Manual Machinist
qualdoc · Richmond, VA · onsite
Key Responsibilities:
- Plan machining operations by reviewing work orders, blueprints, engineering plans, materials, specifications, orthographic drawings, reference planes, surface locations, and machining parameters.
- Interpret geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) requirements.
- Program mills and lathes by entering instructions, establishing zero and reference points, setting tool registers, offsets, and compensation, configuring conditional switches, calculating machining requirements using basic math, geometry, and trigonometry, and proving part programs.
- Set up mills and lathes by installing and adjusting three-jaw and four-jaw chucks, tools, attachments, collets, bushings, cams, gears, stops, and stock pushers.
- Indicate vises and tram machine heads as needed.
- Load stock into feed mechanisms by lifting materials into position.
- Verify machine settings by measuring positions, first-run parts, and sample workpieces in accordance with applicable international standards.
- Maintain machining specifications while performing drilling, grooving, cutting, turning, facing, knurling, and thread-chasing operations.
- Take accurate measurements, detect malfunctions, troubleshoot machining processes, adjust or reprogram controls, and sharpen or replace worn tools.
- Follow quality assurance procedures and processes to ensure finished parts meet required specifications.
- Maintain safe operations by following established safety procedures and regulations.
- Perform preventive maintenance on equipment according to manufacturer instructions, troubleshoot malfunctions, and coordinate repairs when necessary.
- Maintain continuity between shifts by documenting and communicating completed work, irregularities, and outstanding needs.
- Keep technical knowledge current by participating in training and educational opportunities and reading technical publications.
- Take ownership of assigned responsibilities, support organizational goals, and identify opportunities to improve work processes and add value.
Qualifications & Skills:
- CNC certification required.
- CNC programming experience is a plus.
- Strong manufacturing background.
- Hands-on machining experience, particularly with manual mills and lathes.
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and technical specifications.
- Knowledge of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T).
- Proficiency in machine setup, tooling selection, measurement, and machining adjustments.
- Understanding of controls, instrumentation, and tooling.
- Strong conceptual and problem-solving skills.
- Process improvement skills.
- Effective verbal communication skills.
- Functional and technical proficiency.
- Strong attention to detail and sound judgment.
- Ability to work independently and maintain quality and safety standards.
Work Environment & Physical Requirements:
- Work takes place in a typical manufacturing facility, approximately 95% indoors and 5% outdoors.
- The facility is heated during winter but is not air-conditioned during summer.
- Must be able to stand on concrete floors for a minimum of eight hours.
- Must be able to kneel, squat, bend over, and stand for extended periods as required to perform assigned tasks.
- The work environment can occasionally be loud, particularly in areas where grinding or machine testing occurs. Earplugs are provided when noise protection is needed.
Required Tools & Equipment:
- Box-end, open-end, and socket wrench sets.
- Allen wrench set.
- Screwdriver set.
- Tap handles.
- Pliers.
- Combination square.
- 9-inch level.
- Tape measure.
- Both English and metric tool sets are recommended. A lockable toolbox is also recommended.
Required Safety Attire:
- Safety glasses.
- Steel-toed safety shoes.
- Long pants.
- A shirt with sleeves, at least short-sleeved.