Machinist 3 - Days Nights Weekends

Machinist Level 3

Northrop Grumman is seeking a Machinist level 3 to support various programs in the Fabrication Center located in Lake Charles, Louisiana.

These positions are contingent on funding.

Role Description & Responsibilities:

• Set up, and operate CNC mills and lathes for precision tooling, fixtures, and production support parts.
• Design and build custom fixturing, jigs, and tooling for one-off or prototype applications to support assembly and flight hardware operations.
• Perform manual machining (mills, lathes, drill press, surface grinders) for tool repair, modifications, or prototype development.
• Read and interpret detailed blueprints, GD&T callouts, and 3D CAD models.
• Select tools, calculate feeds/speeds, and verify machining parameters for accuracy, efficiency, and repeatability.
• Conduct self-inspection and first article verification to ensure part compliance before release to Quality.
• Collaborate with engineers, planners, and quality personnel to refine processes and resolve manufacturing challenges.
• Maintain work area organization, documentation, and adherence to 5S and FOD standards.

Basic Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent and a minimum of 5 years of experience working in a machine shop.
• Ability to interpret blueprints, sketches, GD & T, and other engineering specifications.
• Working knowledge of shop floor mathematics and measuring tools/equipment.
• Ability to set up and operate a variety of machine tools such as lathes, milling machines, and grinders.
• Be able to use basic hand tools and precision measuring instruments.
• Ability to lift to 40lbs.
• Willingness to learn and possess a positive team working attitude.
• Excellent communication, problem solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Demonstrate ability to work safely and be concerned for the safety of others.
• Able to work any shift. (Includes: Days, Nights and Weekends)

Preferred Qualifications:

• 8 or more years of relevant experience.
• Advanced proficiency in Mastercam programming for milling and turning.
• Strong working knowledge of Haas controls (NextGen or Classic).
• Demonstrated ability to design and fabricate custom fixtures and tooling.
• Deep understanding of feeds, speeds, cutter geometry, and material behavior.
• Capable of performing setups, first articles, and in-process inspections independently.
• Strong problem-solving, troubleshooting, and planning skills.
• Associate's degree or vocational certificate in machining, manufacturing technology, or related field.
• Background in aerospace, tooling, or high-precision prototype manufacturing.
• Experience with 4th/5th-axis machining, setup documentation, and digital manufacturing workflows.
• Familiarity with inspection tools, CMM processes.

Primary Level Salary Range: $52,700.00 - $87,900.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.

The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.