Entry Level Machinist 1st shift

Forma-Fab Metals; Mebane (NC); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Forma-Fab Metals seeks an experienced Machinist to program, load, operate, and monitor CNC mills and lathes, ensuring precise production. You will fabricate parts, run production lots, and perform secondary operations and spot welding as needed.

You must read blueprints, have CAD/CAM proficiency, and demonstrate strong problem-solving and time-management skills while maintaining safety and quality standards.

Qualifications

• CNC machining experience is required.
• Ability to read blueprints and tolerances precisely.
• CAD/CAM knowledge for programming and job setup.
• Strong problem-solving and time-management skills.

Responsibilities

• Program mills and lathes with tool offsets and references.
• Set up mills and lathes with chucks, tools, and fixtures.
• Load stock, run production lots, and inspect first pieces.
• Document actions and maintain ERP data logs.
• Maintain safe operations and perform preventive maintenance.

Skills

CNC operation

Blueprint reading

CAD/CAM knowledge

Problem solving

Time management

Manual machining

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

Shift

Monday through Thursday, 6:00 am - 4:30 pm. plus overtime as needed

Position Summary

The Machinist is responsible for programming, loading, operating, and monitoring Numerical Control (NC) machines to ensure efficient and precise production. This role involves fabricating parts, running production lots, performing hardware insertion, and executing spot welding as required. Proficiency in manual machining is also essential for completing custom work or secondary operations not suitable for automated equipment. A strong attention to detail and the ability to accurately read and interpret blueprints are critical for maintaining high-quality standards. Effective communication with team members regarding production runs is necessary. The Machinist is expected to maintain a safe, organized, and clean work environment in accordance with company policies and safety regulations.

Essential functions

• Plan machining process by studying work orders, blueprints, engineering plans, materials, specifications, orthographic drawings, locations of surfaces, and machining parameters; interpreting geometric dimensions and tolerances
• Plan stock inventory by checking stock to determine the amount available; verifying needed stock, following up on orders
• Program mills and lathes by entering instructions, including zero and reference points; setting tool registers, offsets, compensation, and conditional switches; calculating requirements, including basic math, geometry, and trigonometry; and providing part programs
• Set up mills and lathes by installing and adjusting three and four-jaw chucks, tools, attachments, collets, bushings, cams, gears, stops, and stock pushers; indicating vices; tramming heads
• Load feed mechanism by lifting stock into position
• Verify settings by measuring positions first-run part and sample work pieces; adhering to standards
• Maintain specifications by observing drilling, grooving, and cutting, including turning, facing, knurling, and thread chasing operations; taking measurements; detecting malfunctions; troubleshooting processes; adjusting and reprogramming controls; sharpening and replacing worn tools; adhering to quality assurance procedures and processes
• Maintain safe operations by adhering to safety procedures and regulations
• Maintain equipment by completing preventive maintenance requirements; following manufacturer’s instructions; troubleshooting malfunctions; calling for repairs
• Maintain continuity among work shifts by documenting and communicating actions, irregularities, and continuing needs
• Document actions by completing production and quality logs
• Accomplish organizational goals by accepting ownership for accomplishing new and different requests; exploring opportunities to add value to job accomplishments
• Input and maintain data in the ERP computer system
• Assist in other areas as needed

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED
• 4-5 years of CNC experience
• Conceptual Skills
• Mechanical and Technical skills-machines controlled by computers will need operators who understand CAD/CAM technology
• Problem-solving skills
• Time Management
• Basic Computer Skills
• Maintain excellent attendance, and expected to work overtime if needed.

Environmental Conditions

• Humidity level may be elevated during the summer months
• Exposure to loud noise
• Exposed to fumes or airborne particles, moving mechanical parts, and vibration

Physical Demands

• Able to stand on your feet for at least eight hours a day
• Requires frequent lifting, pushing, and pulling objects that are 50 pounds or heavier
• Required to walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms, and talk or hear
• This is a 40-hour-a-week job with the potential for overtime