operations.

Primary Duties

As a key member of our production team, you will:

• Set up and operate various manufacturing machinery including saws, lathes, drills, milling machines, and grinders to machine new tooling and repair or rebuild existing tooling and equipment.
• Interpret technical prints and blueprints to machine parts accurately to specifications with tolerances within .001 of an inch, ensuring precise and quality outcomes.
• Utilize hand tools and precision measuring instruments such as micrometers, dial indicators, and gauges to verify the accuracy of machined components.
• Engage in moderate to heavy lifting to load raw materials into machines and assist in setting up equipment efficiently and safely.
• Conduct routine maintenance and repair tasks on plant equipment, including the installation of new tooling or components, sometimes involving climbing and the use of forklifts to access various plant areas.
• Occasionally operate welding equipment such as acetylene torches, arc welders, and MIG welders to support equipment repair and fabrication needs.
• Maintain clear and effective communication with supervisors, engineering teams, and co-workers to coordinate tasks and resolve any machining issues promptly.
• Adhere strictly to safety protocols to ensure a safe working environment for yourself and your colleagues, including the proper use of personal protective equipment and machinery safeguards.
• Document work progress accurately and report any operational discrepancies or maintenance needs to management.

Success in this role requires high productivity balanced with meticulous accuracy, enabling the consistent delivery of well-crafted parts and tooling that meet rigorous quality standards.

Qualifications

To thrive in this position, candidates should possess:

• Exceptional hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity to effectively operate both automated and manual machining equipment.
• Strong ability to read and interpret detailed technical drawings, blueprints, and specification sheets accurately.
• Proficiency in using precision measuring instruments including micrometers, dial indicators, and various gauges to ensure components meet specified tolerances.
• Good communication skills to facilitate collaboration with supervisors, engineers, and team members, ensuring clear understanding of job requirements and safety procedures.
• Excellent visual acuity to accurately set up and monitor machine operations and to identify any deviations or quality concerns during the manufacturing process.
• A commitment to workplace safety, with the ability to recognize and mitigate potential hazards in a manufacturing environment involving heavy machinery and equipment handling.
• Flexibility and physical capability to perform occasional moderate to heavy lifting, climbing, and operating plant equipment such as forklifts.
• Experience or willingness to safely operate welding equipment such as acetylene torches, arc welders, and MIG welders is a strong advantage.

We encourage applicants who bring a proactive mindset towards continuous learning and quality improvement, contributing positively to team performance and operational excellence.

Education / Experience

A high school diploma or equivalent is preferred. Practical experience as a machinist or in a related manufacturing role is highly valued, especially experience in operating CNC machines and manual machining equipment. Previous hands-on exposure to tooling setup, equipment maintenance, and machining to precise tolerances will facilitate success in this position. Relevant certifications or vocational training in machining, welding, or equipment operation are beneficial but not mandatory, as comprehensive on-the-job training will be provided to equip you with the skills needed to excel.