Machinist

Machinist 1st or 2nd Shift

This 1st shift machinist role focuses on setting up and operating CNC mills and lathes, with a strong emphasis on CNC lathes. You will work in a clean, climate-controlled, low-volume environment where you machine a wide variety of parts rather than high-volume production work. The position requires the ability to perform multiple setups, make tooling changes, read and interpret blueprints, and edit programs at the machine using G&M code, while maintaining high quality standards through precise inspection.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC mills and lathes, with a primary focus on CNC lathes (including Doosan and Haas equipment).
• Perform multiple part setups and tooling changes throughout the day to support low-volume, varied work.
• Read and interpret blueprints, inspection check sheets, and written instructions to produce parts to specification.
• Use inspection gauges such as calipers, micrometers, and height gauges to perform in-process and final quality checks on parts.
• Monitor machine performance and make adjustments to offsets, tools, and programs as needed to maintain dimensional accuracy and surface finish.
• Edit CNC programs at the machine using G&M code to refine operations, correct issues, and optimize machining processes.
• Maintain a clean, organized work area and follow established shop procedures and safety guidelines.
• Collaborate with supervisors and teammates to resolve machining challenges and ensure jobs are completed on time and to quality standards.

Essential Skills

• 3+ years of experience setting up and running CNC mills and lathes in a machining environment.
• Hands-on CNC setup experience on both mills and lathes, including tooling selection and part fixturing.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and related technical documentation.
• Proficiency using precision measuring tools such as micrometers, calipers, and height gauges for part inspection.
• At least 2 years of experience editing CNC programs at the machine using G&M code.
• Strong understanding of CNC machining processes and the ability to make on-the-fly adjustments to maintain quality.
• Attention to detail and commitment to producing accurate, high-quality parts in a low-volume, high-variety environment.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience working with Doosan and Haas CNC machinery.
• Experience in non-production, job-shop or low-volume machining environments.
• Comfort performing frequent setups and changeovers on a wide range of parts.
• Ability to work independently while communicating effectively with team members and supervisors.
• Willingness to participate in union-based work structures and scheduling, as applicable.

Why Work Here?

Employees benefit from comprehensive health, vision, and dental coverage, along with the option to join a union that provides structured pay progression and protections. The facility has been fully updated with modern CNC equipment, creating one of the most attractive and well-equipped shops in the area. Team members receive an automatic pay increase when they transition to direct employment after 90 business days, and enjoy regular company lunches and outings that foster a friendly, laid-back culture. The organization is deeply committed to promoting from within, with leadership that has grown from the shop floor and remains highly invested in supporting people and maintaining top-tier equipment.

Work Environment

The role is based in a clean, well-lit, and highly organized shop that is climate controlled for comfort and consistency. Approximately 100 people work in the shop, creating a collaborative yet manageable environment. The standard 1st shift schedule runs Monday through Thursday from 5:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., offering long weekends under normal circumstances. Due to union work rules, weekend work is limited, and team members can sign up voluntarily for additional hours, typically on Fridays as half or full days; Saturday or Sunday work is rare and only occurs when needed. The shop features modern CNC machinery purchased in 2020 and operates with a relaxed, professional atmosphere that emphasizes safety, quality, and respect for work-life balance.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Whitewater, WI.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $24.00 - $30.00/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 Type

This is a fully onsite position in Whitewater,WI.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Oct 16, 2026.