About this role
Manual Machinist – Mills & Lathes
Location: Richmond, VA
Job Type: Contract-to-Hire
Shifts: 1st and 2nd Shift
Starting Pay: $28.00/hour; higher pay may be available depending on experience
Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced Manual Machinist to set up and operate manual mills and lathes to produce precision components. This is a hands-on machining role, not a machine operator position. The ideal candidate can independently interpret technical drawings, select tooling, make machine adjustments, and ensure finished parts meet required specifications and tolerances.
Key Responsibilities
- Review work orders, blueprints, engineering drawings, material specifications, and machining requirements.
- Interpret geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T), orthographic drawings, and reference points.
- Set up and operate manual mills and lathes, including selecting and installing tools, attachments, chucks, collets, bushings, cams, gears, and stops.
- Indicate vises, tram machine heads, and adjust machine settings as needed.
- Perform machining operations such as drilling, grooving, turning, facing, knurling, thread chasing, and cutting.
- Calculate machining requirements using basic math, geometry, and trigonometry.
- Program mills and lathes when required by entering reference points, tool offsets, compensation, and other machining parameters.
- Prove out part programs and verify machine settings before production.
- Measure and inspect first-run parts and sample workpieces to confirm dimensions and tolerances.
- Monitor machining processes, troubleshoot issues, and make adjustments to maintain quality.
- Sharpen or replace worn tooling and modify machine controls or programs when necessary.
- Follow quality assurance procedures and applicable safety requirements.
- Perform preventive maintenance and troubleshoot equipment issues in accordance with manufacturer instructions.
- Report equipment malfunctions and coordinate repairs as needed.
- Document work activities, communicate shift updates, and report ongoing production needs.
- Stay current with machining techniques through technical publications and training.
- Take ownership of assigned work and contribute to process improvements.
Qualifications
- CNC certification required.
- CNC programming experience is a plus.
- Strong manufacturing and machining background.
- Experience setting up and operating manual mills and lathes.
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and GD&T.
- Knowledge of machining processes, tooling, controls, and instrumentation.
- Strong technical, conceptual, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to communicate effectively in English.
- Attention to detail, sound judgment, and a commitment to quality.
- Ability to identify process improvement opportunities.
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
- Manufacturing facility environment with approximately 95% indoor and 5% outdoor work.
- Facility is heated during winter but does not have air conditioning during summer.
- Ability to stand on concrete floors for at least eight hours per shift.
- Frequent standing, bending, kneeling, and squatting may be required.
- Work areas may be noisy, particularly near grinding or machine testing operations. Earplugs are provided when needed.
Tools & Safety Requirements
Employees must provide their own basic hand tools, including:
- Box, open-end, and socket wrench sets
- Allen wrench set
- Screwdriver set
- Tap handles
- Pliers
- Combination square
- 9-inch level
- Tape measure
Both English and metric tool sets are recommended. A lockable toolbox is also recommended.
Required personal protective equipment and clothing:
- Safety glasses
- Steel-toed safety shoes
- Long pants
- A shirt with sleeves (short sleeves are acceptable)
Apply Today!
If you have hands-on machining experience, strong technical skills, and a commitment to producing accurate, high-quality parts, we encourage you to apply for this opportunity.