Aerospace Prototype & Tooling Machinist (2nd Shift)

DRT Holdings, LLC; Meriden (CT); On-site; USD 78,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Day 1 Benefits & 401K Company Match

Paid time off and holidays + Floating

Training and professional development

Tuition Reimbursement Program

Stable, growing aerospace environment

Job summary

DRT Aerospace in Meriden, CT is seeking an experienced Prototype & Tooling Machinist to design, build, repair, and refine precision tooling and fixtures in a true toolroom.

You will set up CNC lathes and mills, read blueprints with GD&T, verify tolerances with precision instruments, and collaborate with Engineering, Quality, and Production to improve tooling. This role emphasizes craftsmanship, problem-solving, and safety.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of Tool Making, Tool & Die, Precision Machining, or related experience.
• Strong CNC milling and turning experience.
• Ability to machine parts independently from print to finished product.
• Experience reading blueprints and applying GD&T principles.
• Strong understanding of tight-tolerance machining and manufacturing processes.
• Experience using precision measuring and inspection equipment.

Responsibilities

• Build, repair, modify, and maintain tooling, fixtures, jigs, gauges, and production equipment.
• Set up and operate CNC lathes, VTLs, milling machines, and 5-axis machining centers.
• Machine parts from blueprints through final completion.
• Support production operations as needed while maintaining toolroom priorities.
• Read and interpret blueprints, GD&T, and engineering drawings.
• Verify dimensions using precision measuring equipment including micrometers, indicators, and height gages.
• Troubleshoot tooling and machining issues to improve performance and reliability.
• Partner with Engineering, Quality, and Production teams to develop tooling solutions and process improvements.
• Maintain high standards for safety, quality, and workmanship.

Skills

Tool making

CNC milling

CNC turning

GD&T

Blueprint reading

Mechanical aptitude

Problem solving

Tools

Bullard VTLs

Okuma Horizontal Lathe

Okuma TVL

Nakamura Lathes

Matsuura

Niigata

Job description

DRT Aerospace in Meriden, CT is seeking an experienced Prototype & Tooling Machinist to design, build, repair, and refine precision tooling and fixtures in a true toolroom.

You will set up CNC lathes and mills, read blueprints with GD&T, verify tolerances with precision instruments, and collaborate with Engineering, Quality, and Production to improve tooling. This role emphasizes craftsmanship, problem-solving, and safety.