Journeyman Machinist

Cherokee Federal; Barstow (CA); On-site; USD 34,440 - 38,572; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Dental benefits

Vision benefits

401K plan

Job summary

Cherokee Federal is looking for a skilled Journeyman Machinist in California, Barstow. The role involves advanced machining operations, including setting up CNC and conventional machines, and ensuring precision manufacturing of components.

The ideal candidate will be responsible for interpreting engineering drawings and executing tasks independently to meet quality and safety standards. Full-time benefits include medical, dental, vision, and 401K plans. The estimated starting salary range is $25 to $28 per hour, depending on experience.

Qualifications

• Journeyman-level machinist experience with proficiency in CNC and conventional tools.
• Ability to interpret blueprints and execute complex work independently.
• Advanced knowledge of shop mathematics for precise calculations.
• Strong problem-solving skills in manufacturing contexts.

Responsibilities

• Perform advanced machining operations for precision components.
• Set up and operate CNC and conventional machine tools.
• Interpret engineering drawings and specifications to produce parts.
• Collaborate with engineering staffs for process improvements.

Skills

Journeyman-level machinist experience

Advanced shop mathematics

Blueprint and engineering drawings interpretation

Problem-solving skills

Metrology equipment proficiency

Material behavior understanding

Ability to obtain T1 Security Clearance

Tools

CNC machine tools

Conventional machine tools

Job description

Journeyman Machinist

The Journeyman Machinist is responsible for performing advanced machining operations to manufacture, repair, and modify precision components in support of maintenance and production objectives. This role includes setting up and operating conventional and CNC machine tools, interpreting engineering drawings and technical specifications, and producing parts to exact tolerances. The machinist works independently on complex assignments, ensuring all work meets established quality, safety, and schedule requirements.

Compensation & Benefits

Estimated Starting Salary Range: $25/hr - $28/hr

Pay commensurate with experience.

Full-time benefits include Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, and other possible benefits as provided. Benefits are subject to change with or without notice.

Responsibilities

• Provide journeyman-level machinist support for the disassembly, repair, modification, fabrication, and overhaul of motor transport, ordnance, engineer, general‑purpose, and related support equipment.
• Perform precision machining, cutting, and heat‑treating operations to support maintenance and production requirements.
• Fabricate new components from raw materials such as bulk stock, castings, and forgings; reclaim and repair worn parts using machining and thermal spray/metalizing techniques.
• Produce parts to exacting standards, maintaining precision tolerances up to 0.0001 inches.
• Set up and operate a broad range of conventional and CNC/NC machine tools, including lathes, vertical and horizontal mills, boring mills, grinders, drills, saws, and multi‑axis machining centers.
• Complete new job setups, ensuring proper alignment and configuration to maintain required tolerances.
• Troubleshoot and resolve machining issues, including editing CNC programs and correcting machine malfunctions.
• Select appropriate machines, tooling, attachments, and operational sequences to efficiently complete assignments.
• Interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, work orders, specifications, sketches, and verbal instructions to plan and execute machining tasks.
• Apply shop mathematics, including algebraic, geometric, and trigonometric formulas, to calculate dimensions, angles, and tolerances.
• Determine proper speeds, feeds, coolants, lubricants, and abrasives for cutting, drilling, milling, boring, grinding, and finishing operations.
• Machine a variety of materials, including ferrous and non‑ferrous metals, alloys, plastics, and synthetic materials.
• Design and fabricate custom jigs, fixtures, clamps, mandrels, and other specialized tooling to support complex or non‑standard machining operations.
• Perform ancillary repair tasks such as removing broken fasteners or tooling and installing threaded inserts.
• Continuously monitor machining processes and verify dimensional accuracy using precision measuring instruments (e.g., micrometers, calipers, dial indicators, height gauges, and comparator gauges).
• Perform preventive maintenance on machinery and maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment.
• Ensure all work meets or exceeds established quality and schedule standards.
• Analyze processes and recommend improvements to enhance efficiency, quality, and cost‑effectiveness.
• Collaborate with engineering and technical personnel to develop and implement improved machining methods and procedures.
• Maintain independent supervision of assigned tasks and manage work efforts in accordance with contract requirements.
• Perform other job‑related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Journeyman‑level machinist experience with demonstrated proficiency operating conventional and CNC/NC machine tools.
• Ability to independently interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and technical instructions to plan and execute work assignments from start to finish.
• Advanced knowledge of shop mathematics, including algebraic, geometric, and trigonometric calculations.
• Comprehensive understanding of metals, alloys, plastics, and material behavior during machining and heat‑treating processes.
• High level of precision and proficiency in the use of metrology equipment to verify tight tolerances.
• Strong problem‑solving skills, including the ability to design and fabricate custom tooling and fixtures for specialized applications.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and exercise sound judgment in selecting work methods and procedures.
• Effective collaboration skills to coordinate with engineers, technicians, and other stakeholders.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a T1 Security Clearance and a Government Contractor Common Access Card (CAC).
• Must pass pre‑employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal.

Position may require access to government buildings or military installations.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected veteran status, disability or any other status protected under applicable federal, state or local law.