5-Axis CNC Machinist - 1st Shift (Mastercam / Heidenhain)

American Rheinmetall

Lapeer (MI)

On-site

USD 50,000 - 70,000

Full time

14 days+

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Benefits offered by this job

Medical Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

401(k)

Short-Term Disability

Long-Term Disability

Sign-on bonus opportunities

Quarterly bonus opportunities

Job summary

American Rheinmetall in Lapeer, MI is seeking an experienced 5-axis machinist to join its expanding team. The role involves operating large CNC machining centers and solving complex machining challenges. Ideal candidates will have 5+ years of CNC experience, including 2 years with Mastercam.

The position offers a competitive hourly rate, benefits, and opportunities for career advancement and bonuses.

Qualifications

5+ years of CNC machining experience required.
Minimum 2 years of experience with Mastercam.
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

Responsibilities

Set up and operate large-format 5-axis CNC machining centers.
Program and optimize machining operations using Mastercam.
Monitor machining operations and maintain quality.

Skills

CNC machining experience

Mastercam experience

Blueprint reading

Troubleshooting abilities

Communication skills

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Zimmermann Machining Centers

Apec Machining Centers

FPT Machining Centers

Mecof Machining Centers

Mastercam

Plex ERP

Job description

At a Glance

Company: American Rheinmetall
Location: Lapeer, MI (On-Site)
Job Type: Full-Time
Pay Range: Competitive Hourly Rate (DOE)
Shift: 1st Shift
Overtime: Available as Needed
Experience Level: Senior (5+ Years)
Work Authorization: Must be able to meet requirements for employment in a U.S. defense manufacturing environment

Why This Role Exists

American Rheinmetall continues expanding its advanced machining capabilities at its Lapeer, Michigan facility to support growing defense and commercial manufacturing programs.

This position plays a key role in producing large, complex machined components used in military vehicle systems, fabricated structures, armored products, and mission‑critical applications. We are seeking an experienced 5‑axis machinist who enjoys solving complex machining challenges and wants to be part of a rapidly growing manufacturing operation.

The Work You’ll Be Doing

Set up and operate large-format 5-axis CNC machining centers
Program and optimize machining operations using Mastercam
Interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, specifications, and GD&T requirements
Establish tooling, offsets, workholding, and compensation
Prove out programs and perform first-piece inspections
Align and locate large workpieces using stock models and tooling balls
Fixture and machine large weldments, castings, forgings, and structural components
Monitor machining operations and make adjustments to maintain quality and efficiency
Troubleshoot tooling, machine, and process issues through root‑cause analysis
Complete production and quality documentation in Plex ERP
Collaborate with engineering, quality, programming, and materials teams
Support TPM and preventative maintenance initiatives
Maintain compliance with quality, safety, and environmental standards

Machines, Controls & Software

Machines

Zimmermann 5-Axis Machining Centers
Apec 5-Axis Machining Centers
FPT Machining Centers
Mecof Machining Centers

Controls

Heidenhain
Fidia

CAM Software

Mastercam

ERP

Plex

Materials You’ll Work With

Steel
Alloy Steel
Weldments
Castings
Forgings
Plate Material
Tubing
Defense‑grade structural materials

What We’re Looking For

Required

High school diploma or GED
5+ years of CNC machining experience
Minimum 2 years of Mastercam experience
Experience with complex 5‑axis machining applications
Ability to read blueprints and interpret GD&T
Strong understanding of tooling, workholding, offsets, and setup strategies
Knowledge of ISO 9001 and/or AS9100 quality systems
Understanding of 5S manufacturing practices
Strong troubleshooting and problem‑solving abilities
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
Reliable attendance and strong communication skills

Preferred

Experience with Zimmermann, Apec, FPT, or Mecof machining centers
Experience with Heidenhain controls
Experience with Fidia controls
Crane operation experience
Knowledge of ISO 14001 Environmental Management Systems
Experience in defense, aerospace, heavy equipment, or large‑part machining environments

Why Machinists Like Working Here