EDM Machinist and Technical Applications Lead (EDM Sinker and Wire)

EDM Machinist and Technical Applications Lead – 5-Axis Sinker and Wire

Metalex Manufacturing is seeking an experienced Lead EDM Machinist with strong ram/sinker EDM skills, sound technical judgment, and the ability to take complex parts from setup through successful first-article prove-out and low volume production.

This is a hands-on opportunity for a skilled machinist who enjoys solving difficult machining challenges, takes pride in precision workmanship, and is open operating as a leader. You will work closely with machinists, programmers, tooling engineers, and quality teammates on demanding wire EDM and ram/sinker EDM projects, including complex 5-axis sinker EDM applications.

What You Will Do

• Independently set up, program, and operate wire and ram/sinker EDM machines for complex, close-tolerance components.
• Develop machining strategies, select appropriate parameters, and work with tooling engineering to determine electrode and workholding requirements.
• Prove out first-article parts and refine setups, programs, and machining parameters to achieve quality and repeatability.
• Interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) requirements.
• Troubleshoot machining, electrode, wire, setup, and process issues.
• Use precision measuring instruments to verify work throughout the machining process.
• Collaborate with programming, tooling engineering, and quality teammates to develop effective machining solutions.
• Provide hands-on technical guidance and mentoring to less-experienced EDM machinists.
• Help identify priorities, communicate process challenges, and support the team in meeting production commitments.
• Keep machines running productively by preparing upcoming jobs, coordinating electrodes, tooling, materials, and programs, reducing avoidable downtime, and planning extended or unattended machining cycles where appropriate.
• Improve machining methods, setup practices, cycle times, and process documentation while maintaining quality.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized work area.

What You Bring

• At least five years of EDM machining experience, with strong hands-on wire and ram/sinker EDM capability.
• Ability to independently develop machining processes and setups, create and edit CNC programs, and prove out first-article parts.
• Strong understanding of EDM technology, machining parameters, and process troubleshooting.
• Ability to evaluate machining approaches and improve productivity, reliability, and part quality.
• Proficiency in blueprint reading and GD&T.
• Experience using precision measuring and inspection equipment.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and practical shop mathematics skills.
• A consistent commitment to quality, accountability, and teamwork.
• Ability to work independently while communicating effectively across departments.

Preferred experience

• Makino EDM machines.
• Complex 5-axis sinker EDM operations.
• Advanced wire EDM applications.
• Aerospace components and high-temperature alloys.
• Technical leadership, mentoring, or lead machinist responsibilities.

Additional Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• U.S. citizenship or U.S. permanent resident status, as required by Metalex for this position involving ITAR-controlled work.
• Required drug screening.
• Willingness to work an average of 48 hours per week, including some Saturdays.

About Metalex

Metalex is an ISO 9001 / AS9100 certified, high-tech manufacturer serving aerospace, space flight, consumer goods, energy, and other demanding industries. We strive to operate among the top 5% of our industry through technical capability, continuous improvement, and a strong commitment to customer satisfaction.

Our hands-on leaders and self-directed teammates work together in a clean, ergonomic environment grounded in Lean principles. Our business model, “Interaction Without Boundaries,” encourages shared responsibility, open communication, and respect for each teammate’s contribution. We invest in continuous learning so our people can expand their skills and do their best work.

Work Schedule

Work is performed on site at our Blue Ash, Ohio facility.

• Day shift: 6:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
• Night shift: 3:30 p.m.–1:30 a.m.
• Day and night shifts are available. Night shift includes a 10% pay differential.

Please review the application screening questions regarding schedule, weekly hours required, specific workdays, paid hours, and weekend scheduling, etc.

Compensation and Benefits

Metalex offers competitive wages based on experience and qualifications, along with a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Family health insurance and prescription drug coverage.
• Family dental coverage.
• Employee life insurance.
• Short-term and long-term disability coverage.
• Voluntary life insurance and voluntary short-term disability options.
• 401(k) plan with a 7% company match.
• Flexible spending account.
• Paid time off.
• Employee referral program.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• On-site exercise facility and employee park.
• Montana cabin benefit.