Per Diem CNC Machinist

Travel Machinist

The Travel Machinist sets up and operates CNC machining centers, manual and CNC mills, manual lathes, and related equipment to produce precision, large-scale parts in a timely and accurate manner. This role requires independent machine setup, tooling changes, and quality checks using precision measuring instruments, while working primarily on night shifts in a large, multi-building machine shop environment.

• Set up and operate CNC machining centers, manual and CNC mills, and manual lathes to produce precision parts according to specifications.
• Align and securely fasten holding fixtures, cutting tools, attachments, accessories, and materials onto machines prior to operation.
• Select appropriate tools and materials for each job in preparation for machining work.
• Machine parts to exact specifications using CNC mills, lathes, and grinders, ensuring adherence to required tolerances.
• Set up, adjust, and operate all basic machine tools, including 2-, 3-, 4-, and 5-axis machines with Fanuc and Siemens controls.
• Calculate dimensions and tolerances using micrometers, depth micrometers, inside diameter gauges, outside diameter gauges, calipers, and other precision instruments.
• Read and interpret blueprints and gauging sheets to determine machining requirements and inspection criteria.
• Perform independent machine setups that may take 2–3 hours of the shift, or continue production on setups completed by the previous operator.
• Operate hoists to safely load large parts onto machining centers, lathes, or mills, using overhead lifting equipment on all machines.
• Coordinate with fork truck operators who deliver parts and materials to the workstation, without needing to move material independently.
• Work with tool crib personnel to ensure required tooling is delivered to the station and maintain proper tool usage and care.
• Conduct own quality checks on every part produced, using gauges and following established check sheets within the Plex computer system.
• Maintain tight machining tolerances, including +/- 0.001" and 0.004–0.005" of an inch, depending on part requirements.
• Machine large-scale parts made from cast iron, rolled steel, and carbon steel, ensuring proper handling and precision.
• Move between different machines as needed, including mills, lathes, and machining centers, to support production demands.
• Follow established orientation, safety procedures, and operational rules consistent with facility standards.
• Adhere to shift schedules, including night shift hours and designated meal breaks, while maintaining consistent attendance and communication.
• Support production for a wide range of brands and industries, including heavy equipment, oil and gas, aerospace, and mining applications.

• Hands-on CNC machining experience on lathes and mills.
• Proven ability to independently set up CNC and manual machines, including fixturing, tooling, and program verification.
• Ability to independently change tooling and make necessary adjustments during production.
• Experience working with large-scale parts and overhead lifting equipment such as hoists.
• Strong blueprint reading skills, including the ability to interpret dimensions, tolerances, and machining notes.
• Proficient use of precision quality tools, including micrometers, depth micrometers, inside diameter gauges, and outside diameter gauges.
• Demonstrated ability to hold tight machining tolerances of +/- 0.001" and 0.004–0.005" of an inch.
• Comfort working with materials such as cast iron, rolled steel, and carbon steel.
• Ability to perform own in-process inspection and quality checks on every part using established check sheets and gauges.
• Willingness and ability to work night shifts on a consistent schedule.

• Experience working with Fanuc controls.
• Programming experience on CNC machines.
• Past machining experience on parts for heavy equipment manufacturers such as CAT or Komatsu.
• Manual machining experience on mills and lathes.
• Experience with 2-, 3-, 4-, and 5-axis CNC machines, including brands such as Wester Bennett, Toshiba, and UG machines.
• Familiarity with using Plex or similar manufacturing execution or quality tracking systems.
• Ability to work across mills, lathes, and machining centers and adapt to different machines as production requires.
• Preparedness to bring a personal tool list that can be certified by the facility.
• Comfort working with large-scale industrial equipment and in a high-production machine shop environment.

Join a large, established machine shop that supports heavy equipment, oil and gas, aerospace, and mining industries, offering exposure to advanced multi-axis CNC technology and a wide variety of complex, large-scale parts. Enjoy a structured travel opportunity, clear safety-focused orientation, and a culture that values craftsmanship, precision, and professional conduct. The environment provides opportunities to broaden your experience across multiple machines and brands, build your skills with…