Machinist

The Machinist at Photon Automation is responsible for manufacturing precision components and tooling used in the assembly of custom automation equipment designed in
-house. This role requires selecting appropriate materials, determining efficient machining methods, planning work holding and fixturing, and producing high-quality parts that meet engineering specifications. The ideal candidate is a self-motivated problem solver who takes ownership of the manufacturing process, maintains tight tolerances, and collaborates closely with engineering and assembly teams to support successful machine builds.

• Interpret engineering drawings, 3D CAD models, GD&T, and work instructions to manufacture precision components for custom automation equipment.
• Program, set up, and operate Hurco CNC machining centers using Win Max Conversational Programming or Fusion 360 depending on complexity, creating efficient machining routines for one-off and low-volume parts.
• Modify existing conversational programs and optimize machining strategies to improve cycle times, part quality, and ease of setup.
• Determine the most efficient manufacturing process, including tooling selection, work holding, fixturing, cutting parameters, and machining sequence.
• Design and fabricate custom fixtures, soft jaws, and work holding solutions as needed to accurately machine complex components.
• Set up and operate manual mills, lathes, saws, drill presses, and other shop equipment as required.
• Verify part dimensions using precision measuring equipment including calipers, micrometers, bore gauges, dial indicators, and height gauges.
• Inspect finished components to ensure compliance with engineering drawings, GD&T, and tolerance requirements.
• Deburr, finish, and prepare machined components for assembly while maintaining a high standard of craftsmanship.
• Work closely with engineering and assembly personnel to identify manufacturability improvements and resolve machining challenges.
• Perform preventative maintenance and routine upkeep on machining equipment to ensure safe and reliable operation.
• Maintain an organized, clean, and safe machine shop while supporting multiple prototype and custom machine build projects.
• Ability to forecast timeline based on number of parts in queue.
• Experience programming Hurco Win Max Conversational CNC controls is strongly preferred.
• Ability to Program complex toolpaths with the use of Fusion 360 or similar CAM Program.
• Experience with Microsoft suite, including SharePoint and office to communicate and mark work complete.
• Experience machining one-off prototype parts and custom tooling.
• Familiarity with Autodesk Inventor and the ability to interpret 3D models is a plus.

• Experience in using and/or programming manual, semi-automated or automated tools and machines (lathes, grinders etc.)

• Vocational school or apprenticeship

This job operates in a professional office and shop environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, and photocopiers. This role will also be exposed to industrial equipment including but not limited to lathes, mills, and forklifts.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

This is a full-time, 40-hours per week position, and typical hours of work and days are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Additional shifts may be assigned as business needs dictate and occasional evening and weekend work may be required as job duties demand.

Travel is not a regular expectation of this position but could be required depending on company needs.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.