Machinist I

General Dynamics - Ordnance and Tactical Systems (CA); San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 41,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical

Dental

Vision

Disability insurance

Life insurance

401k plan

Educational assistance

Commuter benefits

Critical illness insurance

Pet Insurance

Job summary

General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems in San Diego is seeking a Machinist I to operate metalworking machines, read blueprints, and determine tool paths to produce precise parts. You will manually set up and adjust equipment, ensuring parts meet specifications.

This on-site role emphasizes safe operation, routine maintenance of tools, and measuring accuracy with precision instruments. You will collaborate with the manufacturing team to uphold quality and efficiency expectations.

Qualifications

• Attending a Vocational/Technical School or equivalent training or no prior experience required.
• Equivalent combination of relevant education, experience, or skillset.

Responsibilities

• Assists with assembling, repairing, and fabricating parts by operating mechanical equipment.
• Reads blueprints and design sketches to determine specifications and tolerances.
• Selects and operates tools to cut, shape, or finish metal, plastic, or composite material.
• Sets up, services, and maintains equipment for safe operation.
• Uses precision measuring instruments to verify machined parts.
• Assembles parts into sub-units or complete units as required.

Education

Vocational/Technical School or equivalent training

Job description

Machinist I

Job Locations

US-CA-San Diego

Requisition ID: 2026-36782

Position Type: Full Time

Position Classification: On-Site

Job Function: Skilled Trades

Company Overview

At General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems, our employees are the heart of our company. We invite you to apply to join our team of employees who are dedicated to excellence that meet the needs of the warfighters and our customers around the world, day in and day out.

Job Summary

Metal Part Machining focuses on operating computer or mechanically controlled machines to produce and repair metal parts for manufacturing. Analyzes engineering specifications or blueprints to define the dimensions and features of the metal part to be produced. Determines the optimal tool path for fabricating the part by selecting appropriate machine tools (e.g., lathes, drill presses, milling machines, grinders, boring machines, etc.) and specifying the sequence of tool operations. Manually sets up/adjusts machine tools. Recommends revisions in design and/or substitutions in material based on machinability or fabrication problems

Impact of the Role

General Profile

• Acquires basic skills to perform routine tasks
• Develops understanding in an analytical or scientific method or operational process
• Works with close supervision
• Performs manual tasks according to established procedures

Essential Functions

• Assists with assembling, repairing, and fabricating parts or components for tools or machines by operating mechanical equipment.
• Supports with reading and interpreting blueprints and design sketches to determine the precise specifications, dimensions, and tolerance levels of the finished product.
• Selects and operates the appropriate tools to cut, shape, or finish metal, plastic, or composite material.
• Sets up, services, and maintains equipment to ensure efficient and safe operation.
• Utilizes precision measuring instruments to check the accuracy and quality of machined parts.
• Assembles parts into sub-units or complete units as necessary.

Required Qualifications

• Required education and experience: Attending a Vocational / Technical School or internal training program OR Equivalent Combination of Relevant Education & Experience or Skillset; No prior experience needed

Preferred Qualifications

• Preferred education and experience: Vocational/Technical Training Degree
• Discipline/Major: Technical training preferred
• Knowledge, skills & abilities: Mathematical skills. Technical expertise. Attention to detail. Equipment Maintenance. Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T). Machine Operation. Machine Programming, Manufacturing. Machining Milling. Numerical Control. Precision Machining. Precision Measurement. Reading Blueprints/Diagrams. Safety Policies and Procedures. Mechanical Maintenance.

Physical Requirements

• Requires regular movement throughout GD-OTS facilities.
• Must be able to lift up to 45 pounds.
• May need to stand for long periods of time.
• Work may require employee to work inside and outside with exposure to changing climate and/or operate machinery.
• May be requested to work a different shift.
• Must be willing to work outside normal business hours as required.
• This position is Safety-Sensitive.

Travel Requirements

No or very little travel likely.

Pay Range (USD)

Min $40,800/Annu. - Max $55,200/Annu.

Pay Transparency Statement

The salary range displayed reflects the minimum and maximum for salary for this position. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, internal equity, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter can share more about the range during the hiring process.

Additional Compensation

Hired applicant may be eligible to participate in the Company's Gain Sharing Program.

Benefits

• medical
• dental
• vision
• short and long-term disability
• basic life insurance
• pre-tax spending accounts
• company's 401k plan
• Non-Contributory Retirement Contribution
• Critical Illness Insurance
• Accident Insurance
• Identify Theft Protection
• Enhanced Legal Services
• Auto and Home Insurance
• Pet Insurance
• Commuter Benefits
• Hospital Indemnity Insurance
• Educational Assistance

The above statements describe the general nature and level of work only. The statements do not represent an exhaustive list of required responsibilities and skills. Other duties may be added or this job description may be amended at any time. This job description does not alter an employee's at-will employment status or create an employment agreement or contract, implied or otherwise.