Manual Machinist

Manual Machinist

This role focuses on producing high-quality tooling used in plastic welding machines by operating manual machining equipment and managing the process from raw material to finished product. You will work from your own station, interpret detailed blueprints and drawings, collaborate closely with designers, and ensure that each tool meets precise specifications. The position offers a mix of manual machining, mechanical assembly, and hands-on problem solving in a supportive, team-oriented environment.

Responsibilities

• Produce tooling for plastic welding machines by operating manual machining equipment such as lathes and mills.
• Review and interpret blueprints and technical drawings to determine machining requirements and tooling specifications.
• Collaborate with designers to clarify design intent and agree on the best approach to manufacturing each tool.
• Own the entire tooling process from start to finish, ensuring quality and accuracy at every step.
• Receive raw parts delivered on carts and organize them at your workstation for efficient workflow.
• Track materials throughout the process, including movement to and from different departments as needed.
• Set up and operate manual machines safely and efficiently, adjusting settings to achieve required tolerances.
• Perform heavy mechanical assembly work as needed to complete tooling or machine components.
• Inspect finished tooling for accuracy and quality, making adjustments or rework as required.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe workstation, following all shop procedures and safety guidelines.
• Communicate clearly with team members and other departments to coordinate work and resolve issues promptly.
• Support machine building and assembly tasks when required, using mechanical aptitude and hands-on skills.

Essential Skills

• At least 1 year of manual machining experience, including work with lathes or mills.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings accurately.
• At least 1 year of heavy assembly experience or equivalent hands-on mechanical experience, such as hobby mechanic work on cars.
• Proficiency in manual machine operation, including setup, adjustment, and safe operation.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and comfort working with tools, machinery, and mechanical assemblies.
• Ability to track materials and manage work from start to finish with minimal supervision.
• Effective communication skills to collaborate with designers and other departments.
• Attention to detail and commitment to producing precise, high-quality work.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with heavy mechanical assembly or machine building.
• Experience as a hobby mechanic, including performing your own car repairs beyond basic oil or tire changes (for example, completing brake work).
• Experience in machine operating, heavy assembly, or mechanical assembly environments.
• Comfort working in a shop setting with both manual machines and newer CNC equipment.
• Ability to adapt to flexible hours and occasional optional overtime.

Why Work Here?

You will join a workplace that values long-term relationships, flexibility, and a strong sense of community, where many team members have built careers spanning decades. The environment emphasizes a family-like atmosphere, offering flexible hours after the first few months so you can start early, adjust your schedule, and attend important personal events when needed. You can expect monthly cookouts or catered meals, generous paid time off starting at three weeks with PTO accruing regularly, optional overtime rather than mandatory extra hours, and 11 paid holidays. The culture focuses on work-life balance, stability, and a supportive team that appreciates skilled, hands-on professionals.

Work Environment

The role is based in an established shop that combines an older facility with a newer CNC department, providing exposure to both traditional and modern machining environments. The shop does not have air conditioning, but it is equipped with plenty of fans to help maintain airflow and comfort. You will have your own workstation and work primarily with manual machines, while also interacting with other departments as needed. Hours are flexible after the initial period, allowing early start times and schedule adjustments, with optional overtime available rather than required. The setting is practical and hands-on, suited to individuals who enjoy working with machinery and tools in a traditional shop environment.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Cokato, MN.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $50000.00 - $80000.00/yr. Comprehensive Health Insurance Dental Insurance Vision Insurance Life Insurance Short and Long Term Disability Insurance 401(k) Plan

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Cokato, MN.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 14, 2026.