Machinist (Setup)

VDG (Van der Graaf) is a well-established industry leader in the manufacturing of drum motors for all types of belt conveyor applications. Our high-quality power transmission equipment is used in a wide range of industries, including food processing, pharmaceutical, mining, and transportation. Our conveyor drives range in size from 0.25 HP to 500 HP.

We are currently seeking qualified Machinist II to join our growing team.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Machinist II is responsible for the independent setup and operation of CNC and conventional machine tools for released production work. This position completes documented setups, selects and installs standard tooling and work holding, performs first-piece verification, makes authorized program adjustments, and identifies and resolves routine setup, tooling, offset, and work holding issues with minimal supervision.

WORK SCHEDULE: Monday to Friday 7:30am to 4:00pm

KEY RESPONSILITIES:

Machine Setup and Operation:

• Independently set up and operate CNC lathes, mills, grinders, and other qualified machine tools using approved setup documentation and released programs.
• Interpret engineering blueprints, work orders, routings, and technical drawings, including tolerances, geometry, surface finishes, and other specifications.
• Select and install standard tooling, fixtures, work holding, and machine parameters required for released jobs.
• Set, adjust, and verify tools, fixtures, offsets, and cutting parameters and bring a documented setup from setup sheet to stable production.
• Perform first-piece setup verification and submit parts for required approval in accordance with VDG quality procedures.
• Read CNC programs and make authorized or bounded G-code/M-code edits necessary to correct routine production conditions.
• Diagnose and correct common tooling, offset, work holding, dimensional, and machine-process issues.
• Monitor machining performance and adjust feeds, speeds, offsets, or standard tooling within established authority.
• Perform routine preventative maintenance and approved minor recovery activities.
• Support Machinist I employees by answering routine technical questions and demonstrating established setup and operating practices.

Quality Assurance:

• Independently perform in-process and finished-part inspections and maintain required inspection records.
• Use precision measuring equipment to verify dimensions and tolerances and identify the likely source of routine dimensional variation.
• Verify setup and first-piece results against applicable drawings and process requirements before continuing production, subject to required Quality approval.
• Document and escalate nonconforming conditions that cannot be corrected within established authority.

Health and Safety Compliance:

• Comply with all applicable health and safety requirements, safe work procedures, and machine-specific safety practices.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment and report unsafe conditions, equipment defects, or hazards promptly.

Other:

• Perform other duties as assigned.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Demonstrated CNC machining experience with independent machine setup and operation; progression is based on demonstrated capability rather than years of service alone.
• Ability to independently complete documented setups on assigned/qualified machine families.
• Ability to read, understand, and make authorized modifications to CNC programs using G-code/M-code.
• Strong knowledge of turning, milling, grinding, tooling, work holding, and machining fundamentals applicable to assigned equipment.
• Proficiency in blueprint interpretation and use of precision measuring instruments.
• Ability to troubleshoot routine setup, tooling, offset, and process problems with minimal supervision.
• Ability to perform accurate first piece and in-process inspection and maintain required records.
• Strong attention to detail, communication, teamwork, time management, and production judgment.
• Ability to lift and position components up to 50 lbs. and stand for extended periods.
• Experience with gear-manufacturing machining is an asset.

Disclaimer

The above is a summary of the key responsibilities and duties of the Machinist (Setup) position. It is not an exhaustive list of all tasks associated with the role. Responsibilities may be amended, added to, or changed by the department manager to reflect evolving business needs.

We offer a competitive salary, company paid benefits, 401(K) match-up, vacation/sick time and other perks.

Check us out at vandergraaf.com. Apply today!

About VDG

VDG is the leader in the design and manufacturing of high-quality, premium-efficiency drum motors for all types of belt conveyor applications, from food processing, packaging, warehousing, postal, parcel, and baggage handling to ship loading, power generation, mining, and aggregate.

The VDG Drum Motor is a one-component conveyor drive that has all drive components, including the electric motor, gear reducer, and bearings, enclosed inside the drive drum, increasing mechanical and electrical efficiency, optimizing space, and promoting operator safety.

Manufacturing in-house in the USA and Canada for 40 years, using cutting-edge production technology and automation, and with continuous improvements through R&D, VDG ensures product quality, short lead-times, and after-sales service.

VDG is an equal opportunity employer committed to an inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and selection process. Accommodation for candidates with disabilities will be provided in all parts of the hiring process. If such accommodation is required, applicants are requested to make their needs known in advance.

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Experience:

• CNC mill: 5 years (Preferred)
• CNC lathe: 5 years (Preferred)
• turning, milling, and grinding: 3 years (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Shelby Charter Township, MI 48315 (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $43,522 - $59,810