Lapping (Lap) Machine Operator

CMI Group Aerospace & Defense; Phoenix (AZ); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision insurance

401(k) with company match

Job summary

CMI Group Aerospace & Defense in Phoenix, AZ, is seeking a Lapping Machine Operator responsible for finishing aerospace components to micro-inch tolerances. Candidates should have 1–5+ years of experience in manual machining, a high school diploma, and GD&T proficiency.

This role involves operating precision machines, verifying dimensions using calibrated tools, and ensuring compliance with aerospace standards. The company offers competitive wages and a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, 401(k), and more.

Qualifications

• 1–5+ years of experience in close-tolerance manual machining or grinding.
• Solid understanding of GD&T principles.
• Ability to work 40+ hours per week in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate lapping and polishing machines.
• Mix and apply abrasive compounds as per specifications.
• Use measuring tools to verify dimensions.
• Read and interpret engineering drawings and CAD models.
• Compute clearances and material removal rates.

Skills

Close-tolerance machining

GD&T proficiency

Problem-solving skills

Communication skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Micrometers

Bore gauges

Digital height stands

Air gauges

Job description

Lapping (Lap) Machine Operator – Defense & Aerospace Machine Shop

Location: 3617 E La Salle St, Phoenix, AZ 85040

Shift: Day shift (Mon‑Fri)

Overview

A Lapping (Lap) Machine Operator in aerospace manufacturing is a precision machinist responsible for finishing metal, ceramic, or composite aircraft components to micro‑inch tolerances. Lapping is a surface‑finishing process that uses an abrasive slurry to achieve extreme flatness, smoothness, and exact geometric dimensions.

Key Responsibilities

• Machine Setup & Operation: Set up and operate manual, power‑stroked, or automated lapping, polishing, and honing machines.
• Slurry Selection: Mix and apply correct abrasive compounds and polishing media (e.g., diamond or silicon carbide slurries) based on the blueprint specifications.
• Precision Inspection: Use highly calibrated measuring tools like micrometers, bore gauges, digital height stands, and air gauges to verify dimensions.
• Blueprint Interpretation: Read and interpret complex engineering drawings, CAD models, and process routers to determine exact product sequences.
• Mathematical Calculation: Compute clearances, tapers, and material removal rates to maintain close tolerances.
• Component Deburring: Clean, deburr, and package finished aerospace parts to protect their surfaces.
• Cross‑Functional Collaboration: Partner daily with quality assurance, manufacturing engineering, and production teams to optimize cycle times and improve efficiency.

Required Qualifications & Skills

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience: 1–5+ years of experience in close‑tolerance manual machining or grinding, specifically within an aerospace manufacturing environment.
• GD&T Proficiency: Solid understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) principles.
• Regulatory Compliance: Must meet ITAR requirements as a "U.S. Person" (citizen, green card holder, or permanent resident) due to defense and controlled military data restrictions.
• Work Hours: Ability to work 40+ hours per week in a fast‑paced, high‑demand, quality environment.
• Communication & Problem‑Solving: Sufficient verbal and written communication skills as well as good problem‑solving skills.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, disability and life insurance available.
• 401(k) with company match.

Compliance

Drug‑free workplace in accordance with the Federal Drug‑Free Workplace Act of 1988 and Arizona Revised Statutes §23‑493. All offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a pre‑employment drug screening.

EEO Statement

CMI Group is an equal‑opportunity employer providing competitive wages and benefits. This company provides equal employment opportunities to applicants without regard to race, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, or disabilities in compliance with federal and state laws including the Civil Rights Act of 1964 as amended, Age Discrimination Act of 1967 as amended, Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Act of 1974, Americans with Disabilities Act Amendment Act of 2009 (ADAAA), the Wagner‑Peyser Act as amended, the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, and the Fair Credit Reporting Act, 15 U.S.C.1681etseq.