About this role
Position Summary
We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Industrial Machinist to support our plastics manufacturing facility. In this role, you will set up, operate, and maintain conventional and CNC machine tools to fabricate, modify, and repair precision metal components, molds, dies, and machinery parts used in plastic processing (e.g., injection molding, extrusion, blow molding). Your work will ensure minimal production downtime, maintain tight tolerances, and support continuous equipment efficiency.
Key Responsibilities
Machining & Fabrication
Set up and operate manual and CNC machinery (milling machines, lathes, surface grinders, drill presses, band saws, and EDM equipment).
Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, CAD/CAM models, and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) specifications.
Fabricate replacement parts, custom fixtures, tooling, and machine components to exact specifications and tight tolerances (often within ±0.001").
Perform precision measurements using micrometers, calipers, height gauges, dial indicators, and CMM equipment.
Mold & Tooling Support
Repair, modify, and perform preventative maintenance on injection molds, extrusion dies, core pins, and insert tooling.
Perform precision polishing, deburring, and fitting of mold components to eliminate parting line flash and cosmetic defects in finished plastic products.
Troubleshoot mechanical wear, alignment issues, and tooling damage on processing lines.
Maintenance & Continuous Improvement
Partner with maintenance technicians and process engineers to diagnose mechanical equipment failures and optimize machine performance.
Select appropriate materials (e.g., tool steels, stainless steel, aluminum, brass, or engineering plastics) and cutting tools for specific job requirements.
Maintain clean, organized work areas (5S principles) and follow preventative maintenance schedules for machine shop equipment.
Qualifications & Skills
Required:
Education: High school diploma, GED, or equivalent vocational training. Completion of a recognized machinist apprenticeship program or Trade/Technical degree preferred.
Experience: 3+ years of machinist experience in an industrial manufacturing environment (experience in plastics injection molding, blow molding, or extrusion tooling strongly preferred).
Technical Proficiency:
Proficiency in manual machining (lathe, vertical mill, grinder).
Working knowledge of CNC controls (Fanuc, Haas, Mazak, etc.) and basic G-code programming/editing.
Strong ability to read and interpret complex engineering prints, GD&T, and technical manuals.
Experience working with tool steels (e.g., P20, H13, S7, D2) and aluminum mold components.
Math & Spatial Reasoning: Practical shop math, trigonometry, and precision measuring skills.
Physical Requirements & Working Conditions:
Ability to stand, bend, stoop, and reach for extended periods.
Ability to regularly lift up to 50 lbs unassisted.
Comfortable working in a plant environment with exposure to heat, noise, dust, and lubricants (safety PPE required and provided).
Compensation / Pay Rate (Up to): $35.00 - $45.00