Job Description: Machine Operator (Metal Fabrication & Machining)

Job Title: Machine Operator – Metal Fabrication

Department: Production / Operations

Position Type: Full-Time

Location: On-Site

Position Overview

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Machine Operator to join our custom metal fabrication team. In this role, you will set up and operate various machinery—including metal spinning lathes, CNC laser cutters, machining equipment, and standard fabrication tools—to produce high-quality metal parts according to engineering blueprints and job specifications.

Key Responsibilities

Machine Operation & Setup

Metal Spinning: Set up and operate manual or CNC spinning lathes to form sheet metal into cylindrical and conical shapes.
Laser Cutting: Load programs, set parameters, and operate CNC laser cutting systems; monitor cut quality and perform lens/nozzle checks.
Machining: Set up and run mills, lathes, or CNC equipment to perform drilling, tapping, boring, and precision finishing.
Fabrication Support: Perform complementary sheet metal fabrication tasks, including deburring, press brake bending, grinding, and raw material preparation.

Quality & Production

Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and job router instructions.
Conduct first-piece and in-process quality inspections using calipers, micrometers, height gauges, and specialized templates.
Maintain strict dimensional tolerances and report non-conforming materials promptly.
Keep detailed daily logs of production counts, setup times, and material usage.

Maintenance & Safety

Perform routine preventative maintenance (lubrication, fluid checks, debris clearing) on assigned machinery.
Strictly adhere to all safety guidelines, PPE requirements, and OSHA standard operating procedures.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work space.

Qualifications & Skills

Required

Experience: 2+ years operating metalworking or CNC machinery (laser cutters, mills/lathes, press brakes, or spinning lathes).
Blueprint Reading: Ability to interpret engineering drawings, standard dimensions, and tolerances (GD&T knowledge preferred).
Measurement Tools: Proficiency with precision instruments (calipers, micrometers, dial indicators).
Physical Capability: Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, stand for extended periods, and perform repetitive hand movements.
Work Ethic: Strong mechanical aptitude, high attention to detail, and a focus on safety.

Preferred / Bonus

Hands-on experience specifically with CNC metal spinning or manual lathe spinning.
Basic understanding of CNC programming adjustment (G-code / M-code).
Experience handling standard metals (stainless steel, aluminum, carbon steel, specialty alloys).
Overhead crane or forklift operator certification.

Work Environment & Schedule

Environment: Industrial manufacturing setting. Exposure to heat, noise, dust, and moving machinery (PPE provided).
Schedule: Full-Time (Standard hours: 1st Shift 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday).

Benefits

Competitive hourly rate commensurate with experience
Health, dental, and vision insurance options.
401(k) retirement plan with company match.
Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid holidays.
Career advancement and cross-training opportunities across multiple manufacturing processes.

Physical Requirements

Lifting & Carrying: Frequently lift, push, pull, and move raw materials, fixtures, and finished parts weighing up to 50 lbs independently; assist with team lifts or mechanical hoists for heavier components.
Mobility & Stamina: Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, crouch, kneel, and reach overhead continuously throughout an 8 to 10-hour shift.
Manual Dexterity: Fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination required for aligning metal sheets, manipulating hand spinning tools, securing small parts, operating machinery controls, and using precision measuring instruments (calipers, micrometers).
Visual Acuity: Strong visual depth perception and color vision to inspect weld seams, laser cut quality, surface finishes, and perform close-range dimensional measurements.
Movement: Frequent twisting, bending at the waist, reaching, pulling, and pushing while operating metal spinning equipment, loading laser cutter beds, or maneuvering stock.

Pay: From $17.00 per hour

Work Location: In person

Lewark Metal Spinning

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