Machine Operator

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Tool Grinder / CNC Machine Operator Job Description

The Tool Grinder / CNC Machine Operator sets up, operates, and maintains grinding and CNC equipment to produce tooling that meets manufacturer and customer specifications while supporting cost-effective production. This role requires a strong understanding of each customer’s job application to ensure tools are manufactured correctly, safely, and in compliance with established quality standards and ISO requirements.

• Set up grinding and CNC machines for each job application, including preparing fixtures, tooling, and workpieces according to specifications.
• Grind tooling to manufacturer and customer specifications, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and adherence to tool prints and requirements.
• Sort and organize tooling prior to and after production runs to maintain an efficient workflow and prevent mix-ups.
• Prepare and set up jobs to be run for each application, including reviewing blueprints, job travelers, and tool specifications.
• Clean and inspect machinery and tools regularly to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient operation.
• Inspect jobs after final operation using appropriate measuring tools to verify dimensions, surface finish, and overall quality.
• Identify and respond to commonly occurring problems and situations using established standards, procedures, and precedents.
• Visually inspect tools for bad grinds, chips, or defects using eye loupes and magnifiers, and take corrective action as needed.
• Apply knowledge of materials, tooling types, and machine capabilities (including Tru-Tech, cylindrical grinding machines, and manual grinding machines) to select appropriate setups and processes.
• Use blueprints and technical drawings to determine dimensions, tolerances, and required operations for each job.
• Use micrometers, verniers, radius gauges, and other precision measuring instruments to perform in-process and final inspections.
• Select and apply the correct grinding wheel for each job based on material, geometry, and finish requirements.
• Apply math skills and tool geometry principles to set up and adjust machines for precise machining and grinding operations.
• Perform all tasks in accordance with ISO standards and internal quality procedures.
• Promote and support a strong safety culture by following safety practices and encouraging safe work habits among coworkers.
• Demonstrate and reinforce core behaviors that support a positive, collaborative, and professional work environment.

• Hands-on experience with tool grinding and CNC machine operation in a machine shop or similar production environment.
• Proficiency in setting up and operating grinders, including Tru-Tech and cylindrical grinding machines, as well as manual grinding machines.
• Knowledge of material and tooling types and how they affect grinding and machining processes.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings.
• Ability to recognize bad grinds, chips, and defects in tools using eye loupes and magnifiers.
• Proficiency in using precision measuring instruments such as micrometers, vernier calipers, and radius gauges.
• Understanding of grinding wheel selection and the ability to choose the correct wheel for each job.
• Competence in applying math skills and tool geometry to setup and machining operations.
• Experience with machining operations including lathe, mill, and general machine operation.
• Ability to follow ISO procedures and work within a documented quality system.
• Capability to lift and move up to 50 pounds regularly and perform physical tasks such as standing, walking, reaching, and handling tools and equipment.
• Ability to use computers and digital tools to access blueprints and job information.

• Experience working in a production machine shop environment with grinding, machining, and inspection responsibilities.
• Familiarity with CNC machine operation, including setup and running of CNC grinding or machining equipment.
• Comfort using digital devices such as tablets or iPads to access blueprints and work instructions.
• Strong attention to detail and quality focus in all machining and grinding operations.
• Effective problem-solving skills when addressing common machine, tooling, or quality issues.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a small team environment while maintaining a professional demeanor.

You will join a small, close-knit team where your contributions are visible and valued, and where collaboration and mutual support are part of daily work life. You will use modern tools, including a dedicated iPad for accessing blueprints and job information, helping you work efficiently and stay organized. The organization supports a friendly, community-oriented culture, highlighted by monthly family-style lunches that encourage connection and camaraderie. You will also gain exposure to high-profile, aerospace-related work, giving you the opportunity to build skills and experience on challenging and meaningful projects.

The role is based in a climate-controlled machine shop with generally good working conditions. The environment may be slightly dirty at times or involve occasional exposure to elements typical of a machine shop. Work is typically performed during traditional working hours, with regular daytime hours Monday through Friday, although the schedule may occasionally change to include some weekends or evenings based on production needs. The position involves regular standing, walking, sitting, and frequent use of hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, and controls, as well as reaching with hands and arms. Employees use computers, iPads, and other equipment to access blueprints and job-related information. The role requires frequent lifting and moving of up to 50 pounds and the ability to maintain close vision and clear focus for detailed inspection and machining tasks. Dress is consistent with a professional machine shop environment, suitable for operating machinery and handling tools safely.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of O Fallon, MO.

The pay range for this position is $18.00 - $22.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in O Fallon,MO.

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 21, 2026.

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.

Company Description

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.