Machinist

Mettle Ops; Madison Heights (MI); On-site; USD 42,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Mettle Ops is seeking a skilled Machinist to operate and maintain manual and CNC machining equipment, interpreting blueprints and inspecting parts to tight tolerances. This role supports production, engineering, and quality teams within a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

The successful candidate will read engineering drawings, select proper tooling, and verify dimensions using precision measurement tools, while maintaining safety and documentation of production activity.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Machinist apprenticeship or technical training completed.
• Associate degree preferred in machining or related field.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain manual and CNC machining equipment.
• Interpret technical drawings and inspect parts for tolerances.
• Ensure parts meet specifications through setup, tool selection and process control.
• Maintain a safe, organized, and efficient shop environment.

Skills

Blueprint Reading

Machine Operation

Precision Measurement

Shop Math & Tolerances

Troubleshooting

Maintenance

Documentation

Safety

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Machinist Apprenticeship or Technical Training

Associate’s Degree in Machining or Related Field (Preferred)

Tools

CAD/CAM Software

Lean Manufacturing

Quality Control Certification

Materials Knowledge

Job description

About the Organization Mettle Ops is a woman-owned business experienced in defense program management, federal acquisitions, business development, engineering, analysis, reporting, and risk management with the mission of helping soldiers survive on the battlefield. Through transparency and grit, Mettle Ops delivers multidisciplinary, comprehensive Department of Defense engineering solutions to government and industry partners on a national scale with a mission to build business based on a philosophy of hard work and dedication. Mettle Ops believes they have a high obligation to the warfighter, their home state of Michigan, their customers, their employees, their faith, and their place on this earth. Mettle Ops is inspired by courage and tenacity and so-named Mettle Ops.

EOE Statement We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.

Description

Purpose:

Operate and maintain manual and CNC machining equipment to produce, modify, and repair precision metal components. This role supports production, engineering, and quality teams by interpreting technical drawings, machining to tight tolerances, and performing accurate inspections. The Machinist ensures parts meet specifications through proper setup, tool selection, and process control, while contributing to a safe, organized, and efficient manufacturing environment.

Work Environment:

This role takes place in a machine shop environment with exposure to noise, vibration, metal chips, cutting fluids, and moving industrial equipment. Required PPE includes safety glasses, hearing protection, and steel-toed boots.

Position Requirements

Skills Requirements:

• Blueprint Reading – Understanding engineering drawings, specifications, and work orders

• Machine Operation – Setup and operation of lathes, mills, grinders, drill presses, and CNC machines

• Precision Measurement – Using calipers, micrometers, gauges, and inspection tools to verify dimensions

• Shop Math & Tolerances – Calculating dimensions, feeds, speeds, and tolerances

• Troubleshooting – Identifying and correcting machining issues to maintain accuracy and quality

• Maintenance – Performing routine machine cleaning and basic equipment care

• Documentation – Recording production activity and inspection results accurately

• Safety – Following machine shop safety protocols and maintaining a clean, hazard-free work area

Preferred Qualifications:

• CNC programming experience

• Familiarity with CAD/CAM software

• Knowledge of materials and machining processes

• Experience with lean manufacturing principles

• Certification in precision measurement or quality control

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand for extended periods

• Strong hand-eye coordination and attention to detail

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs

• Comfortable working around machinery, cutting fluids, and tooling

Education:

• High School Diploma (or GED or High School equivalence Certificate)

• Machinist apprenticeship or technical training required

• Associate’s degree in machining or related technical field preferred

Full-Time/Part-Time Full-Time

This position is currently accepting applications.