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Department: Manufacturing / Machining
Reports To: Production Supervisor / Plant Manager
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Position Summary
The Horizontal Mill Machinist is responsible for setting up and operating CNC horizontal machining centers to produce complex, precision-machined components in accordance with engineering drawings, customer specifications, and quality requirements.
This position requires strong machining fundamentals, independent setup capabilities, and the ability to consistently produce high-quality components within tight tolerances. The ideal candidate is mechanically skilled, quality-focused, and comfortable working in a high-mix precision manufacturing environment supporting aerospace, medical, and other highly engineered applications.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Set up and operate CNC horizontal machining centers to manufacture precision components.
Perform independent machine setups, including tooling, fixtures, workholding, offsets, and part alignment.
Read and interpret complex engineering drawings, specifications, GD&T, and work instructions.
Load, verify, and make appropriate adjustments to CNC programs.
Select appropriate cutting tools, speeds, feeds, and machining parameters.
Establish work offsets and verify part location using indicators, probes, and precision measuring equipment.
Perform first-piece and in-process inspections using micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, height gauges, indicators, and other inspection equipment.
Maintain required dimensional and geometric tolerances throughout production.
Monitor tool wear and make necessary offsets, adjustments, or tool changes.
Troubleshoot machining, tooling, setup, and dimensional issues.
Identify opportunities to improve cycle time, tooling performance, quality, and overall machining efficiency.
Complete required production, inspection, and traceability documentation accurately.
Work collaboratively with Engineering, Quality, Programming, and Production to resolve manufacturing issues.
Perform routine machine maintenance and promptly communicate equipment concerns.
Maintain a clean and organized work area in accordance with 5S standards.
Follow all Company safety procedures and quality requirements.
Participate in continuous improvement initiatives.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Education
High school diploma or GED required.
Technical degree, machining certificate, or apprenticeship preferred.
Experience
3–5+ years of CNC machining experience preferred.
Previous CNC horizontal machining center experience strongly preferred.
Demonstrated ability to independently set up CNC machining equipment.
Experience machining complex, tight-tolerance components preferred.
Aerospace, medical device, defense, or other precision manufacturing experience is a plus.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Strong knowledge of CNC machining practices.
Ability to independently set up and operate horizontal machining centers.
Strong blueprint and engineering drawing interpretation skills.
Working knowledge of GD&T.
Knowledge of cutting tools, speeds, feeds, and machining parameters.
Proficiency with precision measuring and inspection equipment.
Understanding of fixturing, workholding, and part alignment.
Ability to perform shop math, including decimals, fractions, geometry, and basic trigonometry.
Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
Ability to maintain tight tolerances and identify potential quality issues.
Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with other departments.
Strong attention to detail, quality, and safety.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with Fanuc, Siemens, or similar CNC controls.
Experience with palletized horizontal machining centers.
Experience with probing and automated tool measurement systems.
Ability to perform basic CNC program edits and troubleshoot programs at the machine.
Experience machining stainless steel, aluminum, titanium, alloy steels, and other engineered materials.
Experience manufacturing components for aerospace and/or medical customers.
Familiarity with regulated quality systems and customer-specific documentation requirements.
Physical Requirements
Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
Frequently bend, reach, stoop, and perform repetitive movements.
Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds with or without reasonable accommodation.
Ability to safely work around CNC machinery, cutting tools, coolant, material-handling equipment, and other manufacturing equipment.
Ability to wear required PPE.
Work Environment
This position operates in a precision manufacturing environment and routinely works around CNC machinery, cutting tools, metal chips, coolant, forklifts, and other industrial equipment. Employees are expected to maintain a strong commitment to safety, quality, productivity, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
Core Competencies
Safety | Quality | Technical Expertise | Accountability | Problem Solving | Teamwork | Attention to Detail | Continuous Improvement
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