What are the responsibilities and job description for the Machinist (Plastic Fabrication / CNC & Manual) position at Design Engineering Solutions?
Machinist – CNC, Manual & Plastic Fabrication
Design Engineering Solutions is seeking an experienced, dependable Machinist to join our manufacturing team in Fairview, Tennessee. This position is responsible for setting up and operating CNC and manual machining equipment—including Haas mills and lathes—to manufacture precision plastic components and occasional light-metal parts.
The ideal candidate has journeyman-level machining experience, can work independently from technical drawings, and takes pride in producing accurate, high-quality parts. Experience machining engineered plastics is strongly preferred.
Key Responsibilities
- Set up and operate CNC mills, CNC lathes, and manual machining equipment.
- Manufacture precision components from plastics and light metals.
- Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, work instructions, and specifications.
- Perform machine setups, tool changes, offsets, and basic G-code edits.
- Select appropriate tooling, speeds, feeds, and machining methods for different materials.
- Use calipers, micrometers, gauges, and other precision instruments to verify dimensions and tolerances.
- Inspect completed parts and document results according to quality requirements.
- Identify and correct machining or quality issues during production.
- Perform routine equipment maintenance and maintain a clean, organized work area.
- Follow company procedures and all applicable workplace safety requirements.
- Collaborate with engineering and production personnel to improve quality, efficiency, and manufacturability.
- Assist with fabrication, assembly, and other production responsibilities when needed.
Required Qualifications
- Previous experience operating CNC and/or manual machining equipment.
- Ability to independently set up and operate machining equipment.
- Experience reading blueprints and interpreting tolerances and specifications.
- Proficiency with precision measuring instruments.
- Working knowledge of G-code, tooling, offsets, speeds, and feeds.
- Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
- Excellent attention to detail and commitment to quality.
- Ability to manage assignments independently and meet production deadlines.
- Ability to safely lift and handle materials, tooling, and completed components as required.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with Haas CNC mills or lathes.
- Experience machining engineered plastics and understanding how plastic materials respond during machining.
- CAD/CAM or CNC programming experience.
- Experience with small-batch, custom, or prototype manufacturing.
- Experience performing in-process and final quality inspections.
- Familiarity with ISO-style quality procedures or regulated manufacturing environments.
Compensation
Competitive hourly compensation based on machining experience, technical ability, and level of independence.
About Design Engineering Solutions
Design Engineering Solutions is a precision manufacturing company located in Fairview, Tennessee. We produce specialized components using CNC machining, manual machining, plastic fabrication, and related manufacturing processes. We value quality workmanship, reliability, problem-solving, and employees who take ownership of their work.
Design Engineering Solutions is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, experience, and business needs.
Design Engineering Solutions is unable to sponsor H-1B visas for this position. Candidates must already be authorized to work in the United States without employer sponsorship.
Pay: $16.00 - $22.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Experience:
- CNC milling machine: 3 years (Required)
Shift availability:
- Day Shift (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $16 - $22