CNC Machinist - 2nd Shift

American Rheinmetall; Lansing (MI); On-site; USD 30,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

American Rheinmetall’s Lansing facility seeks CNC Machinists to operate and program centers across Level 1–3. You’ll set up tools, verify dimensions, and perform first-run inspections while mentoring junior machinists and ensuring quality in a defense/aerospace context.

Candidates should have a high school diploma or GED and several years of experience with precision measuring tools, GD&T, and reading blueprints. Eligibility includes safety awareness and willingness to obtain required permits.

Qualifications

• Level 1 requires a high school diploma or GED and at least 1 year of CNC machining experience.
• Level 2 requires a high school diploma or GED and at least 3 years of CNC machining experience.
• Level 3 requires a high school diploma or GED and at least 5 years of CNC machining experience; GD&T proficiency and advanced math skills.

Responsibilities

• Operate CNC machines by setting tool registers, offsets, compensation, and conditional switches.
• Edit CNC programs and prove part programs; set up machines with fixtures and cutters.
• Plan machining by reviewing orders, blueprints, and GD&T requirements; program and prove parts.
• Train and mentor Level 1 and 2 machinists; support continuous improvement.

Skills

Basic math

Follow instructions

Overhead crane permit

Measurement/quality

Geometry

Troubleshooting

Reading drawings

GD&T

Precision tools

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Calipers

Micrometers

Bore gauges

Job description

CNC Machinists operate and maintain CNC machining centers to perform functions such as boring, facing, threading, and other machining of metallic workpieces including castings, forgings, and bar stock. Levels 1, 2, and 3 represent progressive skills and responsibilities, with each level building upon the last in terms of technical expertise, programming ability, and leadership.

CNC Machinist Level 1

• Operate CNC machines by setting tool registers, offsets, compensation, and conditional switches.
• Perform basic calculations, including fundamental math functions.
• Verify machine settings by measuring positions and adhering to international standards.
• Maintain specifications by observing operations such as drilling, grooving, turning, and facing.
• Take measurements, detect malfunctions, adjust controls, and replace worn tools.
• Follow safety procedures and maintain a clean, safe work environment.
• Complete preventive maintenance, troubleshoot basic malfunctions, and call for repairs as needed.
• Document production and quality logs.
• Communicate shift activity and irregularities to maintain continuity.
• Update knowledge through training and technical reading.
• Support organizational goals by accepting new tasks and contributing to process improvement.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education: High school diploma or GED equivalent.

Experience: At least one (1) year of CNC machining experience.

Skills:

• Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide using whole numbers, fractions, and decimals.
• Basic ability to compute ratios, percentages, and interpret bar graphs.
• Ability to follow written, oral, or diagram instructions.
• Must demonstrate the ability and willingness to obtain an overhead crane permit as part of job requirements.

CNC Machinist Level 2

• Edit CNC programs and prove part programs.
• Set up CNC machines by installing and adjusting chucks, tools, attachments, collets, bushings, cams, gears, and stock pushers.
• Verify machine settings by measuring positions, first-run parts, and sample workpieces.
• Observe machining processes, detect malfunctions, troubleshoot processes, and adjust/reprogram controls.
• Perform intermediate calculations including geometry and trigonometry.
• Perform preventive maintenance, troubleshoot malfunctions, and arrange for repairs.
• Maintain and document production and quality logs.
• Train and mentor Level 1 machinists as needed.
• Support company initiatives through continuous improvement and ownership of assigned tasks.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education: High school diploma or GED equivalent.

Experience: At least three (3) years of CNC machining experience.

Skills:

• Proficiency in basic geometry and trigonometry.
• Strong troubleshooting and process improvement skills.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and work instructions

CNC Machinist Level 3

• Plan machining by reviewing work orders, blueprints, engineering plans, and GD&T requirements.
• Program CNC machines, including entering instructions, establishing zero/reference points, and proving part programs.
• Set up CNC machines with advanced fixturing, tramming, and tooling requirements.
• Verify settings and ensure accuracy of first-run and sample workpieces to international standards.
• Troubleshoot processes, reprogram controls, and oversee advanced quality assurance procedures.
• Train and lead Level 1 and 2 machinists, providing technical guidance.
• Participate in lessons learned and process improvement activities.
• Ensure compliance with AS9100 and ISO14001 standards.
• Document and communicate production activity to maintain shift continuity.
• Perform advanced preventive maintenance and coordinate complex repair needs.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Education: High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Experience: At least five (5) years of CNC machining experience, or equivalent education/experience.
• Skills:
  • Proficiency in GD&T for print reading.
  • Strong understanding of geometry, trigonometry, and advanced machining calculations.
  • Experience with calipers, micrometers, bore gages, and other precision instruments.
• Background Requirements: Must pass background check, employment verification, reference checks, and controlled substance testing.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience in aerospace/defense machining.
• Strong knowledge of AS9100 and ISO14001 standards.

Competencies (All Levels)

• Quantity of Work: Produces work in the required volume and time frame.
• Quality of Work: Meets accuracy standards with minimal rework.
• Judgment/Knowledge of Job: Demonstrates knowledge of techniques, equipment, and procedures.
• Attendance/Dependability: Reliable and punctual.
• Teamwork/Attitude: Cooperative and open to feedback.
• Initiative/Independence: Takes on tasks and works independently.
• Adherence to Policy: Follows quality/environmental policies.
• Adherence to Safety: Practices safe work habits and wears required PPE.

Working Conditions and Physical Demands (All Levels)

• While performing duties, the employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, sit, use hands to handle tools, and reach with arms.
• Must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Work is performed in a production environment with exposure to machine operations.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

American Rheinmetall provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sex (including pregnancy), gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or marital status, in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

By signing below, I acknowledge that I have received and reviewed the job description for my position. I understand the duties, responsibilities and expectations of this role and agree to perform them to the best of my ability. I understand that this job description is not a contract and may be amended as necessary.

Equal employment opportunity, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.

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