Machinist II

Dakotalandmfg; Watertown (SD); On-site; USD 22,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Dakotaland Manufacturing in Watertown, SD is seeking a skilled machinist to setup and operate CNC lathes, milling machines, and traditional shop tools. You may oversee a level I machinist and ensure parts meet specifications through precise measurement.

The role emphasizes blueprint reading, teamwork, quality, and safety in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. A high school diploma or GED is required; advanced technical education is a plus, with 3–5 years of experience preferred.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Advanced technical education a plus.

Responsibilities

• Align and secure holding fixtures, cutting tools, attachments, or materials onto machines.
• Select tools, machines and materials for machining tasks.
• Monitor feed and speed during machining processes.
• Machine parts to specifications using lathes, mills, shapers, or grinders.
• Set up, adjust, and operate basic and some advanced machine tools for precision work.
• Measure and inspect finished parts with precision instruments (e.g., micrometers).
• Set controls to regulate machining or enter commands for CNC media.
• Position and fasten work pieces; ensure proper lubrication or cooling.
• Clean and lubricate machines and tools; dispose of scrap per policy.
• Oversee and may direct Level I machinists.

Skills

Blueprint reading

Teamwork

Quality focus

Communication

Learning mindset

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Job Details: Job Location: North Facility - Watertown, SD, Salary Range: Undisclosed,

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

This position produces machined parts and components by setting up, and operating computer numerical control, vertical mills, lathes, and traditional conventional machines. May direct and oversee work of level I machinist.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Essential functions are those tasks, duties, and responsibilities that comprise the means of accomplishing the jobs purpose and objectives. Essential functions are critical or fundamental to the performance of the job. They are the major functions for which the person in the job is held accountable.

• Align and secure holding fixtures, cutting tools, attachments, accessories, or materials onto machines.
• Select the appropriate tools, machines, and materials to be used in preparation of machinery work
• Monitor the feed and speed of machines during the machining process.
• Machine parts to specifications, using machine tools, such as lathes, milling machines, shapers, or grinders.
• Set up, adjust, and operate all of the basic machine tools and many specialized or advanced variation tools to perform precision machining operations.
• Measure, examine, or test completed units to check for defects and ensure conformance to specifications, using precision instruments, such as micrometers.
• Set controls to regulate machining, or enter commands to retrieve, input, or edit computerized machine control media.
• Position and fasten work pieces.
• Check work pieces to ensure that they are properly lubricated or cooled.
• Operate equipment to verify operational efficiency.
• Clean and lubricate machines, tools, and equipment to remove grease, rust, stains, and foreign matter.
• Dispose of scrap or waste material in accordance with company policies and environmental regulations.
• Separate scrap waste and related materials for reuse, recycling, or disposal
• May direct and oversee work of level I machinist.

Qualifications:

High school diploma or GED is required.

Advanced technical education a plus.

EDUCATION & TRAINING REQUIREMENTS

High school diploma or GED is required.

Advanced technical education a plus.

WORK EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• Minimum of 3-5 experience in a manufacturing environment is preferred.
• Basic ability to read and understand blueprints and other shop drawing aids.
• Ability to work with various types of metal forming constraints with guidance.
• Flexible and responsive with a strong teamwork orientation.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Desire to learn new skills and improve technical knowledge.
• Ability to work well in a fast paced environment to meet team expectations.
• Commitment to quality and accuracy of work performed.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively implement or respond to change.
• Understanding and support of Dakotaland Manufacturing policies and procedures.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS PHYSICAL & MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

Note: Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear.

The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms.

The employee is occasionally required to sit; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl.

The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 40 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 40 pounds.

Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

Normal memory, taking into consideration the amount and type of information.

Work environment involves some exposure to hazards or physical risks, which require following basic safety precautions. Work in this environment requires the use of safety glasses and work boots.

COMPETENCIES

• Problem Solving - Identifies and resolves problems time efficiently; Gathers and analyzes information; Develops solutions; Works well in group problem solving situations; Uses reason.
• Communication and Teamwork - Shows respect and sensitivity for cultural differences; Promotes a harassment-free environment.
• Motivation -Sets and achieves goals; Demonstrates persistence and overcomes obstacles; Measures self against standard of excellence; Takes calculated risks to accomplish goals.
• Time Management - Prioritizes and plans work activities; Uses time efficiently; Organizes or schedules other people and their tasks; Develops realistic action plans.
• Adaptability - Adapts to changes in the work environment; Manages competing demands; Changes approach or method to best fit the situation; Able to handle frequent change, delays, or unexpected events.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Work may involve moderate exposure to unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises.