Manual Machinist

Specialized Talent Acquisition Recruiting Team (START); Shelby Township (MI); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Specialized Talent Acquisition Recruiting Team (START) seeks an experienced Machinist to set up and operate ProtoTRAK SMX milling machines, read blueprints, and optimize tooling and speeds. You will load materials, machine parts, and verify tolerances with precision tools.

The role requires 5+ years in a manufacturing environment, hands-on ProtoTRAK experience, and strong problem-solving skills to support automation and fixture builds. On-site position in Shelby Township, MI.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience as a Machinist in manufacturing or tool & die environments.
• Hands-on experience with ProtoTRAK SMX or similar conversational CNC/manual systems.
• Experience supporting automation equipment, tooling, or fixture builds is strongly preferred.
• Proficient in blueprint reading and geometric tolerancing.
• Solid understanding of cutting tools, tool selection, and speeds/feeds optimization.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate ProtoTRAK SMX milling machines, including fixtures, tooling, and workholding devices.
• Program or edit ProtoTRAK conversations to complete machining operations.
• Load raw materials and securely fixture parts for milling operations.
• Inspect machined parts with calipers, micrometers, and height gauges to ensure tolerances.
• Troubleshoot machining issues, tool wear, and setup challenges; implement corrective actions.
• Coordinate with engineering and vendors on tooling and equipment builds.

Skills

ProtoTRAK SMX

Machine setup

Blueprint reading

Geometric tolerancing

Tooling selection

Speeds & feeds

Quality inspection

Machining operations

Education

Machining certification

Trade training

Tools

ProtoTRAK SMX

Calipers

Micrometers

Job description

Machine Setup & OperationSet up and operateProtoTRAK SMX milling machines, including installing fixtures, tooling, and workholding devicesProgram or edit ProtoTRAK conversational programs as needed to complete machining operationsLoad raw materials and properly secure parts for machining operationsPerform milling, drilling, boring, tapping, and related machining processesPrint Reading & Job PlanningRead and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and specifications to determine machining methods, sequences, and tolerancesPlan setups, select appropriate tooling, and determine optimal cutting parameters (speeds, feeds, depths)Verify material types and ensure alignment with job requirementsQuality & InspectionInspect machined parts using precision measuring instruments such as calipers, micrometers, height gauges, and indicatorsEnsure finished parts meet dimensional tolerances, surface finish requirements, and quality standardsDocument inspection results as requiredTroubleshooting & Continuous ImprovementMonitor machine performance and make real-time adjustments to maintain part quality and efficiencyTroubleshoot machining issues, tool wear, or setup challenges and implement corrective actionsRecommend process improvements to increase efficiency, reduce scrap, and optimize cycle timesMaintenance & SafetyPerform routine preventative maintenance on machines, including cleaning, lubrication, and basic upkeepMaintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment in compliance with company standards and OSHA guidelinesAdhere to all safety protocols and proper machine operation practicesCollaboration & SupportWork closely with Engineering, Machine Builders, and other team members to support tooling and equipment buildsCommunicate issues, delays, or improvement opportunities to supervisors and project teamsInterface with vendors or customers as needed for technical clarificationQualificationsExperience & EducationMinimum5+ years of experienceas a Machinist in a manufacturing or tool & die environmentHands-on experience withProtoTRAK SMX or similar conversational CNC/manual systemsrequiredExperience supportingautomation equipment, tooling, or fixture buildsstrongly preferredTrade certification or formal machining training is a plusTechnical SkillsStrong knowledge of milling machine setup and operationProficiency in blueprint reading and geometric tolerancingSolid understanding of:- Cutting tools and tool selection- Speeds and feeds optimizationMaterial properties and machining behavior