1st Shift Entry Level Machinist

FORMA-FAB METALS, INC; Mebane (NC); On-site; USD 52,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

FORMA-FAB METALS, INC is seeking an experienced Machinist to program, load, operate, and monitor NC machines, fabricate parts, and perform secondary operations as required. Strong blueprint reading, attention to detail, and safety awareness are essential for maintaining quality and efficient production.

Responsibilities include planning machining processes, setting up mills and lathes, verifying first-run pieces, and maintaining logs.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• 4–5 years of CNC experience.
• Conceptual skills and strong communication.
• Mechanical/technical skills with CAD/CAM tech.
• Attention to detail; problem solving; time management.
• Basic computer skills and reliable attendance; overtime may be required.

Responsibilities

• Plan machining processes from orders, drawings, and specs.
• Program mills and lathes with tool data and offsets.
• Set up machines, load stock, and verify first-run parts.
• Maintain quality by measuring and adjusting as needed.
• Document actions and communicate production needs across shifts.

Skills

Blueprint reading

Attention to detail

Time management

Communication

CAD/CAM technology

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

CNC mills and lathes

Job description

Monday through Thursday, 6:00 am - 4:30 pm, plus overtime as needed

Position Summary:

The Machinist is responsible for programming, loading, operating, and monitoring Numerical Control (NC) machines to ensure efficient and precise production. This role involves fabricating parts, running production lots, performing hardware insertion, and executing spot welding as required. Proficiency in manual machining is also essential for completing custom work or secondary operations not suitable for automated equipment. A strong attention to detail and the ability to accurately read and interpret blueprints are critical for maintaining high-quality standards. Effective communication with team members regarding production runs is necessary. The Machinist is expected to maintain a safe, organized, and clean work environment in accordance with company policies and safety regulations.

Essential functions:

• Plan machining process by studying work orders, blueprints, engineering plans, materials, specifications, orthographic drawings, locations of surfaces, and machining parameters; interpreting geometric dimensions and tolerances
• Plan stock inventory by checking stock to determine the amount available; verifying needed stock, following up on orders
• Program mills and lathes by entering instructions, including zero and reference points; setting tool registers, offsets, compensation, and conditional switches; calculating requirements, including basic math, geometry, and trigonometry; and providing part programs
• Set up mills and lathes by installing and adjusting three and four-jaw chucks, tools, attachments, collets, bushings, cams, gears, stops, and stock pushers; indicating vices; tramming heads
• Load feed mechanism by lifting stock into position
• Verify settings by measuring positions first-run part and sample work pieces; adhering to standards
• Maintain specifications by observing drilling, grooving, and cutting, including turning, facing, knurling, and thread chasing operations; taking measurements; detecting malfunctions; troubleshooting processes; adjusting and reprogramming controls; sharpening and replacing worn tools; adhering to quality assurance procedures and processes
• Maintain safe operations by adhering to safety procedures and regulations
• Maintain equipment by completing preventive maintenance requirements; following manufacturer's instructions; troubleshooting malfunctions; calling for repairs
• Maintain continuity among work shifts by documenting and communicating actions, irregularities, and continuing needs
• Document actions by completing production and quality logs
• Accomplish organizational goals by accepting ownership for accomplishing new and different requests; exploring opportunities to add value to job accomplishments
• Input and maintain data in the ERP computer system
• Assist in other areas as needed

Requirements:

• High School Diploma or GED
• 4-5 years of CNC experience
• Conceptual Skills
• Communication proficiency
• Mechanical and Technical skills-machines controlled by computers will need operators who understand CAD/CAM technology
• Attention to detail
• Problem-solving skills
• Time Management
• Basic Computer Skills
• Maintain excellent attendance, and expected to work overtime if needed.

Environmental Conditions:

• Humidity level may be elevated during the summer months
• Exposure to loud noise
• Exposed to fumes or airborne particles, moving mechanical parts, and vibration

Physical Demands:

• Able to stand on your feet for at least eight hours a day
• Requires frequent lifting, pushing, and pulling objects that are 50 pounds or heavier
• Required to walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms, and talk or hear
• This is a 40-hour-a-week job with the potential for overtime