Manual Machinist

The Manual Machinist is responsible for setting up and operating manual machines, fabricating and assembling tooling, fixtures, and custom parts according to precise specifications.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Precision Measurement: Use precision measuring tools (e.g., calipers, micrometers, gauges) to verify that finished workpieces meet strict specifications.
• Tool Maintenance & Sharpening: Regularly sharpen and replace cutting tools to maintain quality standards and prolong tool life.
• Manual Setup & Alignment: Manually set up and aligned tools, attachments, and workpieces on machines using hand tools, clamps, and measuring instruments, ensuring exact placement and positioning.
• Operational Monitoring & Adjustment: Monitor machines closely during operation, listening for unusual sounds or vibrations; manually adjust machine settings to address any issues and ensure smooth operation.
• Manual Machine Adjustment: Change feed rates, spindle speeds, and tooling to match the specific needs of each task and compensate for material differences or machine behaviors.
• Precision Cutting and Shaping: Execute precise cuts, shapes, and drilling manually, using lathes, mills, grinders, and other manual machine tools.
• Complex Calculations: Accurately calculate dimensions, angles, machine speeds, feed ratios, and cutting depths to achieve exact results.
• Tool and Fixture Fabrication: Craft, assemble, and refine custom tooling, jigs, and fixtures as required for specific projects, often from scratch.
• Manual Program Modification: Adjust manual settings to address unique challenges encountered during operations, ensuring the highest level of accuracy.
• Safety & Equipment Handling: Safely lift and position workpieces using manual techniques or hoisting equipment as required.
• Organization & Material Handling: Arrange and transport materials, tools, and fixtures efficiently to maintain a clean and organized workspace.
• Problem-Solving & Troubleshooting: Diagnose and resolve machining and tooling issues, applying technical expertise to achieve successful outcomes.
• Additional Responsibilities: Perform other machining or tool-making tasks as needed to support production and meet project requirements.

EDUCATION:

• High school diploma or GED equivalent from an accredited school required.
• Apprenticeship and/or formal training in the area of specialty preferred.

EXPERIENCE:

• At least 2 years of experience in the field or in a related area.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS OR ABILITIES:

• Language: Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions and procedure manuals. Ability to communicate orally and in writing
• Computer Skills: Minimal
• Mathematical Skills: Ability to use basic shop math.
• Reasoning Abilities: Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram or schedule form. Ability to use equipment and tools properly and safely.
• Technical Abilities: Familiar with standard concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field. Relies on limited experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals. A certain degree of creativity and latitude is required.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

While performing the duties of this job, the Team Member is regularly required to stand, walk, bend, squat, use hands to finger, handle or feel; reach with hands and arms, and talk or hear. The Team Member must occasionally lift and/or move up to 40 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.