Cnc Machine Operator

Tool Grinder / CNC Machine Operator

The Tool Grinder / CNC Machine Operator sets up, operates, and maintains grinding and CNC equipment to produce tooling that meets manufacturer and customer specifications while supporting cost-effective production. This role requires a strong understanding of each customer's job application to ensure tools are manufactured correctly, safely, and in compliance with established quality standards and ISO requirements.

• Set up grinding and CNC machines for each job application, including preparing fixtures, tooling, and work pieces according to specifications.
• Grind tooling to manufacturer and customer specifications, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and adherence to tool prints and requirements.
• Sort and organize tooling prior to and after production runs to maintain an efficient workflow and prevent mix-ups.
• Prepare and set up jobs to be run for each application, including reviewing blueprints, job travelers, and tool specifications.
• Clean and inspect machinery and tools regularly to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient operation.
• Inspect jobs after final operation using appropriate measuring tools to verify dimensions, surface finish, and overall quality.
• Identify and respond to commonly occurring problems and situations using established standards, procedures, and precedents.
• Visually inspect tools for bad grinds, chips, or defects using eye loupes and magnifiers, and take corrective action as needed.
• Apply knowledge of materials, tooling types, and machine capabilities (including Tru-Tech, cylindrical grinding machines, and manual grinding machines) to select appropriate setups and processes.
• Use blueprints and technical drawings to determine dimensions, tolerances, and required operations for each job.
• Use micrometers, verniers, radius gauges, and other precision measuring instruments to perform in-process and final inspections.
• Select and apply the correct grinding wheel for each job based on material, geometry, and finish requirements.
• Apply math skills and tool geometry principles to set up and adjust machines for precise machining and grinding operations.
• Perform all tasks in accordance with ISO standards and internal quality procedures.
• Promote and support a strong safety culture by following safety practices and encouraging safe work habits among coworkers.
• Demonstrate and reinforce core behaviors that support a positive, collaborative, and professional work environment.

• Hands-on experience with tool grinding and CNC machine operation in a machine shop or similar production environment.
• Proficiency in setting up and operating grinders, including Tru-Tech and cylindrical grinding machines, as well as manual grinding machines.
• Knowledge of material and tooling types and how they affect grinding and machining processes.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings.
• Ability to recognize bad grinds, chips, and defects in tools using eye loupes and magnifiers.
• Proficiency in using precision measuring instruments such as micrometers, vernier calipers, and radius gauges.
• Understanding of grinding wheel selection and the ability to choose the correct wheel for each job.
• Competence in applying math skills and tool geometry to setup and machining operations.
• Experience with machining operations including lathe, mill, and general machine operation.
• Ability to follow ISO procedures and work within a documented quality system.
• Capability to lift and move up to 50 pounds regularly and perform physical tasks such as standing, walking, reaching, and handling tools and equipment.
• Ability to use computers and digital tools to access blueprints and job information.

• Experience working in a production machine shop environment with grinding, machining, and inspection responsibilities.
• Familiarity with CNC machine operation, including setup and running of CNC grinding or machining equipment.
• Comfort using digital devices such as tablets or iPads to access blueprints and work instructions.
• Strong attention to detail and quality focus in all machining and grinding operations.
• Effective problem-solving skills when addressing common machine, tooling, or quality issues.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a small team environment while maintaining a professional demeanor.

You will join a small, close-knit team where your contributions are visible and valued, and where collaboration and mutual support are part of daily work life. You will use modern tools, including a dedicated iPad for accessing blueprints and job information, helping you work efficiently and stay organized. The organization supports a friendly, community-oriented culture, highlighted by monthly family-style lunches that encourage connection and camaraderie.

You will also gain exposure to high-profile, aerospace-related work, giving you the opportunity to build skills and experience on challenging and meaningful projects.

The role is based in a…