Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Manual Machinist

🎯 Role Definition

We are actively seeking a highly skilled and meticulous Manual Machinist to join our dynamic manufacturing team. In this pivotal role, you will be the artisan of our operations, responsible for creating high-precision components from raw materials using a variety of conventional machine tools. You will translate complex engineering drawings into tangible, functional parts that meet the most stringent quality standards. This position is perfect for a problem-solver who thrives in a hands-on environment and takes immense pride in their craftsmanship, working on one-of-a-kind prototypes, small-batch production runs, and critical repair work.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Machinist Apprentice
Machine Operator
Trade School Graduate

Advancement To:

CNC Machinist / Programmer
Lead Machinist / Shop Foreman
Tool and Die Maker

Lateral Moves:

Quality Control Inspector
Maintenance Machinist

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Set up, operate, and maintain conventional manual lathes (e.g., engine lathes) to perform complex machining operations including turning, facing, threading, and boring.
Independently configure and operate manual milling machines (e.g., Bridgeport-style) to create features such as slots, holes, and contours on various workpieces.
Read and interpret complex engineering blueprints, technical drawings, and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) specifications to determine machining requirements.
Machine parts to extremely tight tolerances (+/- 0.0005 inches or better), ensuring all dimensions and surface finishes meet or exceed specified requirements.
Select, align, and secure holding fixtures, cutting tools, attachments, accessories, and materials onto manual machines.
Calculate and set machine controls to regulate machining factors such as speed, feed, coolant flow, and depth and angle of cut.
Perform first-article and in-process quality inspections using a wide range of precision measuring instruments, including micrometers, calipers, height gauges, and bore gauges.
Work with a diverse range of materials, including but not limited to stainless steel, aluminum, titanium, Inconel, and various plastics, understanding their unique machining properties.
Troubleshoot machining issues, diagnose problems with machine operation or part quality, and make necessary adjustments to tooling or machine settings.
Manufacture new or modified parts for R&D projects, prototypes, and custom tooling, often working with minimal supervision from sketches or verbal instructions.
Execute repair work on existing machinery components, which may involve reverse-engineering a broken part to create a functional replacement.
Operate surface grinders, cylindrical grinders, and other grinding equipment to achieve precise dimensions and fine surface finishes.
Utilize shop mathematics, including trigonometry and geometry, to perform complex calculations for setups and machining operations.
Perform routine and preventative maintenance on manual machines, such as lubrication and cleaning, to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Sharpen and maintain cutting tools, ensuring they are in optimal condition for producing high-quality parts.
Deburr, polish, and finish machined parts using hand tools and other finishing equipment to meet aesthetic and functional standards.
Collaborate with engineers, designers, and CNC programmers to provide feedback on part manufacturability and suggest design improvements.
Document all machining processes, setup sheets, and inspection results accurately to ensure repeatability and traceability.
Adhere strictly to all company safety protocols and maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area (5S principles).
Plan the sequence of machining operations for a given part to maximize efficiency and ensure all features can be created accurately.
Fabricate custom jigs, fixtures, and holding devices required to support unique or complex machining setups.
Verify the dimensions and alignment of assembled parts using specialized measuring tools to ensure proper fit and function.

Secondary Functions

Mentor and provide guidance to apprentices and less experienced machine operators.
Assist with material handling, inventory management, and ordering of shop supplies and raw stock.
Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and contribute ideas for enhancing shop efficiency and quality.
Support the maintenance team with more complex machine repairs and alignments when required.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Proficiency in Manual Lathe operation (turning, threading, boring)
Expertise in Manual Milling (Bridgeport-style) operations
Advanced Blueprint Reading and interpretation of technical drawings
Strong understanding and application of Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T)
Precision Measurement and Inspection (micrometers, calipers, indicators, bore gauges)
Surface and Cylindrical Grinding operations
Comprehensive knowledge of cutting tools, speeds, and feeds for various materials
Strong shop math skills, including trigonometry and geometry
Ability to set up and machine complex parts with tight tolerances
Knowledge of material properties (metals, alloys, plastics)
Fixture and tool making
Routine machine tool maintenance

Soft Skills

Exceptional Attention to Detail and Precision
Strong Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking Abilities
Independent Work Ethic and Self-Motivation
Effective Communication and Teamwork Skills
Time Management and ability to prioritize tasks
Adaptability to changing priorities and project requirements

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED

Preferred Education:

Journeyman Machinist certification, Technical/Vocational school degree in Machine Tool Technology, or completed Apprenticeship program.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Machine Tool Technology
Industrial Mechanics
Manufacturing Engineering Technology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

3-10+ years of hands-on experience as a Manual Machinist in a job shop or manufacturing environment.

Preferred:

Experience in specific sectors such as aerospace, medical device manufacturing, R&D, or tool and die is highly desirable.