Machinist

The Panther Group; Dracut (MA); On-site; USD 30,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

The Panther Group is seeking an experienced Machinist for a hands-on role focused on manual machining and precision fabrication in a quality-driven shop in Dracut, MA. The candidate will read technical drawings, set up and operate knee mills and engine lathes, and produce precision components to tight tolerances.

Responsibilities include tooling design, fixtures, machine maintenance, and collaboration with engineering to improve manufacturability.

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience with manual machining on mills and lathes.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and drawings.
• Experience with tight tolerances and precision measurements.
• Knowledge of ISO 9001 quality systems and process controls.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate manual machine tools including knee mills and engine lathes.
• Perform milling, turning, drilling, boring, threading, grinding, and related machining operations.
• Design, fabricate, and modify tools, jigs, fixtures, and workholding devices.
• Perform preventive maintenance and routine adjustments on equipment.
• Interpret drawings and follow engineering instructions to meet specifications.
• Plan and execute machining assignments and inspect dimensions.

Skills

Manual machining

Blueprint reading

Precision measurement

Quality systems

Problem solving

Education

High school diploma

Technical high school or machining trade school

Tools

Knee mills

Engine lathes

Measuring instruments

Job description

Machinist Schedule: Monday-Friday, 7:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Machinist with a strong background in manual machining and the ability to work with a variety of traditional machine tools. The ideal candidate has hands‑on experience with machining, fabrication, precision measurements, and custom tooling in a quality-focused manufacturing environment. This position is well suited for someone who enjoys hands‑on problem‑solving, working from technical drawings, and producing precision components using both established machining methods and specialized setups.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up and operate manual machine tools, including knee mills, engine lathes, and related shop equipment.
• Perform milling, turning, facing, drilling, boring, threading, tapping, grinding, and other machining operations.
• Design, fabricate, and modify tools, jigs, fixtures, and specialized workholding devices.
• Perform preventive maintenance and routine adjustments on machining equipment.
• Perform machine tramming and ensure equipment is properly aligned for accurate machining.
• Complete complex setups involving close tolerances and critical dimensional requirements.
• Interpret sketches, preliminary drawings, blueprints, and verbal instructions from engineering personnel.
• Plan and execute machining assignments, including layout, fitting, adjustment, and dimensional inspection.
• Provide feedback to engineering and quality teams regarding drawing accuracy, manufacturability, and potential design improvements.
• Ensure finished components meet established quality standards and specifications.
• Perform peer inspections and verify dimensions using appropriate measuring instruments.
• Meet production schedules while maintaining quality and accuracy.
• Develop creative solutions for unusual machining challenges and adapt standard equipment or shop tools when necessary.
• Assist with training and sharing machining knowledge with other team members as needed.
• Follow established quality procedures and applicable process controls.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; technical high school or machining trade school education preferred.
• Approximately 4-6 years of related machining experience.
• Demonstrated hands‑on experience with manual machining, including mills and lathes.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and technical specifications.
• Experience working with tight tolerances and precision measurements.
• Knowledge of ISO 9001 quality systems and process controls.
• Strong mechanical aptitude, troubleshooting skills, and attention to detail.