Workshop - 1st Class Machinist

Summary: The 1st Class Machinist is responsible for setting up and operating a variety of machine tools to produce precision parts and instruments. This role involves fabricating, modifying, and repairing mechanical instruments, as well as maintaining and repairing industrial machinery. The 1st Class Machinist applies advanced knowledge of mechanics, machining processes, and shop mathematics to ensure high-quality results. 

Key Job Responsibilities: 

• Set up, adjust, and operate a wide range of basic and specialized machine tools, including lathes, milling machines, shapers, and grinders, to perform precision machining operations. 

• Machine parts to exact specifications, monitor feed and speed during the machining process, and make adjustments as needed to ensure optimal performance and accuracy. 

• Set up, position and secure workpieces, cutting tools, and attachments in machines.  

• Repair, install, adjust, and maintain industrial production and processing machinery, including refinery and pipeline distribution systems. Ensure machines are operating at peak efficiency. 

• Measure, examine, and test completed units to detect defects and ensure they meet specifications. Use precision instruments to verify accuracy and quality. 

• Set controls to regulate the machining process, ensuring that all operations are performed safely and according to specifications. 

• Safely lift, position, and secure metal stock and workpieces manually or using hoists. Operate forklifts, overhead cranes, and jib cranes to maneuver parts and equipment as needed. 

• Perform other related tasks as assigned, contributing to the overall efficiency and success of the machine shop. 

Education: 

• Associate’s Degree in a Mechanical field from a 2-year college is preferred but not required. 

• High school diploma or equivalent with 4-6 years of relevant experience and/or training. 

Experience/Qualifications/Skills: 

• Strong knowledge and experience in using precision measuring tools, understanding materials and safety protocols, job planning, and working with rotating equipment required.  

• Experience in disassembling and reassembling complex assemblies as a project lead. 

• Understanding of equipment operational requirements and experience in crane, rigging, and heavy lift procedures. 

• Proficiency in setting up, programming, and running conversational CNC machinery. 

• Experience with coordinate measuring machines (CMM). 

• Familiarity with portable machine tools such as mag base drills and boring bars. 

• Experience with SAP or other ERP systems.  

Physical Requirements: 

This position primarily involves remaining in one location for extended periods to handle, maneuver, and position parts and equipment, including reaching to adjust or move components. The role may require accessing elevated platforms to handle or position equipment. Close vision (20 inches or less) is essential for tasks, and the ability to lift up to 50 pounds is required. The role may also involve assisting with other tasks that require working in confined spaces. Additionally, employees may be exposed to challenging environmental conditions, including extreme heat, cold, wind, dust, and dirt, as well as loud noise from equipment such as grinders, drills, and hammers.

Competencies: 

• Team Oriented. Creates productive relationships and works with leadership team to achieve common goals. 

• Strong planning and organization skills to make effective use of resources.  

• Coaching and teaching skills - train other employees in order to increase their knowledge and capabilities. 

• Excellent process orientated problem solving skills with ability to coach others in systematic problem solving.  

• Extremely focused on quality outcomes. Able to deliver quality results and coordinate the services on a timely basis.  

• Contribute to the team to understand the importance of safety and quality reasoning and ensure 100% compliance with testing the solutions.  

• Creates strong awareness of quality and safety, using practical examples to illustrate why a small error in craftsmanship or while running the equipment can lead to a catastrophic accident in the shop or at the customers site. 

• All employees share the responsibility for encouraging a proactive safety culture through demonstration of being a positive role model, proper safety behaviors and safe work practices.