What are the responsibilities and job description for the Manual Machinist position at ARMSTRONG KOVER KWICK?
POSITION SUMMARY
This position is built for a hands-on machinist who takes pride in traditional trade skills, thrives on challenging setups, and has the grit to work large-scale components where experience, judgment, and attention to detail matter more than automation.
Our Machinists set up and operate conventional metalworking equipment, including 6-meter Poreba manual lathes, to manufacture and repair precision industrial rolls, cylindrical shafts, and journals. They independently perform precision machining, measurement, and inspection, solving complex machining challenges with minimal supervision. CNC cross-training is available but is not required. Our products include solid and hollow shaft configurations, with lengths up to 5,800 mm (19 ft), interference-fit assemblies and, when qualified, welding.
Success in this role is rooted in strong manual machining fundamentals, craftsmanship, and a willingness to tackle tough work.
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
- Independently set up and operate two large manual metalworking lathes, including approximately 6meter Poreba lathes, as well as conventional milling equipment.
- Machine solid and hollow shafts, roll bodies, journals and related components; perform turning, facing, boring, drilling, threading and milling to specified tolerances.
- Interpret engineering drawings, job travelers, inch/metric dimensions and geometric tolerances; select appropriate workholding, tooling, cutting speeds and feeds.
- Prepare mating surfaces and dimensional fits for interferencefitting roll assemblies; and complete work under established procedures and training.
- Measure and verify diameters, bearing fits, concentricity and runout using micrometers, calipers, dial indicators and other precision instruments.
- Safely load/unload and position heavy workpieces using a forklift and approved lifting attachments; follow machine guarding, lockout and other applicable safety procedures.
- Maintain production and inspection records; perform routine machine care, identify equipment issues and coordinate priorities with the Team Lead and Production Supervisor.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Three or more years of conventional machining experience, or equivalent demonstrated ability; independent setup and operation of manual lathes is essential.
- Experience with conventional milling, precision measurement, blueprint reading and machining to specified tolerances.
- Ability to safely handle large workpieces and follow written work instructions, quality requirements and established safety procedures.
- High school diploma or equivalent; ability to complete NCCM forklift and jobspecific equipment and safety training.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Technical degree, apprenticeship, or formal training in Machining, Tool & Die, or a related skilled trade.
- Experience operating manual lathes and other conventional machining equipment in a heavy industrial environment.
- Experience machining large rolls, shafts, journals, and other precision components while maintaining tight tolerances.
- Welding experience, including journal welding or comparable industrial component welding, is preferred.
- Strong ability to read blueprints, perform precision measurements, and independently troubleshoot machining setups.
- Demonstrated craftsmanship, mechanical aptitude, and a strong work ethic with a willingness to tackle challenging, handson machining work.
SCHEDULE, WORKING CONDITIONS & DEVELOPMENT
1st Shift, Monday–Friday, 7:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Overtime as needed.
Salary : $30 - $38