What are the responsibilities and job description for the CNC Machine Honing Set Up Operator position at Horst Engineering and Manufacturing and Careers?
Job Summary
The Honing Operator is responsible for setting up and operating honing equipment to produce precision-finished internal or external surfaces on metal components used in aerospace applications. This role ensures parts meet tight tolerances, surface finish requirements, and customer specifications by performing accurate measurements, equipment adjustments, and quality checks throughout production. The operator works closely with the Manufacturing Supervisor and team members to support daily workflow and maintain consistent production output.
Key Responsibilities
Machine Operation & Setup
Set up and operate honing machines to finish bores, cylinders, bushings, and other precision components according to work instructions, operation sheets, and blueprints.
Secure workpieces manually or with lifting devices, ensuring proper alignment and fixturing.
Adjust machine controls—feed rate, spindle speed, stroke length, and abrasive expansion—to achieve required dimensions and surface finishes.
Start machines and monitor operation, making tool or process adjustments as needed.
Assist with basic setup or work closely with the Honing Job Setter on more complex runs.
Quality & Inspection
Perform in-process and final inspections using micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, air gauges, fixed gauges, and surface finish comparators.
Verify part dimensions and ensure compliance with drawings, specifications, and customer requirements.
Identify out-of-tolerance conditions and perform corrective actions or escalate to supervision/engineering.
Tooling & Maintenance
Replace or adjust honing stones, mandrels, guides, and other tooling components.
Perform basic machine cleaning and preventive maintenance to keep equipment in good working condition.
Report machine issues or tooling concerns to the Manufacturing Supervisor or Maintenance team promptly.
Documentation & Workflow
Accurately complete job travelers, operation sheets, quality documents, and any required digital entries.
Read and interpret blueprints, GD&T symbols, operation sheets, and written instructions.
Support production goals by collaborating with team members and assisting in related operations when needed.
Required Qualifications
High School diploma or equivalent.
1 year of experience in a precision machining or manufacturing environment (honing experience preferred but not required).
Ability to read and interpret blueprints, operation sheets, and measurement data.
Strong mechanical aptitude and familiarity with machining practices.
Demonstrated ability to use precision measurement tools (calipers, micrometers, bore gauges, etc.).
Quality-minded with strong attention to detail and willingness to learn new skills and cross-train.
Must be able to lift up to 40 lbs., stand for extended periods, and perform repetitive tasks.
Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug screen per company policy.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with Sunnen, Nagel, or similar honing machines.
Aerospace manufacturing or tight-tolerance machining experience.
Knowledge of GD&T and surface finish requirements.
Experience honing stainless steel, titanium, nickel alloys, aluminum, or other aerospace materials.