Lathe Machinist (Day Shift)

Aagard; Alexandria (MN); On-site; USD 33,000 - 40,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare

401(k) match

Paid Time Off

Holidays

Job summary

Aagard in Minnesota is seeking a skilled machinist to operate CNC mills and lathes, set up equipment, and optimize machining programs to meet exact specifications. You will read CAD drawings, monitor throughput, and document run times and material usage in our ERP system.

This role emphasizes safety, accuracy, and continuous improvement in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. The ideal candidate has a high school diploma or associate degree in machine tool technology, with experience reading

Qualifications

• Read CAD drawings and blueprints.
• Set up and operate CNC equipment.
• Read and understand measuring instrument usage.
• Experience with fabrication and CNC machinery maintenance.
• Proficient in basic shop math.
• Safety-conscious and detail-oriented.

Responsibilities

• Operate CNC mills and lathes to produce parts to specifications.
• Modify and optimize machining code.
• Record part movement, run times, and materials in ERP.
• Inspect parts against drawings and tolerances.
• Troubleshoot machining issues and prevent downtime.
• Maintain clean and safe work area.

Skills

CAD drawings read

CNC machining

Measuring instruments

Problem solving

Time management

Attention to detail

Safety awareness

Education

High School diploma

Associate's degree in Machine Tool Technology

Tools

ERP system

Aagard software

CAD/CAM tools

Job description

Job Duties

Key Obsessions:

• Operate Equipment Efficiently
• Set up and operate multiple CNC Mills, Lathes, and related equipment to produce parts to exact specifications.
• Modify and optimize machining code to maximize equipment capabilities and performance.
• Accurately record part movement, run time, and material usage in the ERP system.
• Monitor machine performance and adjust workflows to maintain throughput and minimize delays.

Produce Quality Parts

• Verify part quality by inspecting components against prints and precision tolerances.
• Adjust tooling, fixtures, and machine parameters as needed to ensure consistent results.
• Troubleshoot machining issues promptly to prevent defects and minimize downtime.
• Document quality findings and communicate issues proactively to support corrective action efforts.

Maintain Equipment and Safety

• Perform routine preventive maintenance and report equipment issues immediately.
• Follow all safety procedures and maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
• Actively contributes to continuous improvement efforts that enhance quality, efficiency, and safety.
• Identify and elevate safety or equipment risks early to prevent incidents and protect team members.

Minimum Education Required

• Minimum High School diploma, Associate’s degree in Machine Tool Technology or related field preferred plus 1 year machinist experience or equivalent combination of education and/or experience
• Ability to read CAD drawings and blueprints
• Demonstrated ability to set up and operate CNC equipment
• Ability to read and understand the proper use of measuring instruments
• Experience with fabrication and routine CNC machinery maintenance
• Demonstrated skillsets in critical thinking and technical problem solving
• Intermediate or advanced shop math skills such as algebra and trigonometry for measuring parts
• Understanding and/or experience with packaging machinery helpful
• Experience or training with computers and ability to learn and use Aagard specific software
• Ability to prioritize tasks
• Must be highly safety conscious
• Observant with attention to detail
• Conscientious of meeting and exceeding the internal customer requirements
• Ability to take action and be proactive
• Strong time management, organizational skills and passion for excellence
• Ability to walk or stand up to 100 percent of the time
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs., stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, or climb

Minimum Experience Required

• Minimum High School diploma, Associate’s degree in Machine Tool Technology or related field preferred plus 1 year machinist experience or equivalent combination of education and/or experience
• Ability to read CAD drawings and blueprints
• Demonstrated ability to set up and operate CNC equipment
• Ability to read and understand the proper use of measuring instruments
• Experience with fabrication and routine CNC machinery maintenance
• Demonstrated skillsets in critical thinking and technical problem solving
• Intermediate or advanced shop math skills such as algebra and trigonometry for measuring parts
• Understanding and/or experience with packaging machinery helpful
• Experience or training with computers and ability to learn and use Aagard specific software
• Ability to prioritize tasks
• Must be highly safety conscious
• Observant with attention to detail
• Conscientious of meeting and exceeding the internal customer requirements
• Ability to take action and be proactive
• Strong time management, organizational skills and passion for excellence
• Ability to walk or stand up to 100 percent of the time
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs., stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, or climb

Shift

First (Day)

Number of Openings

1

Veterans Encouraged to Apply

Yes

Drug Test Required

Yes

Compensation

$24.00 - $29.00 / Hourly

Postal Code

56308

Job Type

Full Time

Place of Work

On-site

Requisition ID

9599

Job Benefits

Benefits Offered:

• At Aagard, we believe in investing in you—your health, your career, your financial future, and your well-being. Our total rewards package is designed to support you and your family with meaningful benefits.
• Comprehensive Healthcare for You and Your Family
• No-Cost Coverage: Preventive & major medical coverage for you and your family—fully paid by Aagard.
• Flexible Health Options: Choose your own plan with company contributions through our Traditional Individual Insurance.
• Payment-in-lieu: Receive extra compensation if you’re insured elsewhere.
• Company-Paid Benefits: Dental, Life, and Disability insurance—all included.
• Wellness Support: Reimbursements for gym memberships, nutrition counseling, mental health services, vision screenings, and more.
• Financial Security
• 401(k) with Company Match: 50% match on the first 10% of your contributions.
• Quarterly Profit Sharing: Celebrate success with rewards that grow with our company.
• Time Off
• Paid Time Off: Enjoy time for rest and relaxation.
• 9 Paid Holidays throughout the year.
• Paid Bereavement Leave for life’s difficult moments.
• Volunteer Time Off: Make an impact with paid time to support causes you care about.
• Career Growth & Development Opportunities
• Pathways to Leadership: Build your future with mentorship and servant leadership programs.
• Educational Support: Scholarships and tuition reimbursement to help you grow.
• Unique Offerings That Set Us Apart
• Celebrate, Care, and Connect: Our on-staff chaplain is here to support you through life’s milestones, challenges, and celebrations.
• Supporting Our Community: Aagard matches your charitable contributions, helping you give back and make a difference.
• Team Building Events & Lunch & Learns: Connect, learn, and grow with your peers.
• Complimentary Perks: Enjoy fresh fruit, hot beverages, and local business discounts.
• At Aagard, you’re not just joining a company—you’re joining a team that cares. Your contributions matter here, and we’re proud to offer benefits that help you thrive at work and beyond.