Manual Machinist

Riggs Cat; Little Rock (AR); On-site; USD 42,000 - 58,000; Full time

Job summary

Riggs Cat is seeking a Manual Machinist to set up and operate manually controlled machines, fabricate and repair precision components, and ensure high-quality workmanship with minimal supervision.

You will read blueprints, use micrometers and calipers, and select appropriate tooling while adhering to ISO standards and safety policies. The role requires strong attention to detail and effective communication within the team.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 3–5 years of manual machinist experience preferred.
• Proficiency reading blueprints and technical drawings.
• Strong safety and quality focus with attention to detail.
• Ability to follow verbal, written, and diagrammed instructions accurately.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate manual machines (lathes, milling machines, drill presses, grinders).
• Read blueprints, sketches, and specs to determine machining requirements.
• Use precision measuring tools to ensure tight tolerances and accuracy.
• Select and secure workpieces, tooling, and attachments per safety standards.
• Fabricate or modify machine components from metal, plastics, and composites.
• Identify improvements to improve efficiency and accuracy.

Skills

Manual machining

Blueprint reading

Quality inspection

Independent work

Team communication

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Micrometers

Calipers

Gauges

Job description

Description
The

The Manual Machinist is responsible for setting up and operating manually controlled machines to fabricate, modify, and repair precision parts and equipment. This role requires expertise in reading blueprints, using precision measuring tools, and ensuring high-quality craftsmanship under minimal supervision.

What You’ll Do

• Set up and operate manual machines, including lathes, milling machines, drill presses, and grinders.


• Read and interpret blueprints, sketches, and specifications to determine machining requirements.


• Use precision measuring instruments such as micrometers, calipers, and gauges to ensure accuracy and adherence to tight tolerances.


• Select, align, secure, and remove workpieces, tooling, and attachments following safety and quality standards.


• Fabricate, modify, and repair machine components from metal, plastics, and composite materials.


• Recognize and utilize proper cutting tools, inserts, fixtures, and work-holding devices for efficient machining.


• Perform routine maintenance, cleaning, and inspection of machinery and tools to ensure optimal performance.


• Identify and recommend improvements to machining processes for increased efficiency and accuracy.


• Track parts and job progress using the Vantage system or other shop tracking tools.


• Follow ISO requirements, safety protocols, and company quality standards to ensure compliance with regulations and policies.

Requirements

What You’ll Need:

• High school diploma or GED required; 3-5 years of experience as a Manual Machinist preferred.


• Strong understanding of manual machining techniques, including lathe and milling operations.


• Proficiency in reading and interpreting blueprints, technical drawings, and measuring tools.


• Commitment to safety and quality, with a strong attention to detail.


• Ability to follow verbal, written, and diagrammed instructions accurately.


• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision.


• Effective and professional communication skills with team members and customers.


• Experience with machine maintenance, tooling selection, and process improvements is a plus.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to stand and walk, and may also experience frequent bending, reaching and lifting of objects weighing up to 25 lbs and occasionally up to 50 lbs. Employee will perform tasks while experiencing numerous interruptions. Hours are normally first shift, but weekend, holiday and evening work may be required according to your department's needs.
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
The noise level in the work environment is moderate to high.
Required travel up to 10%.
The Job description is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.

Hourly/Non-Exempt

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information.