Machinist

MachinistThis role is a hands-on Machinist position in a job shop environment focused on custom repair work. You will set up and operate a variety of manual and CNC machines, work with engine lathes, and machine parts made from exotic materials. Each day brings different projects, and you will use both blueprints and written or verbal instructions to produce precision components that meet exact specifications.ResponsibilitiesSet up and operate multiple machines per day, adjusting setups based on part complexity and job requirements.Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and written or verbal instructions to determine machining requirements and specifications.Work closely with mechanics and the foreman to understand part requirements and ensure parts are machined to the correct specifications, using approximately 50% blueprint guidance and 50% written or verbal direction.Operate engine lathes and perform left-hand and right-hand threading to produce parts required for pump repairs and other custom jobs.Use a variety of equipment, including vertical turning lathes (VTL), manual lathes, CNC lathes, mills, grinders, and key seaters, as needed to complete each job.Machine parts using exotic materials such as stainless steel, brass, 300 stainless, 4140, and occasional carbon steel, ensuring appropriate feeds, speeds, and tooling.Perform manual machining operations, including turning, facing, boring, drilling, and threading, to produce precision components.Set up, operate, and troubleshoot machines to maintain quality and efficiency throughout the production process.Use measuring tools such as calipers and other precision instruments to verify part dimensions and tolerances.Identify and resolve basic machine and process issues, adjusting setups and tooling to maintain accuracy and productivity.Follow shop safety procedures and use provided safety equipment to maintain a safe working environment.Collaborate with team members in the machine shop and workshop areas to support assembly, disassembly, and repair activities.Maintain a clean and organized work area and care for machines, tools, and equipment to ensure reliable operation.Essential SkillsExperience as a Manual Machinist or strong mechanical ability with a demonstrated interest in machining.Hands-on experience with manual lathes, including engine lathes, with the ability to perform both left-hand and right-hand threading.Ability to set up, operate, and troubleshoot manual machining equipment, including lathes and mills.Familiarity with working in a job shop environment where daily work and parts vary based on custom repair needs.Experience working with exotic materials such as stainless steel, brass, 300 stainless, 4140, and occasional carbon steel.Basic blueprint reading skills with the ability and willingness to develop full proficiency in interpreting engineering drawings and specifications.Ability to follow both written and verbal instructions to produce parts to exact specifications.Comfort using precision measuring tools such as calipers and related inspection instruments.Positive, energetic attitude with strong initiative and a track record of reliable attendance.Mechanical aptitude that may come from trade school, technical training, or hands-on experience in environments such as automotive shops or similar settings.Additional Skills & QualificationsTrade school or technical school experience in machining or a related mechanical field is preferred but not required.High school diploma or equivalent education is preferred.Experience in an automotive shop or similar mechanical environment is highly valued.Exposure to CNC machines, including CNC lathes such as Milltronix, is a plus.Familiarity with equipment and brands such as Vertical Turning Lathe (VTL) 78" 4" Bar, 53" lathes, Toolmex, Milltronix CNC Lathe, Giddings and Lurig, Turnow, Bridgeport, grinders, key seaters, Monarch, Peroba, and Femco bar equipment.Experience with manual machining processes including turning, manual lathe operation, and general machine operation.Ability to read and work from engineering drawings and apply troubleshooting skills to machining processes.Comfort working with a range of manual and CNC equipment in a repair-focused environment.Why Work Here?You will join a stable, skilled team that invests in your growth through structured training and development. The company offers comprehensive health insurance, retirement benefits with a 401(k) plan and discretionary match, and a strong package of paid time off including 10 paid holidays and vacation time that begins accruing early in your tenure. You will receive safety glasses, boot compensation, and other safety equipment to support your work. As you develop your skills, you can pursue clear career paths into leadership, estimating, and other advanced roles within the business, giving you long-term opportunities to grow your career in a supportive and safety-focused environment.Work EnvironmentThe work takes place in a medium-sized facility with approximately 15 employees, providing a close-knit, collaborative atmosphere. The layout includes a receiving area, a workshop where mechanics assemble and disassemble equipment, and a full machine shop equipped with a wide range of manual and CNC machines. You will work with equipment such as vertical turning lathes, manual lathes, CNC lathes, mills, grinders, key seaters, and other precision machinery. The environment centers on custom repair work, so daily tasks and parts vary, offering variety and continual learning. Safety is a priority, with safety glasses, boots, and other protective gear provided. The shop environment is typical of a machine shop, with active machinery, metalworking operations, and hands-on work at machines and benches.Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of BLUE ISLAND, IL.Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $25.00 - $50.00/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 TypeThis is a fully onsite position in BLUE ISLAND, IL.Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Sep 8, 2026.