Description
Job Title: Multi-Spindle Screw Machine Operator
Department: Production
Reports To: Production Supervisor & Machining Manager
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Level I -Multi-Spindle Operator Trainee
Blueprints/Print Reading:
- Read basic prints: title block, simple dimensions, +- tolerances.
- Identify basic features (radius, chamfer, thread notes).
- Understand part orientation and match-up with sample parts.
Gauging:
- Use calipers, 0-1” micrometers, go/no-go gauges, thread plug/ring gauges.
- Perform visual checks for burrs, surface finish, and part completeness.
- Record results on check sheets and follow stop-and-notify rules.
Core Responsibilities:
- Load bar stock on blanks and unload completed parts.
- Monitor machine cycle, feed, and part pickoff.
- Identify abnormal sounds or vibration and alert setup/maintenance.
- Maintain clean, 5-S-compliant work area.
Basic Maintenance:
- Clean chips and oil buildup; wipe down machine.
- Empty chip pans/trays.
- Check coolant/oil levels and refill as trained.
- Report leaks or irregular machine behavior immediately.
Level II – Multi-Spindle Machine Operator
Blueprints/Print Reading:
- Read more detailed prints including section views and detail callouts.
- Understand basic GD&T (true position, concentricity, runout).
- Identify critical-to-quality dimensions and tolerances.
Gauging:
- Use micrometers, snap gauges, dial bore gages, depth gages, optical comparator (basic checks).
- Know how to master gauges and check for repeatability.
- Record SPC data and respond to out-of-control trends as instructed.
Core Responsibilities:
- Operate multiple multi-spindle machines independently.
- Make minor adjustments (feeds/speeds, cam followers tension, collet tension).
- Change inserts, reamers, taps, drills, and other standard tooling.
- Follow control plans, inspection frequencies, and tagging procedures.
Basic Maintenance:
- Perform daily/weekly operator PM (lubrication checks, coolant checks, chip removal).
- Clean and re-seat collets and checking areas.
- Replace basic wear items (inserts, springs, simple guides).
- Assist setup or maintenance with simple tasks.
Level III – Senior Multi-Spindle Operator/Setup Operator
Blueprints/Print Reading:
- Read complex prints and understand tolerance stack-ups.
- Apply GD&T to setup; datums, MMC/LMC, feature control frames.
- Use prints to determine tooling layout, station order, and critical operations.
Gauging:
- Proficient in: Dial bore gages with mastering, air gages, indicator stands & surface plate inspections, optical comparator overlays.
- Perform first-piece layout and verify critical dimensions.
- Correlate in-process gauging with CMM reports (when available).
Core Responsibilities:
- Perform complete setups on multi-spindle screw machines.
- Set cams, gears, attachments (shave tools, roller boxes, slotting, threading).
- Adjust pickoff timing, bar feed, and cross-slide operations.
- Troubleshoot size issues, chatter, chip control, and finish problems.
- Create/update setup sheets and tooling documentation.
Basic Maintenance:
- Swap/align collets, pads, feed fingers, and supports.
- Replace belts, simple timing adjustments, and lubrication line checks.
- Clean coolant systems, strainers, and chip conveyors.
- Inspect cam followers, clutches, and indexing components; report wear.
Level IV – Lead Multi-Spindle Technician/Advanced Setup
Blueprints/Print Reading:
- Perform detailed tolerance analysis for setup planning.
- Interpret complex GD&T including profile, perpendicularity, and runout control.
- Work with engineering on print interpretation and manufacturability issues.
Gauging:
- Lead gauge selection for new jobs.
- Proficient with air-gage fixtures, multi-diameter bore gaging, indicator tramming setups.
- Conduct gage R&R reviews for key characteristics.
- Train other operators in correct gauge handling.
Core Responsibilities:
- Setup complex parts requiring tight tolerances, multi-operation timing, or specialty attachments.
- Optimize feeds, speeds, cam designs, and tool geometries.
- Lead root-cause analysis and corrective actions for scrap or downtime.
- Support engineering on tooling design and continuous improvement.
- Train Level I-III operators.
Basic Maintenance:
- Perform alignment checks; spindle runout, slide alignment, cross-slide squareness.
- Replace pumps, coolant lines, springs, guides, non-critical hydraulic components.
- Perform timing checks on spindles and indexers.
- Coordinate PM with maintenance teams and verify completion.
Level V- Multi-Spindle Master Technician
Blueprints/Print Reading:
- Expert in interpreting full GD&T frameworks and customer specification drawings.
- Perform full tolerance stack-ups and station-by-station capability planning.
- Approve process-to-print alignment and inspection strategies.
Gauging:
- Specify or design custom gauging (air gage heads, part-specific fixtures).
- Validate gauge linearity, stability, and correlation to CMM results.
- Set plan-level gauge standards and calibration intervals.
- Troubleshoot complex measurement discrepancies across shifts/machines.
Core Responsibilities:
- Lead new job launches, machine upgrades, and process designs.
- Design or approve full tool layouts and cycle balancing.
- Mentor set up technicians and operators at all levels.
- Work with engineering, tooling vendors, or OEMs on part/process improvements.
Basic Maintenance:
- Oversee critical baseline tasks; spindle checks, machine alignment, indexing accuracy.
- Diagnose mechanical/hydraulic/electrical interaction issues and assist maintenance.
- Validate preventive maintenance compliance and machine capability baselines.
- Ensure machines are maintained to support capability and throughput requirements.
Requirements
Please see Job Description. Level will be based on the experience you bring to the role!