Wire EDM Programmer​/Operator – Houston, TX

Position: Wire EDM Programmer / Operator – Houston, TX
At a Glance

Company:  Gretna Machine Shop

Location:

Houston, TX (Northwest)
Job Type:  Full-Time
Pay Range:

EDM Operator:  $20 – $25/hr

EDM Programmer:  $25 – $30/hr

Shift:  Day Shift (with potential future flexibility)
Overtime:  Available
Experience Level:  Entry to Mid (Operator) | Mid-Level (Programmer)
Work Authorization:  U.S. work authorization required

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- Why This Role Exists

This role exists to support growing demand for high-precision components at Gretna Machine Shop, particularly in aerospace and energy applications where EDM is critical.

As the shop continues to expand capabilities, this position plays a key role in producing complex parts that require tight tolerances, intricate geometries, and high surface finish standards.

This is a strong opportunity for:

Operators looking to  step into programming

Programmers who want to work on  real, high-spec EDM work

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- The Work You’ll Be Doing

Program, set up, and operate  ONA Wire EDM machines

Develop and edit EDM programs (machine control and/or offline CAM)

Read and interpret  blueprints, CAD models, and GD&T

Select proper wire, flushing strategy, and cutting parameters

Perform setups, offsets, alignments, and  first article inspections

Monitor machining for accuracy, surface finish, and tolerance

Inspect parts using micrometers, calipers, height gauges, and comparators

Troubleshoot issues (wire breaks, accuracy, process deviations)

Perform routine maintenance and keep machines running efficiently

Support production while machines are running (deburring, marking, etc.)

Collaborate with engineering, quality, and machining teams

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- Machines, Equipment & Environment

ONA Wire EDM machines

Precision inspection tools:

Micrometers, calipers, height gauges

Optical comparators

Clean, organized production floor inside a
50,000 sq. ft. air-conditioned facility

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- What You’ll Be Working On

Parts:  Precision aerospace and energy components

Work Type:  High-mix, low-volume + complex geometries

Tolerances:  Tight-tolerance, high-spec work

Materials:

Aluminum

Stainless steel

Tool steels

Nickel alloys (Inconel, etc.)

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- What We’re Looking For  For Operators ($20–$25/hr)

Experience operating EDM or CNC machines

Ability to read blueprints and basic GD&T

Familiarity with inspection tools

Strong attention to detail and reliability

For Programmers ($25–$30/hr)

Experience programming  Wire EDM (ONA preferred)

Strong understanding of EDM cutting strategies and parameters

Ability to interpret complex drawings and GD&T

Experience with CAD/CAM or offline programming software

Nice to Have

Aerospace or high-precision manufacturing experience

Tool & die or mold making background

Lean manufacturing or continuous improvement exposure

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- Why Machinists Like Working at Gretna Machine Shop

Work on  complex, non-repetitive parts

Exposure to  aerospace and energy components

Opportunity to  grow from operator → programmer → advanced roles

Clean, air-conditioned shop

Long-tenured team and strong internal knowledge base

Investment in equipment and expanding capabilities

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- Apply

Apply directly through hire

CNC