Machinist

MachinistThe machinist sets up, operates, and maintains manual and CNC machines, including lathes, mills, grinders, and drill presses, to produce precision metal components. This role interprets blueprints, engineering drawings, GD&T, and work orders to manufacture parts to exact specifications, selects appropriate tooling and workholding, and programs or adjusts CNC machines to maintain tight tolerances. The machinist performs a variety of manual machining operations, monitors machine performance, inspects finished parts with precision instruments, and contributes to continuous improvement of manufacturing processes while maintaining a safe and organized work environment.ResponsibilitiesSet up, operate, and maintain manual and CNC machines, including lathes, mills, grinders, and drill presses, to produce precision metal components.Interpret and work from blueprints, engineering drawings, GD&T, and work orders to manufacture parts to exact specifications.Select and install cutting tools, fixtures, and workholding based on material type and machining requirements.Program, edit, or load CNC programs (G-code/M-code) and make offsets or adjustments to maintain required tolerances.Perform manual machining operations such as turning, milling, boring, threading, drilling, and tapping.Monitor machine performance, adjust feeds and speeds, and troubleshoot machining issues to optimize part quality and cycle times.Inspect finished parts using precision measuring instruments such as calipers, micrometers, gauges, and indicators to ensure adherence to specifications and tolerances.Perform first article, in-process, and final inspections, and document inspection results as required.Maintain equipment through preventative maintenance, cleaning, and basic repairs to ensure optimal machine performance.Collaborate with engineering, quality, and production teams to resolve machining issues and improve manufacturing processes.Identify and recommend opportunities for process improvements, tooling changes, and setup time reductions.Follow all safety procedures, personal protective equipment requirements, and shop protocols to maintain a safe work environment.Maintain a clean and organized work area in accordance with 5S and lean manufacturing standards.Train or assist junior machinists and machine operators as needed, sharing best practices and supporting skill development.Essential SkillsExperience with both manual machining and CNC machining, including mills and lathes, with particular strength in manual lathe operation.Strong understanding of blueprint reading and GD&T to produce parts to exact specifications.Working knowledge of CNC programming and editing, including G-code and M-code.Proficiency with precision measuring tools such as calipers, micrometers, gauges, and indicators, and with quality inspection techniques.Solid understanding of cutting tools, speeds and feeds, and material properties relevant to metal machining.Mechanical aptitude with strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills to address machining and equipment issues.Ability to hold tight tolerances, typically ±0.001 inch or better depending on the application.Prior experience in a metal manufacturing or machine shop environment.Additional Skills & QualificationsStrong knowledge of tooling selection, feeds and speeds, and machining processes for both manual and CNC equipment.Proficiency in reading complex blueprints and applying GD&T to ensure dimensional accuracy and fit.Experience inspecting parts using precision measurement tools to consistently maintain tight tolerances.Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot machining issues, perform basic maintenance, and optimize processes for quality and efficiency.Familiarity with changeovers and setup reduction techniques to improve productivity.Comfort working with both manual machines and CNC machines in a production environment.Experience collaborating with engineering, quality, and production teams to improve manufacturing outcomes.You will join a smaller, close-knit team where your contributions are visible and valued, and where there is a clear structure for growth and pay increases. The company fosters a supportive environment that encourages skill development, continuous improvement, and long-term career progression.Work EnvironmentThe role is based in a partially climate-controlled facility. The office, laser room, and CNC room are climate controlled, providing a comfortable environment for programming, planning, and CNC operations. The manual machining area is not climate controlled, offering a traditional shop setting for hands-on work with manual machines. You will work around a variety of metal manufacturing equipment and precision tools in a production-oriented environment that emphasizes safety, organization, and adherence to shop protocols.Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of Charlotte, NC.Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $25.00 - $32.00/hr.Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.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)Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Charlotte, NC.Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Sep 1, 2026.