5-Axis CNC Machinist – 1st 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: 1st Shift
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

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

This position plays a key role in producing large, complex machined components used in military vehicle systems, fabricated structures, armored products, and mission‑critical applications. We are seeking an experienced 5‑axis machinist who enjoys solving complex machining challenges and wants to be part of a rapidly growing manufacturing operation.

• 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 tooling, offsets, work holding, and compensation
• Prove out programs and perform first-piece inspections
• Align and locate large work pieces using stock models and tooling balls
• Fixture and machine large weldments, castings, forgings, and structural components
• 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 in Plex ERP
• Collaborate with engineering, quality, programming, and materials teams
• Support TPM and preventative maintenance initiatives
• Maintain compliance with quality, safety, and environmental standards

• Zimmermann 5-Axis Machining Centers
• Apec 5-Axis Machining Centers
• FPT Machining Centers
• Mecof Machining Centers

• Heidenhain
• Fidia

• Mastercam

• Plex

• Steel
• Alloy Steel
• Weldments
• Castings
• Forgings
• Plate Material
• Tubing
• Defense‑grade structural materials

• High school diploma or GED
• 5+ years of CNC machining experience
• Minimum 2 years of Mastercam experience
• Experience with complex 5‑axis machining applications
• Ability to read blueprints and interpret GD&T
• Strong understanding of tooling, work holding, offsets, and setup strategies
• Knowledge of ISO 9001 and/or AS9100 quality systems
• Understanding of 5S manufacturing practices
• Strong troubleshooting and problem‑solving abilities
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
• Reliable attendance and strong communication skills

• Experience with Zimmermann, Apec, FPT, or Mecof machining centers
• Experience with Heidenhain controls
• Experience with Fidia controls
• Crane operation experience
• Knowledge of ISO 14001 Environmental Management Systems
• Experience in defense, aerospace, heavy equipment, or large‑part machining environments

• Growing defense manufacturer supporting critical military programs
• Modern 5-axis machining technology and continuous investment in equipment
• Opportunity to work on large, complex, high‑impact components
• Sign‑on bonus opportunities after 90 days
• Quarterly bonus opportunities
• Comprehensive benefits package
• Structured Machining Development Program
• Long‑term career growth opportunities
• Stable workload and expanding operations

Competitive Hourly Rate (DOE)

• Sign‑on bonus opportunities after 90 days
• Quarterly bonus opportunities

• Medical Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• 401(k)
• Short‑Term Disability
• Long‑Term Disability
• Company contribution toward insurance premiums
• Benefits begin the first of the month following start date
• Machining Development Program
• Career advancement opportunities

1st Shift

(Exact hours to be confirmed)

Overtime: Available as business needs require