CNC Machinist

CNC Machinist

The CNC Machinist sets up and operates CNC machining centers to manufacture aluminum tooling and trim composite parts in accordance with approved drawings, specifications, work instructions, and customer requirements. This position selects and loads approved CNC programs, confirms the correct program and revision, installs tooling and fixtures, establishes approved machine and tool offsets, monitors machining operations, and performs dimensional inspections using precision measuring instruments. The CNC Machinist is responsible for producing conforming work safely and efficiently while maintaining accurate production documentation and supporting quality, productivity, and schedule requirements.

CNC Machining

• Set up and operate assigned 3-, 4-, and 5-axis CNC machining centers, based on training and qualification, to machine aluminum tooling and trim composite parts to customer specifications.
• Select and load the correct approved CNC program for the assigned Manufacturing Order (MO).
• Confirm the CNC program and revision number before beginning machining operations.

• Accurately record labor, quantities, operations completed, inspection results, material usage, scrap, and other required information on Manufacturing Orders (MOs).
• Measure, mark, and scribe dimensions and reference points to lay out stock for machining.
• Load and secure parts, fixtures, and cutting tools in accordance with approved setup instructions and workholding requirements.
• Inspect, replace and adjust cutting tools and approved tool offsets as necessary to maintain dimensional and quality requirements.
• Perform routine operator-level cleaning, inspection, lubrication, and preventive maintenance as assigned, and promptly report equipment damage, unusual conditions, or needed repairs.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Operate CNC equipment in accordance with established safety procedures, work instructions, and manufacturer requirements.
• Maintain clean and orderly machines and work areas and promptly remove chips, dust, debris, and potential foreign-object debris (FOD).

Quality and Continuous Improvement

• Perform in-process and final dimensional inspections using calipers, micrometers, gauges, and other precision measuring instruments.
• Verify first-piece and subsequent parts against approved drawings, specifications, work instructions and inspection requirements.
• Interpret engineering drawings, tolerances, and GD&T requirements applicable to assigned work.
• Identify and report nonconforming material, tooling problems, program errors, and process deviations.
• Complete required manufacturing, inspection, traceability, and production documentation accurately and promptly.
• Follow applicable AS9100 procedures, customer requirements, and document-control practices.
• Handle composite parts and aluminum tooling in a manner that prevents damage, contamination, and foreign-object debris.

Minimum Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• At least two years of CNC machining experience, including machine setup and operation using existing CNC programs.
• Understanding of CNC machine setup, part and tooling changeover, program selection and machine monitoring procedures.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, technical specifications, work instructions, tolerances, and applicable GD&T requirements.
• Experience using calipers, micrometers, gauges, and other precision measuring instruments.
• Working knowledge of tooling, fixtures, workholding, offsets, feeds, speeds, and machining calculations.
• Ability to use computers and electronic manufacturing or production-record systems.
• Ability to understand and communicate work-related information and follow written and verbal instructions.

Preferred Qualifications

• Machining or CNC certification.
• Experience with Mastercam or comparable CAD/CAM programs.
• Experience operating 4- or 5-axis CNC machining centers preferred; training may be provided to otherwise qualified candidates
• Experience machining aluminum tooling and trimming composite materials.
• Aerospace manufacturing or AS9100 experience.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

• Regularly stand and walk for extended periods while operating and monitoring CNC equipment.
• Frequently use hands and fingers to operate machine controls, computers, tools, fixtures, and measuring instruments.
• Frequently reach, bend, stoop, and position materials, tooling, and parts during machine setup and operation.
• Possess the manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination necessary to perform machine setup, tool changes, inspection, and precision measurement.
• Lift, carry, push, pull, or reposition tooling, fixtures, raw materials, parts, and equipment weighing up to 50 pounds independently and heavier items with assistance or appropriate lifting equipment.
• Work is performed in an active manufacturing environment, with regular time spent in the CNC machining and production areas.
• Regular exposure to operating CNC machines, cutting tools, moving mechanical components, powered industrial equipment, and material-handling activities.
• Exposure to elevated noise levels from machining, trimming, dust-collection systems, compressed air, and other manufacturing equipment. Hearing protection may be required in designated areas.
• Required to wear applicable personal protective equipment, which may include safety glasses, hearing protection, safety footwear, gloves, protective clothing, and respiratory protection when required by the task or designated work area.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

Personal Characteristics

• Demonstrates a collaborative approach and actively participates in continuous-improvement initiatives.
• Works independently, takes initiative, and maintains consistent productivity.
• Demonstrates close attention to detail and a commitment to producing conforming work.
• Ability to manage assigned priorities, and collaborate effectively with Production, Engineering, and Quality.
• Demonstrates dependability, accountability and a willingness to learn new equipment and processes.

This position may require access to export-controlled technical data. Employment is contingent upon the individual's eligibility to access such data under applicable U.S. export-control laws or Decavo's ability to obtain any required authorization.