CNC Mill Machinist

Job Description

Job Description

CNC Mill Machinist

About FERPA
Founded in 1990, FERPA Precision Machine, Inc. is a family-owned business with more than 35 years of precision manufacturing expertise. Known for our high-performance plastic seals and oilfield components, we have expanded into small- to medium-sized precision metal parts, with a growing focus on aerospace. We combine advanced technology with a commitment to quality, customer service, and the people who make our success possible.
Learn more about FERPA:

Position Summary
We’re looking for an experienced CNC Mill Machinist who takes pride in producing quality work. In this role, you will independently set up and operate CNC mills, perform part prove-outs, and troubleshoot machining processes to produce precision components that meet demanding specifications.

Our clean, air-conditioned facility features modern machinery and software to support your success. With a planned move to a new facility next year and additional CNC mill investments anticipated, this is an opportunity to grow with our team.

Responsibilities

• Independently set up and operate CNC milling machines, including tooling, workholding, part alignment, and work offsets.
• Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, machining specifications, and job instructions.
• Select appropriate cutting tools, fixtures, speeds, and feeds based on material properties and part requirements.
• Set and adjust tool offsets, work coordinates, and cutter compensation to maintain dimensional accuracy.
• Perform part prove-outs, verify program execution, and make necessary adjustments to existing programs at the machine.
• Perform first-piece and in-process inspections using micrometers, calipers, indicators, gauges, and other precision measuring instruments.
• Monitor machining operations and adjust cutting parameters to maintain quality, surface finish, tool life, and production efficiency.
• Troubleshoot setup, tooling, and machining issues; communicate equipment concerns requiring maintenance support.
• Complete routine operator maintenance and maintain machines in safe working condition.
• Follow quality procedures and accurately complete required inspection and production documentation.
• Collaborate with programming, quality, and production teams to resolve issues and meet deadlines.
• Follow all safety procedures when operating equipment and handling tools and materials.
• Maintain a clean, organized work area consistent with 5S and lean manufacturing practices.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; technical or vocational training in machining is preferred.
• At least five years of hands-on CNC milling experience, including independent setups, operation, part prove-outs, and troubleshooting.
• Strong working knowledge of G-code and M-code, including the ability to read, understand, and edit existing CNC programs at the machine.

Required Skills & Knowedge

• Experience operating FANUC-controlled CNC machines.
• Proficiency in reading blueprints and interpreting dimensions, tolerances, surface finish requirements, and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T).
• Proficiency with precision measuring instruments, including micrometers, calipers, indicators, and gauges.
• Strong understanding of tooling, workholding, cutting parameters, shop math, and CNC milling fundamentals.
• Ability to consistently produce parts that meet tight tolerances and specified quality requirements.
• Ability to work independently, troubleshoot problems, and communicate effectively with team members.
• Strong attention to detail, organization, and time management.

Materials Experience
Experience machining a variety of metals is required. Experience with the following materials is preferred:

• Stainless steels, including 300 series and Nitronic 60
• Precipitation-hardening stainless steels, including 15-5 and 17-4
• Aluminum bronze
• MP35N
• Inconel
• Engineering plastics

Additional Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in a job shop environment with varied parts and production quantities.
• Experience manufacturing aerospace components and working to customer-specific or applicable SAE specifications.
• Familiarity with AS9100 and ISO 9001 quality management systems.

Physical Requirements and Work Environment
The essential functions of this position require the ability to perform the following, with or without reasonable accommodation:

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods; bend, reach, and handle tooling and parts; perform close visual inspections; and lift up to 50 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation. Lifting equipment or team assistance is used for heavier or awkward loads.
• Work in a clean, air-conditioned manufacturing facility around machinery, metal chips, machining fluids, and typical shop noise while wearing required protective equipment and following safety procedures.

Export-Control Requirements
This position requires U.S. Person status, as defined by applicable law, for authorized access to technical data controlled under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). A U.S. Person includes U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, lawful permanent residents, and individuals granted refugee or asylum status in the United States.