Machinist

Kratos Defense and Security Solutions; Auburn Hills (MI); On-site; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance

Life/ADD & Short/Long Term Disability

401(k) Savings Plan

Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)

Paid Time Off (PTO)

Holidays

Education Reimbursement

Job summary

Kratos Defense and Security Solutions is seeking a senior Machinist to produce high-quality precision parts using primarily manual machining equipment, with CNC support as needed. You will be the go-to technical resource on the shop floor for complex work and will support prototype and small-batch parts.

Ideal candidates bring 10+ years of hands-on machining experience, strong proficiency with manual machines, and the ability to read blueprints and GD&T.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 10+ years of hands-on machining experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and GD&T.
• Experience with precision measurement tools and inspection layouts.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
• Commitment to safety and quality.
• Experience in evaluation and selection of milling and lathe tools.

Responsibilities

• Support the daily machining of parts to meet quality, delivery, and safety expectations.
• Set up and operate manual machines including Bridgeport mills, precision lathes, surface grinders, drill presses, saws, EDM and other general tool room equipment.
• Support CNC machining through setup, prove-outs, offsets, and minor program edits as needed.
• Serve as the go-to technical resource on the shop floor for complex or non-routine machining challenges.
• Read and interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, and work instructions.
• Machine parts to tight tolerances and quality standards.
• Perform in-process inspections using calipers, micrometers, indicators, and gauges.
• Troubleshoot machining issues related to tooling, fixturing, and processes.
• Mentor junior machinists and support training on safe and effective machining practices.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area.
• Follow all safety, quality, and compliance procedures.
• Support continuous improvement, 6S, and process optimization efforts.

Skills

Manual machining

Blueprints & GD&T

Precision measurement

Safety & quality

Problem solving

Tooling selection

Education

High school diploma

Tools

Bridgeport mills

Lathes

Surface grinders

EDM

Job description

GENERAL JOB SUMMARY

The Machinist is responsible for producing high-quality precision parts using primarily manual machining equipment, with the ability to support CNC operations as needed. This role supports the daily machining of prototype or small batch order parts and serves as the go-to technical resource on the shop floor for complex or non-routine work, bringing deep hands‑on experience in machining, setup, and problem-solving.

Job Description

GENERAL JOB SUMMARY

The Machinist is responsible for producing high-quality precision parts using primarily manual machining equipment, with the ability to support CNC operations as needed. This role supports the daily machining of prototype or small batch order parts and serves as the go-to technical resource on the shop floor for complex or non-routine work, bringing deep hands‑on experience in machining, setup, and problem-solving.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the daily machining of parts to meet quality, delivery, and safety expectations
• Setup and operate manual machines including Bridgeport mills, precision lathes, surface grinders, drill presses, saws, EDM and other general tool room equipment.
• Support CNC machining through setup, prove-outs, offsets, and minor program edits as needed
• Serve as the go‑to technical resource on the shop floor for complex or non‑routine machining challenges
• Read and interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, and work instructions
• Machine parts to tight tolerances and quality standards
• Perform in‑process inspections using calipers, micrometers, indicators, and gauges
• Troubleshoot machining issues related to tooling, fixturing, and processes
• Mentor junior machinists and support training on safe and effective machining practices
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area
• Follow all safety, quality, and compliance procedures
• Support continuous improvement, 6S, and process optimization efforts

Qualifications

Experience and Skills

Required

• High school diploma or equivalent
• 10+ years of hands‑on machining experience in a manufacturing environment
• Strong proficiency with manual machining equipment (Bridgeport mills, lathes, grinders)
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and GD&T
• Experience with precision measurement tools & Inspection layouts.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem‑solving skills
• Demonstrated commitment to safety and quality
• Experience in evaluation and selection of milling & lathe tools

Preferred

• Experience in aerospace, defense, or precision manufacturing
• Working knowledge of CNC machining (setup, offsets, basic troubleshooting)
• Experience with fixture design or process improvement
• Familiarity with AS9100 or ISO quality systems
• Experience in cutting super alloys

Work Environment / Physical Requirements

• Manufacturing shop environment
• Standing and walking for extended periods
• Frequent handling of materials, tooling, and fixtures
• Exposure to noise, equipment, and cutting fluids
• May be required to lift materials, components, or fixtures up to 50 lbs

Travel

• None

THE ABOVE STATEMENTS ARE INTENDED TO DESCRIBE THE GENERAL NATURE AND LEVEL OF WORK BEING PERFORMED BY INDIVIDUALS ASSIGNED TO THIS CLASSIFICATION. THEY ARE NOT INTENDED TO BE CONSTRUED AS AN EXHAUSTIVE LIST OF ALL RESPONSIBILITIES, DUTIES AND SKILLS REQUIRED OF PERSONNEL SO CLASSIFIED. ALL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ARE ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS AND REQUIREMENTS AND ARE SUBJECT TO POSSIBLE MODIFICATION TO REASONABLY ACCOMMODATE INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES TO PERFORM THIS JOB PROFICIENTLY. THE REQUIREMENTS LISTED IN THIS DOCUMENT ARE THE MINIMUM LEVELS OF KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS OR ABILITIES.

EEO/M/F/D/V

Kratos Defense is an Equal Opportunity Affiniative Action Employer. EOE, Minorities, Females, Vet, Disabled, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity or any other protected class. All qualified job seekers are encouraged to apply. Kratos Defense is committed to America's veterans by providing opportunities for them to continue contributing after service to our nation. We also work to provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities.

Job Benefits

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance Coverage
• Life/ADD & Short/Long Term Disability Insurance
• 401(k) Savings Plan
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
• Paid Time‑Off (PTO)
• Holidays
• Education Reimbursement

EEO Is The Law

Disability Accessibility Accommodation

If you require an accommodation to navigate or apply to our careers site, please send your request to [e-mail] or call 858-964-2916. Any inquires not related to requesting an accommodation will be discarded.

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