Manual Machinist

Would you like to be part of a dedicated team where your skills make a difference every day? Do you want to work alongside motivated professionals in a supportive, growth-oriented environment? At Universal Plant Services, we offer excellent benefits and the opportunity to grow your career while being part of a strong team. Universal Plant Services in Carson, California, a leading provider of rotating equipment services, is seeking a skilled Manual Machinist to join our shop team. The qualified candidate will be responsible for operating lathes, mills, and other manual machines to support the repair and overhaul of industrial equipment. This is a full‑time, local position with no per diem or relocation offered. Summary of Position The Manual Machinist is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining a variety of manual machine tools to produce precision parts and components according to specifications. The role requires strong skills in reading blueprints, measuring accurately, and working with various materials, including metals and plastics. The machinist must ensure work is completed to exact tolerances and standards, often working independently or as part of a production team. Additional duties may include machine maintenance, troubleshoot issues, and collaborate with engineers or supervisors to improve manufacturing processes. Performs Machining Services in a variety of settings at client work sites. Essential Job Requirements Proficient in setting up and operating Vertical Turret Lathes (VTLs), Horizontal Boring Mills (HBMs), Engine Lathes, and Milling Machines. Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and technical instructions. Prior machine shop experience and balancing of rotating equipment helpful. (Petrochemical or pump shops) experience. Measure and inspect finished parts to ensure they meet specifications using micrometers, calipers, and other precision instruments. Perform routine maintenance and minor repairs on machines. Maintain a clean and safe work area following company and OSHA guidelines. Troubleshoot machining issues and recommend process improvements. Work with supervisors and engineers to ensure quality and production goals are met. Inspect finished parts and make necessary adjustments to maintain strict quality standards. Quickly diagnose and correct machining problems, ensuring minimal downtime and part defects. Must have strict adherence to all safety policies, procedures, and use of required PPE (Personal Protective Equipment). Must possess a valid driver’s license. Must live within 45 miles of Carson, California. Other duties as assigned. Required Education Requires high school diploma or equivalent, technical school or college credits preferred. Trade School Degree in an industrial related field or similar. Associate degree preferred. Experience Five (5) or more years’ experience as a manual machinist Preferred familiarity with machining large parts (over several tons). Formal machinist training or apprenticeship certification is a plus. Required Skills Must be able to set up and operate machining equipment Able to follow precise directions and procedures of the supervisor on the project. Skilled in using measuring tools such as micrometers, calipers, dial indicators, bore gauges, and height gauges to ensure work meets tight tolerances. Ability to set up workpieces, select proper tooling, adjust machine settings, and align parts accurately. Strong understanding of speeds, feeds, cutting tools, and machining methods for various materials such as steel, cast iron, and alloys. Solid math skills including geometry and trigonometry as related to machining. Ability to work independently or as part of a team, follow directions, meet deadlines, and maintain a clean and organized work environment. Ray Range: $40-$45 per hour DOE Work Schedule: Monday thru Friday with potential weekends and overtime EEO Statement Universal Plant Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship status, protected veteran status, genetic information, or physical or mental disability. Benefits offered Medical/Dental/Vision Health Savings Account Short-term disability 100% employer paid Long-term Disability 100% employer paid life insurance 401K match Paid time off Employee Assistance Program #J-18808-Ljbffr Universal Plant Services