Conventional Machinist

Advanced Structural Technologies, Inc.; Oxnard (CA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

401(k) Plan

Life Insurance

Disability Insurance

Paid Holidays

Paid Vacation

Paid Sick Leave

Job summary

Advanced Structural Technologies, Inc. in Oxnard, CA is seeking an experienced conventional machinist to support tooling fabrication and tooling maintenance for forging, spinning, and machining operations.

You will read engineering drawings, set up and operate manual lathes and mills, select tooling and parameters, inspect parts with precision instruments, and collaborate with engineers to improve tooling life and performance.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years in a conventional machining role focusing on tooling fabrication or machine shop support.
• Proficient operating manual lathes and mills.
• Strong ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings and specifications.
• Experience machining large steel components with tight tolerances.
• Skilled with precision measuring instruments and quality verification.
• Strong mechanical aptitude, problem-solving, and attention to detail.
• Able to work independently, manage time, and contribute to a team environment.
• Familiarity with tooling used in forging, spinning, or CNC machining is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate conventional/manual lathes and mills to fabricate and modify tooling components.
• Work with large steel tooling used in forging, spinning, and CNC machining departments.
• Read and interpret engineering drawings, sketches, and tooling specifications for accuracy.
• Select tooling, feeds, speeds, and methods based on material and design requirements.
• Inspect tooling dimensions using calipers, micrometers, height gauges, and dial indicators.
• Collaborate with engineers and shop leadership to resolve tooling challenges and implement design improvements.
• Assist with repairs, modifications, and reconditioning of existing tools to extend tool life.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area following safety policies.
• Support continuous improvement in tooling efficiency, accuracy, and standardization.

Skills

Conventional machining

Manual lathe operation

Manual milling

Reading engineering drawings

Large component machining

Tight tolerances

Precision measurement

Problem solving

Independent work

Team collaboration

Tools

Calipers

Micrometers

Height gauges

Dial indicators

Dial calipers

Job description

About Us

Advanced Structural Technologies (AST) is a leading manufacturer specializing in forged, flow-formed, and machined products for the aerospace, defense, and automotive industries. With over 25 years of experience, AST has built a strong reputation for precision engineering, innovation, and high-quality manufacturing.

Located in Oxnard, California, AST operates out of a cutting-edge facility spanning over 250,000 sq. ft., including our newest expansion completed in 2024. AST employs approximately 165 skilled professionals across multi-shift operations, ensuring efficiency, precision, and timely delivery for mission-critical industries.

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced conventional machinist to support the fabrication and maintenance of tooling components used in our forging, spinning, and machining operations. This role focuses on building, modifying, and repairing tooling, not production parts. The ideal candidate will be highly skilled in operating manual lathes and mills, reading engineering drawings, and working with large steel components to create durable and accurate tooling used in the manufacturing of aerospace and automotive products.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up and operate conventional/manual lathes and mills to fabricate and modify tooling components
• Work primarily with large steel tooling used in forging, spinning, and CNC machining departments
• Read and interpret engineering drawings, sketches, and tooling specifications to ensure accurate fabrication
• Select appropriate tooling, feeds, speeds, and machining methods based on material properties and design requirements
• Inspect and verify tooling dimensions using calipers, micrometers, height gauges, and dial indicators
• Collaborate with engineers and machine shop leadership to resolve tooling challenges and implement design improvements
• Assist with repairs, modifications, and reconditioning of existing tools to extend tool life and maintain performance
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area in accordance with company safety policies
• Support continuous improvement in tooling efficiency, accuracy, and standardization

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of experience in a conventional machining role, with a focus on tooling fabrication or machine shop support
• Proficient in operating manual lathes, mills, and related equipment
• Strong ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings and specifications
• Experience machining large steel components with tight tolerances
• Skilled in the use of precision measuring instruments and quality verification techniques
• Strong mechanical aptitude, problem-solving ability, and attention to detail
• Able to work independently, manage time effectively, and contribute to a team-oriented environment
• Familiarity with tooling used in forging, spinning, or CNC machining is highly desirable

Why Join AST?

At AST, we believe in fostering a work environment where employees can thrive both personally and professionally. We offer a competitive benefits package, including:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 401(k) Savings Plan
• Company-Sponsored Life Insurance
• Short-term and Long-term Disability Coverage
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Vacation and Sick Leave