Journeylevel Machinist

Sulzer; Odessa (TX); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

PTO & holidays

401k with 6% match

Health plan

HSA matching

Wellness program

EAP

Paternal leave

Gym reimbursement

Job summary

Sulzer is seeking a Lead Machine Operator in Odessa, TX to oversee the operation of multiple machines on the production floor. You will guide other operators, ensure safety and quality, and support troubleshooting and maintenance.

This professional role requires autonomous work and coordination of staff in non-routine situations. Responsibilities include setting up machines, reading drawings, improving methods, and adhering to LEAN and EHS policies.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent.
• Completion of a machinist apprentice program or equivalent training.
• Ability to hold close tolerances and conduct component inspections.
• Demonstrated ability to set up machines: I.D./O.D. Grinder, Turret Lathe, Engine Lathe, Knee Mill, Radial Drill, Horizontal/Vertical Boring Mills, Planer Mill.
• Ability to work with minimal supervision.
• Knowledge of tool geometry and feeds/speeds.

Responsibilities

• Performs layouts, sets up, and operates conventional machine tools as required.
• Reads and interprets drawings, including GD&T.
• Designs setups and methods where none exist.
• Instructs shop personnel in proper machining techniques.
• Improve methods for higher quality and lower costs.
• Assist maintenance in diagnosis, repair, and preventative maintenance.
• Operate jib cranes and forklifts as directed.
• Adhere to policies and LEAN/EHS requirements.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Skills

Team environment

Overtime readiness

Tool geometry knowledge

Feeds and speeds knowledge

Close tolerances

Inspection skills

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

Machinist apprentice program or equivalent training

Tools

I.D./O.D. Grinder

Turret Lathe

Engine Lathe

Knee Mill

Radial Drill

Horizontal Boring Mill

Vertical Boring Mill

Planer Mill

Job description

Sulzer is a leading engineering company with a proud heritage of innovation. Join our global team to grow your expertise and develop innovative solutions that enable a prosperous and more sustainable society.

About the role

Job Summary
The Lead Machine Operator is responsible for overseeing the operation of machinery and equipment on the production floor, ensuring optimal performance and adherence to safety and quality standards. This role provides guidance to other machine operators and supports troubleshooting and maintenance activities.
This job profile is intended for professional-level staff that works autonomously and may coordinate the activities of other professional-level staff, especially in non-routine situations.

Key Responsibilities

• Performs layouts, sets up, and operates conventional machine tools as required

• Reads and interprets all drawings, including geometric dimensioning and tolerancing

• Designs setups and methods where none exist

• Instructs other shop personnel in proper machining techniques: set-ups, feeds and speeds for both carbide and high-speed steel cutting tools, methods and standard operating procedures

• Improve methods for higher quality and improved costs.

• Assist maintenance in diagnosis, repair, and preventative maintenance

• Operate jib cranes and forklifts as directed by Area Superintendent

• Adheres to company and department policies, procedures, and standards

• Supports, cooperates with, and participates in company-wide LEAN and EHS Management System which includes following all safety, health and environmental policies and procedures

• Performs other duties as assigned

Skills & Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent
• Completion of a machinist apprentice program or equivalent training
• Ability to hold close tolerances and conduct component inspections
• Demonstrated ability to effectively set up all, or at least most, of the following machines: I.D./O.D. Grinder, Turret Lathe, Engine Lathe, Knee Mill, Radial Drill, Horizontal Boring Mill, Vertical Boring Mill, and Planer Mill
• Ability to perform with a minimum of direct supervision
• Working knowledge of tool geometry and application
• Working knowledge of effects of feeds and speeds
• 5 years of experience in machine shops on the above equipment
• Willingness to work in a team environment
• Ability to work overtime as required

What we offer you

• 15 days of paid time off and 12 company-paid holidays
• 401k plan with a 6% match
• Comprehensive health plan including medical, dental, vision, Life, short-term & long-term disability
• Health savings account matching
• Motivating wellness program
• Employee Assistance Program
• Paid paternal leave
• Gym reimbursement

Sulzer is an equal opportunity employer. We believe in the strength of a diverse workforce and are committed to offering an inclusive work environment.

We are proud to be recognized as a Top Employer 2026 in Brazil, Canada, China, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Mexico, Switzerland, South Africa, the UK and the USA.