Machinist Trainee

Wabtec Now Hiring for a Machinist Trainee - Direct Hire

Location: Fort Worth, TX

Pay Rate: $29.00 per hour

Schedule: 2nd shift: Monday-Thursday, 3:15 PM - 1:45 AM
Training conducted on 1st shift


Precision Isn't Optional. It's Who You Are.


Looking for Machinist Trainee openings in Fort Worth where craftsmanship still counts? Launch your machining career with Wabtec , a global leader in transportation and industrial manufacturing solutions. As a Machinist Trainee, you'll participate in an approximately 9-month hands-on training program designed to develop the skills needed to become a fully qualified CNC Machinist. This role provides the opportunity to work with advanced machining equipment, assemble components, support manufacturing operations, and contribute to the production of locomotive and mining equipment components.


Job Duties

• Train on and operate a variety of CNC and manual machining equipment.
• Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and manufacturing specifications.
• Set up machines, fixtures, tools, and workpieces for production.
• Perform precision measurements and quality inspections using manual and electronic inspection tools.
• Change and adjust tooling as needed to maintain product quality.
• Assemble components and finished products.
• Deburr, finish, and prepare machined parts for production.
• Transport materials and components using cranes, forklifts, and other equipment.
• Support continuous improvement and manufacturing process enhancement initiatives.
• Follow all safety, quality, and operational procedures while working collaboratively with the team.

Education Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Technical school, machining certificate, or CNC programming education preferred.
• • Must have high-school diploma or GED or equivalent.

Experience Requirements

• Experience operating, setting up, or programming CNC machine tools.
• Ability to read blueprints, engineering drawings, and technical specifications.
• Knowledge of precision measuring instruments including calipers, micrometers, indicators, and gauges.
• Understanding of machining principles, tooling, feeds, speeds, and material properties.
• Strong attention to detail, mathematical ability, and commitment to quality workmanship.
• Minimum 6 months of CNC machining experience or successful completion of a 6-month CNC certificate program.
• Basic understanding of blueprints and manufacturing instructions.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience with CNC mills, lathes, machining centers, or multi-axis equipment is preferred.
• Experience editing CNC programs, setting tooling offsets, and performing machine setups is beneficial.
• Familiarity with G-code, CAD/CAM software, Haas, Mazak, Okuma, Fanuc, or similar CNC controls is considered an asset.
• Individuals who demonstrate strong troubleshooting abilities, continuous learning, and commitment to precision manufacturing are well positioned for success as a Machinist Trainee.
• Working knowledge of G&M code

Physical Capabilities

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and work around machining equipment throughout the shift.
• Ability to lift materials, tooling, and components weighing up to 40 pounds.
• Manual dexterity to safely operate CNC machinery and precision measuring equipment.
• Ability to work safely around moving machinery while following established safety procedures.
• Must be willing to wear personal protective equipment, for example safety glasses, gloves, hats, ear plugs and safety shoes.
• • Must be able to lift material up to lbs with or without reasonable accommodation.

Benefits

• Competitive Weekly Pay
• Comprehensive Benefits including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Life Insurance and Disability Insurance for added peace of mind.
• Optional 401(k) Plan to help you prepare for the future.
• Modern Manufacturing Environment focused on quality, safety, and continuous improvement.

Join Wabtec and gain valuable skills through a structured machinist training program that can lead to long-term career growth and advancement.

What You Will Do


As a Machinist Trainee you will set up, operate, monitor, and adjust CNC machining equipment to manufacture precision components according to engineering specifications. You will verify machine setups, inspect finished parts using precision measuring instruments, troubleshoot machining issues, maintain tooling, and support quality and production goals while following established safety and manufacturing procedures.

• • Understand and perform all functions required to set up and operate a variety of CNC and /or manual machining equipment including but not limited to: 4 axis vertical lathes, horizontal boring machines, gear gasher, gear grinder, cylindrical grinder, mills and coordinate measuring machines. • Use standard machine tools including, but not limited to drill press, band saw, lathe, press breaks, welding equipment etc., and a variety of hand, electric, and pneumatic tools • Change and adjust tools as required to maintain quality • Set up both fixtures and parts for machining • De-burr parts • Use manual and electronic inspection devices to check multiple quality parameters • Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and mathematical abilities required • Promote climate of cooperation; leading by example mentoring others in safety, quality, environmental, lean and high performance work team philosophies • Work with all facility employees on improving manufacturing processes through prototyping, fabrication and experimental machining to develop and prove concepts and design and implement necessary fixtures and tooling for manufacturing improvements • Assembly of components and full assembly of finished parts • Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and specifications • Knowledge of materials, manufacturing processes, and quality control techniques • Material transport including the use of but not limited to, radio controlled cranes, forklifts and tuggers • Prying and setting heavy equipment may also be required

A Machinist Trainee manufactures precision components using computer numerical control (CNC) equipment to produce consistent, high-quality parts. This role combines technical knowledge, mechanical aptitude, and attention to detail to support modern manufacturing operations.


Successful Machinist Trainee professionals understand machining principles, blueprint interpretation, tooling selection, machine setup, and dimensional inspection while maintaining tight tolerances and production efficiency. Accuracy and craftsmanship are essential to producing reliable finished components.


This profession is ideal for individuals who enjoy precision work, advanced manufacturing technology, and solving technical machining challenges.