Machinist II

Description

Job Summary: The Machinist II is responsible for independently setting up, operating, troubleshooting, and optimizing CNC machining processes used to produce precision components. This role performs complex setups, supports process improvements, and ensures parts consistently meet engineering specifications, quality requirements, and production schedules. The Machinist II serves as a technical resource within the machine shop by assisting with problem-solving, mentoring less experienced machinists, and contributing to continuous improvement initiatives while maintaining a safe and organized work environment. 

Responsibilities:

• Independently set up and operate CNC machines (lathe, mill, multi-axis as applicable).
• Configure machine software, tooling, fixtures, and machine parameters for production runs. 
• Select, measure, install, and verify appropriate tooling and attachments. 
• Perform first-piece inspections and production verification activities. 
• Monitor machining operations and make adjustments to maintain quality and efficiency. 
• Run existing programs and perform moderate program edits to optimize performance. 
• Troubleshoot machining, tooling, and quality issues with minimal supervision.
• Support prototype, development, and low-volume production work as assigned. 
• Work with common and exotic materials while maintaining dimensional accuracy and surface finish requirements. 
• Inspect finished products using precision measurement equipment.
• Perform detailed inspections using micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, depth gauges, indicators, and other metrology tools. 
• Read and interpret blueprints, GD&T requirements, engineering drawings, and work instructions. 
• Verify parts meet all dimensional and quality requirements.
• Document production, inspection, and quality results in required systems and logs. 
• Identify root causes of nonconforming parts and assist and corrective actions. 
• Calculate speeds, feeds, tooling requirements, and machining parameters. 
• Recommend improvements to machining methods, tooling, fixturing, and workflows. 
• Assist engineering and manufacturing teams with process validation and optimization activities. 
• Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on quality, efficiency, and cost reduction. 
• Escalate complex technical issues and provide recommended solutions. 
• Assist in developing setup documentation and machining best practices.
• Maintain shop cleanliness, organization, and 5S standards. 
• Perform routine preventative maintenance and basic machine troubleshooting. 
• Follow all safety procedures. PPE requirements, and company policies.
• Support production schedules and delivery commitments. 
• Assist in training and mentoring Machinist I employees. 

Requirements

Education & Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent required. 
• Technical certification in machining, manufacturing technology, or a related field preferred. 
• 5+ years of experience operating and setting up CNC machines, lathes, and mills. 
• Experience performing complex machine setups and troubleshooting machining issues. 
• Experience working with tight-tolerance precision components. 
• Experience with multi-axis machining preferred. 

Skills & Abilities:

• Strong ability to read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and GD&T requirements. 
• Proficiency with micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, depth gauges, indicators, and other precision inspection tools. 
• Strong understanding of CNC Machine setup, tooling selection, and machining processes. 
• Ability to calculate speeds, feeds, tool offsets, and machining parameters. 
• Familiarity with work holding devices, fixtures, clamps, and setup optimization techniques. 
• Strong machine shop math skills.
• Ability to troubleshoot machining and quality issues independently.
• Understanding of lean manufacturing and continuous improvement principles. 
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality. 
• Effective communication and teamwork skills. 
• Ability to prioritize work and manage multiple production priorities. 

Work Environment:

• Lift up to 80 pounds occasionally, with or without assistance. 
• Prolonged standing, walking, and repetitive motions throughout the shift. 
• Frequent use of precision measurement tools and manufacturing equipment. 
• Regular keyboard and computer use for machine controls and documentation. 
• Clear verbal and written communication required. 
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, specifications, and production documents. 
• Manage detailed work across multiple concurrent production orders.
• Exposure to noise, moving machinery, metal chips, cutting fluids, and varying shop temperatures. 
• Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE).