Senior Production Machinist

SENIOR CNC MACHINIST

COMPANY PROFILE:

High Precision Grinding and Machining, a Mavericks Manufacturing Partners Company, is a long-established precision grinding and machining company specializing in the manufacturing of components for critical applications in a variety of high-end markets.

Examples of applications include critical fleet programs for the U.S. Navy, spacecraft and satellites, aerospace, clean technology, alternative energy, semiconductor, medical equipment, and nuclear components.

JOB SUMMARY:

We currently have an exciting opportunity for a Senior CNC Machinist to join our team located in El Cajon, CA. The Senior CNC Machinist is responsible for independently setting up and operating CNC lathes and milling machines to produce complex, tight-tolerance components in accordance with engineering drawings, specifications, and customer requirements.

This position serves as a senior technical resource within the machining team and is expected to troubleshoot difficult machining issues, optimize setups and processes, and mentor less-experienced machinists. The Senior CNC Machinist must also be capable of providing work direction and leading machining activities when needed.

This role requires advanced machining knowledge, strong attention to detail, and a commitment to safety, quality, productivity, and continuous improvement.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Independently set up and operate CNC lathes and milling machines to manufacture precision components.

Perform complex machine setups, including tooling selection, fixture installation, workholding, offsets, and machine parameter adjustments.

Read and interpret engineering drawings, technical specifications, job travelers, routers, and work instructions.

Apply geometric dimensioning and tolerancing requirements when setting up, machining, and inspecting parts.

Select appropriate cutting tools, fixtures, speeds, feeds, and machining strategies for each job.

Load, edit, and prove out CNC programs using G-code and M-code.

Make program, tooling, offset, and process adjustments to maintain dimensional requirements and improve machining performance.

Troubleshoot machining problems, including tool wear, chatter, dimensional variation, poor surface finish, and workholding issues.

Manufacture complex, close-tolerance components from a variety of metals and engineered materials.

Perform first-piece and in-process inspections using micrometers, calipers, indicators, bore gauges, height gauges, thread gauges, and other precision measuring equipment.

Verify that finished parts meet drawing dimensions, tolerances, surface finish requirements, and workmanship standards.

Identify and report nonconforming material, dimensional deviations, damaged tooling, or process concerns.

Collaborate with programmers, engineers, inspectors, supervisors, and other machinists to resolve manufacturing issues.

Recommend improvements to machining methods, tooling, fixtures, setup instructions, and production processes.

Assist with the development and improvement of standardized setups, work instructions, and machining best practices.

Train and mentor less-experienced machinists on machine setup, operation, inspection techniques, troubleshooting, and shop procedures.

Provide technical guidance and work direction to other machinists when requested by supervision or management.

Support first article inspections and provide information needed to complete required inspection documentation.

Maintain accurate production, setup, inspection, and job-tracking records.

Follow job routers, production schedules, and established priorities.

Monitor machine performance and communicate maintenance or repair needs.

Perform routine cleaning and basic preventive maintenance of machines, tools, and work areas.

Maintain an organized and safe work environment.

Follow all company safety requirements and proper handling procedures for machines, tooling, materials, and equipment.

Ensure compliance with applicable ISO 9001 and AS9100 quality system requirements.

Perform other duties as assigned or required.

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS:

High school diploma or equivalent required.

Technical certificate or vocational training in machining, manufacturing, or a related discipline preferred.

Minimum of 5 years of CNC machining experience in a precision manufacturing environment.

Demonstrated experience independently setting up and operating CNC lathes, mills, or multi-axis machining equipment.

Experience machining complex, tight-tolerance components.

Strong understanding of machining principles, tooling, cutting conditions, workholding, and manufacturing processes.

Ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings and technical specifications.

Strong working knowledge of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing.

Experience using G-code, M-code, machine controls, and CNC program editing functions.

Ability to troubleshoot machining, tooling, setup, and dimensional issues.

Strong proficiency with micrometers, calipers, indicators, bore gauges, height gauges, thread gauges, and other precision measurement equipment.

Ability to perform accurate first-piece and in-process inspections.

Experience training, mentoring, or providing technical guidance to other machinists.

Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing conforming product.

Effective communication, teamwork, organization, and problem-solving skills.

Ability to work independently with limited supervision.

Familiarity with ISO 9001, AS9100, or other regulated quality systems preferred.

Experience in aerospace, defense, nuclear, semiconductor, medical, or other high-requirement manufacturing environments preferred.

Lean manufacturing or Lean Six Sigma training is a plus.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.

Ability to bend, stoop, squat, reach, climb, and work around manufacturing equipment.

Ability to safely lift and move parts, tooling, fixtures, and materials weighing up to 40 pounds, with assistance for heavier items.

Ability to use hand tools, inspection equipment, machine controls, and computer systems throughout the workday.

Ability to work extended hours, overtime, or weekends when required based on production needs.

CAREER PATH:

This role is ideal for an experienced machinist seeking to advance into technical or operational leadership positions. With experience and training, advancement opportunities may include:

Lead Machinist

CNC Programmer

Manufacturing Technician

Manufacturing or Process Engineer

Production Supervisor

SALARY RANGE:

$25.00 to $40.00 per hour; negotiable based on experience, technical capability, and equipment knowledge.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

Travel Percentage Required: 0–10%

Relocation Assistance Provided: Not provided

U.S. Citizenship Required: Yes

Clearance Required: Not required

Clearance Level: Not required