5-Axis CNC Machinist – 2nd Shift; Mastercam​/Heidenhain

Position: 5-Axis CNC Machinist – 2nd Shift (Mastercam / Heidenhain)
At a Glance

Company:  American Rheinmetall

Location:

Lapeer, MI (On-Site)
Job Type:  Full-Time
Pay Range:  Competitive Hourly Rate (DOE)

Shift:  2nd Shift | Monday–Thursday | 4:30 PM – 2:30 AM
Overtime:  Available as Needed
Experience Level:  Senior (5+ Years)
Work Authorization:  Must be able to meet requirements for employment in a U.S. defense manufacturing environment

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- Why This Role Exists

American Rheinmetall continues to expand its advanced machining capabilities at its Lapeer, Michigan facility to support growing defense and commercial manufacturing programs.

This role plays a critical part in producing large, complex machined components used in military vehicle systems, fabricated structures, and mission-critical products. We're looking for an experienced 5-axis machinist who can take ownership of setup, programming, troubleshooting, and production while helping support the next phase of growth within our machining operations.

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- The Work You'll Be Doing

In this role, you will:

Set up and operate large-format 5-axis CNC machining centers

Program and optimize machining operations using Mastercam

Interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, specifications, and GD&T requirements

Establish work offsets, tooling compensation, and machine setups

Perform machine prove-outs and first-piece inspections

Align and locate large work pieces using stock models and tooling balls

Hang and fixture large components on horizontal machining centers

Monitor machining operations and make adjustments to maintain quality and efficiency

Troubleshoot tooling, machine, and process issues through root-cause analysis

Complete production and quality documentation within Plex ERP

Collaborate with engineering, quality, materials, and programming teams

Support preventive maintenance and Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) initiatives

Maintain compliance with quality, safety, and environmental standards

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- Machines, Controls & Software

You'll work with equipment such as:

Machines:

Zimmermann 5-Axis Machining Centers

Apec 5-Axis Machining Centers

FPT Machining Centers

Mecof Machining Centers

Controls:

Heidenhain

Fidia

CAM Software:

Mastercam

ERP System:

Plex

Inspection Equipment:

Precision measuring tools and first-article inspection equipment

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- Materials You'll Work With

Depending on program requirements, machining work may include:

Steel

Alloy Steel

Weldments

Castings

Forgings

Plate Material

Tubing

Defense-grade structural materials

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- What We're Looking For Required

High school diploma or GED

Minimum 5 years of CNC machining experience in a multi-axis environment

Minimum 2 years of Mastercam programming experience

Experience setting up and operating complex 5-axis machining centers

Ability to read blueprints and interpret GD&T

Strong understanding of tooling, offsets, work holding, and machining strategies

Knowledge of ISO 9001 and/or AS9100 quality systems

Understanding of 5S and lean manufacturing principles

Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills

Ability to safely lift up to 50 pounds

Reliable attendance and strong communication skills

Preferred

Experience with Heidenhain controls

Experience with Fidia controls

Crane operation experience

Knowledge of ISO 14001 Environmental Management Systems

Experience machining large structural components

Experience in defense, heavy equipment, or aerospace manufacturing

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- Why Machinists Like Working Here

Machinists choose American Rheinmetall because:

Growing defense manufacturer with long-term program stability

Modern 5-axis machining technology and ongoing equipment investment

Opportunity to work on large, complex, high-visibility components

Quarterly bonus opportunities

Sign-on bonus opportunities after 90 days

Structured Machining Development Program

Strong advancement opportunities as the company continues to expand

Comprehensive benefits package

Team-oriented manufacturing culture focused on quality and continuous improvement

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- Pay, Benefits & Schedule Pay

Competitive Hourly Rate (DOE)

Additional Compensation

Sign-on bonus opportunities after 90 days

Quarterly bonus opportunities

Benefits

Medical Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

401(k)

Short-Term Disability

Long-Term Disability

Company contribution toward insurance premiums

Benefits…