Gun Drill Operator

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Gun Drill Operator (DEEP HOLE GUN DRILLING EXPERIENCE REQUIRED)

Job Description

The Gun Drill Operator sets up and operates specialized gun drilling machines to produce precise deep holes in metal components. This role focuses on high-accuracy machining, careful setup of work holding fixtures, and consistent use of precision measuring tools to ensure all parts meet strict dimensional and quality specifications. The position requires strong technical ability, attention to detail, and the physical capacity to work efficiently in a fast-paced production environment.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate gun drilling machines to produce deep, precise holes in metal components.
• Configure and secure work holding fixtures to ensure safe, stable, and accurate machining operations.
• Drill holes to tight tolerances for roundness, straightness, size, surface finish, and concentricity in a single pass.
• Interpret and follow blueprints and technical drawings to determine machining requirements and part specifications.
• Use precision measuring tools to verify part dimensions and confirm conformance to design specifications.
• Inspect workpieces during and after machining, making adjustments to machine settings as needed to maintain quality.
• Maintain and sharpen drill heads to ensure optimal cutting performance and consistent results.
• Follow coolant system protocols to extend tool life and maintain proper cutting conditions.
• Monitor machine performance and report any issues or irregularities to appropriate personnel.
• Work efficiently in a fast-paced production environment while meeting tight deadlines and production targets.
• Stand for extended periods while operating machinery and performing related tasks.
• Handle physically demanding tasks, including lifting materials and components weighing up to 50 lbs.
• Use hand and power tools safely and effectively to support machining and setup activities.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area to promote safety and efficiency.

Essential Skills

• Proven experience setting up and operating gun drilling machines.
• Typically 2+ years of experience in machining or related roles.
• Strong knowledge of precision machining processes and equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings.
• Proficiency with precision measuring tools to verify part dimensions and tolerances.
• Hands-on experience with CNC and drilling machines.
• Ability to achieve and maintain tight tolerances for roundness, straightness, size, finish, and concentricity.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a fast-paced production environment.
• Physical ability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform physically demanding tasks.
• Ability to work standing for long periods while operating machines and performing inspections.
• Safe and effective use of hand and power tools in a machining environment.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with deep hole gun drilling operations.
• Familiarity with gun drilling machine brands such as Dehoff and El Dorado, with the ability to adapt to different brands as needed.
• Experience using a variety of hand and power tools to support machining and maintenance tasks.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality parts.
• Ability to troubleshoot basic machining issues and adjust machine settings to improve results.
• Solid understanding of coolant systems and their role in extending tool life and maintaining machining quality.

Why Work Here?

You will join a production environment that values precision craftsmanship, consistent quality, and continuous improvement. The team emphasizes practical, hands-on skills and supports operators in developing deeper expertise in gun drilling and precision machining. You can expect a stable workload, clear expectations, and the opportunity to build a strong technical foundation in a specialized area of manufacturing.

Work Environment

The role is based in a manufacturing facility with a strong focus on precision machining and deep hole gun drilling operations. You will work primarily on gun drilling and CNC machines, using hand and power tools and a range of precision measuring instruments. The environment is fast-paced and production-driven, with tight deadlines and the need to maintain consistent output and quality. Work requires standing for extended periods and regularly lifting up to 50 lbs while handling materials and components. Coolant systems and drill head maintenance are part of daily operations, and the workspace is organized to support safe, efficient machine operation.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Tacoma, WA.

The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $38.00/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)

This is a fully onsite position in Tacoma,WA.

This position is anticipated to close on Oct 20, 2026.

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.