Machine Operator

Tool Grinder / CNC Machine Operator

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.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Essential Skills

• 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.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• 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.

Why Work Here?

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.

Work Environment

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.

Job Type & Location

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

Pay and Benefits

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)

Workplace Type

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

Application Deadline

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