Machine Shop Assistant

This opportunity is located within our Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense Company business, a global leader of mission-critical hardware and systems solutions including precision energetics systems and innovative explosive solutions.

Job Description

Job Title: Machine Shop Assistant

Department: Machine Shop / Manufacturing
Reports To: Machine Shop Supervisor
Location: Aerospace Manufacturing Facility

Job Summary

The Machining Assistant supports daily production activities in an aerospace machine shop. This role is responsible for assisting machinists with tooling preparation, part handling, deburring, packaging, equipment maintenance, and laser marking. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, safety-conscious, and capable of working in a regulated aerospace manufacturing environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Tooling Support

  • Assist machinists with tool preparation, presetting, cleaning, and organization
  • Help maintain tooling inventory and report worn or damaged tools
  • Ensure tooling is properly labeled, stored, and handled

• Deburring & Part Finishing

  • Perform manual deburring, edge breaking, and basic finishing per work instructions
  • Use hand tools, abrasives, and pneumatic tools safely and effectively
  • Ensure parts meet dimensional, visual, and cosmetic requirements

• Packaging & Shipping Preparation

  • Package machined parts per aerospace specifications to prevent damage or contamination
  • Apply proper identification, labeling, and documentation
  • Assist with kitting and preparation for internal or external processing

• Laser Marking

  • Operate laser marking equipment under established procedures
  • Verify part orientation, marking location, and content per drawings or customer requirements
  • Inspect marked parts for clarity, accuracy, and compliance

• Assembly

  • Performs manual/mechanized assembly operations
  • Responsible for adhering to all safety and quality requirements
  • Process specifications using hand tools, machinery, air presses, jigs and other equipment and tooling
  • Must be able to follow work instructions

• Shop Maintenance & Organization

  • Assist with machine cleaning, chip removal, and coolant maintenance
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area (5S practices)
  • Perform basic preventive maintenance tasks as directed

• Quality & Safety

  • Follow all safety rules, PPE requirements, and shop procedures
  • Comply with aerospace quality standards (AS9100, ITAR, customer requirements)
  • Report nonconforming parts, damaged equipment, or safety concerns promptly

• Additional Responsibilities

  • Support production flow and meet delivery schedules
  • Assist with other shop tasks as needed

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Ability to read and follow work instructions and shop travelers
• Basic mechanical aptitude and hand tool experience
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs and stand for extended periods
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work in a fast-paced environment
• Willingness to follow strict safety and quality requirements

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience in a machine shop or manufacturing environment
• Familiarity with aerospace parts and documentation
• Experience with deburring, laser marking, or packaging precision components
• Basic understanding of blueprints and GD&T
• Forklift or shop equipment experience (a plus)

Work Environment

• Manufacturing shop environment with exposure to machinery, noise, oils, and metal chips
• Required use of PPE including safety glasses, gloves, and hearing protection

Physical Demands

• Standing and walking for long periods
• Frequent bending, reaching, and handling of parts and tools
• Manual dexterity and good hand-eye coordination required

Compensation:

Hourly Range: $28.00 - 35.00 per hour. Salary is determined by the applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, internal equity, and alignment with market data.

Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, national origin, or veteran status.