Manual Machinist

Job Description

Job Description

Continental Hydraulics, located in Shakopee, Minnesota, has been a trusted leader in hydraulic engineering for over 60 years. We design and manufacture high-performance industrial and mobile hydraulic valves, pumps, power units, and are supported by a knowledgeable, customer-focused team. Our commitment to innovation, quality, and engineering excellence enables us to deliver reliable hydraulic solutions that help customers improve productivity, efficiency, and performance. At Continental Hydraulics, we're solving today's challenges while engineering the solutions of tomorrow—and we're looking for talented individuals to join us on that journey.

If you're looking to join a company with a strong legacy, a collaborative culture, and a passion for innovation, we'd love to have you on our team.

Join our dynamic manufacturing team as a Machinists I, II and III to become a vital contributor to precision operations. This position reports to the Manufacturing Manager and will interact on a regular basis with other machinists and management and works cooperatively with other organization staff. The Machinist is responsible for setting up and operating manual machine tools, with primary responsibility for surface, cylindrical, and part grinding to produce high-quality precision components. This position requires strong blueprint reading skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to maintaining tight tolerances and exceptional workmanship.

Essential Responsibilities

·       Set up and operate manual grinding equipment, including lapping machines, Blanchard grinders, and ID/OD cylindrical grinders.

·       Perform precision grinding operations while maintaining close tolerances and superior surface finishes.

·       Operate manual machine tools such as lathes, milling machines, drill presses, and saws as needed.

·       Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and work instructions.

·       Select and dress grinding wheels based on material, finish, and tolerance requirements.

·       Measure finished parts using precision inspection equipment including micrometers, calipers, dial indicators, height gauges, and gauge blocks.

·       Inspect parts throughout the machining process to ensure compliance with specifications.

·       Maintain dimensional accuracy and document inspection results as required.

·       Troubleshoot machining and grinding issues and make necessary machine adjustments.

·       Perform routine machine maintenance, cleaning, lubrication, and preventative care.

·       Follow all company safety procedures and maintain a clean, organized work area.

·       Collaborate with engineering, quality, and production personnel to meet customer requirements and production schedules.

Qualifications

·       Strong knowledge of manual surface grinding and cylindrical grinding processes.

·       Ability to hold tight tolerances (±0.0005" or better, depending on application).

·       Proficient in reading blueprints and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T).

·       Experience using precision measuring instruments and inspection equipment.

·       Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.

·       Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

·       Excellent attention to detail and commitment to quality.

Education and Experience

·       3–5 years of experience as a manual machinist with grinding experience preferred.

·       An Associate of Arts or Technical degree is preferred.

·       Continental is willing to train mechanically inclined candidates with less experience. 

·       High School diploma or GED required.

Language Skills

·       Clear and concise written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills that produce desired results.

·       Current working experience with single position milling fixtures and stand drill jigs

·       Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from internal and external customers which includes program staff, managers, clients, regulatory agencies, and vendors.

·       Capable of reading and interpreting information, such as reports, general correspondence, and the ability to share with others as needed.

·       Ability to use a personal computer and standard business and other work-related software with minimal instruction.

Mathematical Ability

·       Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide into all units of measure, using whole numbers, fractions and decimals.

·       Review program specifications or blueprints to determine and set machine operations and sequencing, finished workpiece dimensions, or numerical control sequences.

Mental Essential Functions and Reasoning Ability

·       Intermediate analytical, research, deductive reasoning, and decision-making abilities.

·       Ability to work and prioritize independently with the capacity to collaborate with others.

·       Strong time and organizational abilities with the ability to seek assistance in a professional manner.

·       Manage multiple projects simultaneously with minimal supervision while maintaining attention to detail.

·       Capable of demonstrating an understanding of and being sensitive to serving a culturally diverse population.

·       Demonstrated ability to learn and apply newly acquired skills, knowledge, and feedback.

·       Ability to maintain confidentiality and comply with professional ethics and standards.

Physical Demands

·       Regularly required to stand, walk, sit, bend, kneel, crouch, climb stairs and ladders, reach, and perform repetitive movements while operating computers, electronic devices, and a variety of hand and power tools.

·       Must be able to lift, carry, and move materials, tools, equipment, and boxes weighing up to 50 pounds occasionally and perform physical tasks requiring moderate exertion.

·       Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with varying temperatures and wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

·       Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills with the ability to effectively present information, respond to inquiries, and build productive relationships with internal and external customers.

·       Current working experience with single-position milling fixtures and stand drill jigs.

·       Ability to read, interpret, and communicate technical documents, including blueprints, program specifications, reports, and machine operation requirements to determine machining sequences and dimensions.

·       Mathematical proficiency using whole numbers, fractions, decimals, and various units of measure.

·       Strong analytical, problem-solving, research, decision-making, active listening, and customer service skills.

·       Ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities, work independently with minimal supervision, collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, and maintain exceptional attention to detail.

·       Excellent organizational and time management skills, with the judgment to seek guidance when appropriate.

·       Demonstrated ability to learn, apply, and adapt to new skills, processes, technologies, and feedback.

·       Ability to maintain confidentiality while adhering to professional ethics, company policies, and applicable standards.

·       Demonstrated ability to work respectfully and effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

·       Able to successfully pass a background check and drug screen

Technical Skills

·       Ability to use a personal computer and standard business and other work-related software with minimal instruction.

Physical Demands

·       Regularly required to stand, walk, sit, bend, kneel, crouch, reach, climb stairs and ladders, and perform other physical activities associated with a manufacturing environment, including standing for extended periods.

·       Frequently use hands and fingers to write, operate computers and electronic devices, and safely use a variety of hand and power tools.

·       Regularly lift and carry up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds, including boxes, tools, equipment, and materials.

·       Must be able to wear all required personal protective equipment (PPE).

·       Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with varying temperatures, including hot conditions in the summer and cold conditions in the winter.

·       Reasonable accommodation(s) will be provided in accordance with applicable laws to enable qualified individuals to perform the essential functions of the position.

Compensation and Benefits

• This is a full-time position with an expected hourly wage of $30.00 to $33.00; depending on qualifications and experience.
• Medical, dental, vision, STD/LTD, company sponsored life insurance and 401k with employer contribution.
• Accidental, Critical Illness, Long-Term Care, Legal and Pet Insurance.
• Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays.
• Tuition reimbursement.

Continental Hydraulics is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.