5-Axis CNC Machinist - 2nd Shift (Mastercam / Heidenhain)
American Rheinmetall
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Benefits offered by this job
Job summary
American Rheinmetall in Lapeer, MI, is seeking an experienced 5-axis CNC machinist to support defense manufacturing programs. The role involves setting up and operating advanced machined components while ensuring quality and efficiency in production.
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years in CNC machining and 2 years in Mastercam programming. The company offers competitive pay, bonuses, and a strong culture of advancement.
Qualifications
- Minimum 5 years of CNC machining experience in a multi-axis environment.
- Minimum 2 years of Mastercam programming experience.
- Strong understanding of lean manufacturing principles.
Responsibilities
- Set up and operate large-format 5-axis CNC machining centers.
- Program and optimize machining operations using Mastercam.
- Monitor machining operations for quality and efficiency.
Skills
Education
Tools
Job description
Company: American Rheinmetall
Location: Lapeer, MI (On-Site)
Job Type: Full-Time
Pay Range: Competitive Hourly Rate (DOE)
Shift: 2nd Shift | Monday–Thursday | 4:30 PM – 2:30 AM
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
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American Rheinmetall continues to expand its advanced machining capabilities at its Lapeer, Michigan facility to support growing defense and commercial manufacturing programs.
This role plays a critical part in producing large, complex machined components used in military vehicle systems, fabricated structures, and mission‑critical products. We're looking for an experienced 5‑axis machinist who can take ownership of setup, programming, troubleshooting, and production while helping support the next phase of growth within our machining operations.
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- 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 work offsets, tooling compensation, and machine setups
- Perform machine prove‑outs and first‑piece inspections
- Align and locate large workpieces using stock models and tooling balls
- Hang and fixture large components on horizontal machining centers
- 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 within Plex ERP
- Collaborate with engineering, quality, materials, and programming teams
- Support preventive maintenance and Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) initiatives
- Maintain compliance with quality, safety, and environmental standards
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You'll work with equipment such as:
Machines:
- Zimmermann 5‑Axis Machining Centers
- Apec 5‑Axis Machining Centers
- FPT Machining Centers
- Mecof Machining Centers
Controls:
- Heidenhain
- Fidia
CAM Software:
- Mastercam
ERP System:
- Plex
Inspection Equipment:
- Precision measuring tools and first‑article inspection equipment
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Depending on program requirements, machining work may include:
- Steel
- Alloy Steel
- Weldments
- Castings
- Forgings
- Plate Material
- Tubing
- Defense‑grade structural materials
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- High school diploma or GED
- Minimum 5 years of CNC machining experience in a multi‑axis environment
- Minimum 2 years of Mastercam programming experience
- Experience setting up and operating complex 5‑axis machining centers
- Ability to read blueprints and interpret GD&T
- Strong understanding of tooling, offsets, workholding, and machining strategies
- Knowledge of ISO 9001 and/or AS9100 quality systems
- Understanding of 5S and lean manufacturing principles
- Strong troubleshooting and problem‑solving skills
- Ability to safely lift up to 50 pounds
- Reliable attendance and strong communication skills
- Experience with Heidenhain controls
- Experience with Fidia controls
- Crane operation experience
- Knowledge of ISO 14001 Environmental Management Systems
- Experience machining large structural components
- Experience in defense, heavy equipment, or aerospace manufacturing
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Machinists choose American Rheinmetall because:
- Growing defense manufacturer with long‑term program stability
- Modern 5‑axis machining technology and ongoing equipment investment
- Opportunity to work on large, complex, high‑visibility components
- Quarterly bonus opportunities
- Sign‑on bonus opportunities after 90 days
- Structured Machining Development Program
- Strong advancement opportunities as the company continues to expand
- Comprehensive benefits package
- Team‑oriented manufacturing culture focused on quality and continuous improvement
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Competitive Hourly Rate (DOE)
- Sign‑on bonus opportunities after 90 days
- Quarterly bonus opportunities
- Medical Insurance
- Dental Insurance
- Vision Insurance
- 401(k)
- Short‑Term Disability
- Long‑Term Disability
- Company contribution toward insurance premiums
- Benefits begin the first of the month following start date
- Machining Development Program
- Career growth opportunities
2nd Shift
- Monday – Thursday
- 4:30 PM – 2:30 AM
Overtime: Available as business needs require
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American Rheinmetall is a leading designer and manufacturer of advanced military vehicle systems, tracked and wheeled platforms, fabricated structures, armored products, and mission‑critical components supporting U.S. military modernization.
With facilities across Michigan, Ohio, and Maine, more than 1,500 employees, and over 1.7 million square feet of manufacturing space, American Rheinmetall delivers innovative solutions to the defense, industrial, construction, mining, and transportation sectors.
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