Manual Machinist II

Kymera International; Chesapeake (VA); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous Time Off

Healthcare Savings Accounts

401(k) retirement plan with company match

Insurance coverage including short-term disability and life insurance

Supportive team culture

Job summary

A manufacturing solutions provider in Chesapeake is seeking a Machinist II responsible for operating large lathes and grinding equipment. This role involves preparing naval propulsion shafts for thermal spraying and ensuring precise machining standards are met. Candidates should have at least 4 years of experience, the ability to interpret engineering drawings, and a commitment to quality and safety. The position offers competitive pay, benefits, and an opportunity to grow within a supportive team environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 4 years of hands-on experience in operating large lathes and precision grinding.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications.
• Strong knowledge of machining processes and tooling.
• Experience in troubleshooting basic machine malfunctions.

Responsibilities

• Operate large lathes and perform grinding operations to meet specifications.
• Read blueprints to ensure proper machining processes are followed.
• Setup machines for different operations, ensuring proper alignment.
• Inspect machined parts for quality using precision measuring tools.

Skills

Operating large lathes

Precision grinding operations

Reading engineering drawings

Using precision measuring instruments

Troubleshooting machine malfunctions

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Adaptability

Safety awareness

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Technical certification or associate degree in Machining, Engineering, or related field

Tools

Micrometers

Calipers

Surface grinders

Cylindrical grinders

Job description

Description

Job Title: Machinist II
Classification: Full-time, Hourly Non-Exempt
Reports To: Production Manager
Location: Kymera – Thermal Spray Solutions

Job Overview

The Machinist II is responsible for operating large lathe and grinding equipment to support repairs to naval propulsion shafts and large commercial hydraulic rods. The primary duties of the machinist will be to prepare propulsion shafts and hydraulic rods for the purpose of thermal spraying, utilize industrial cranes and hoist operation to move and position equipment to be rough machine for the thermal spray process and precision grind to finial dimensions by utilizing micrometers and other required calibration instruments. Final machining is done by tool-post grinding operations (e.g., precision grinding). Use of various hand‑held and stationary power and non‑power tools, including but not limited to band saws, belt sanders, hand grinders, files, etc. will be required in support of set up operations.

Responsibilities

• Lathe Operation: Operate large lathes to perform precise machining tasks, ensuring parts meet required specifications.
• Grinding Operations: Perform grinding operations to finish parts to precise dimensions, including setup and operation of surface grinders and cylindrical grinders.
• Blueprint Interpretation: Read and interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications to ensure proper machining processes are followed.
• Machine Setup: Set up and adjust machines for different operations, ensuring proper alignment, tooling, and settings are in place.
• Quality Control: Inspect machined parts for quality and accuracy, using precision measuring tools (e.g., micrometers, calipers) to ensure parts meet customer and company standards.
• Machine Maintenance: Perform routine maintenance and minor repairs on machines to ensure optimal performance and prevent downtime.
• Troubleshooting: Identify and troubleshoot operational issues with machinery, tooling, or processes to resolve problems and minimize delays.
• Safety Compliance: Adhere to all safety protocols and procedures, ensuring a safe work environment.
• Documentation: Complete necessary documentation for all work orders and machine operations, ensuring data is accurately entered into the system.

Flexibility and Adaptability to Change: Perform other related duties as assigned. This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

• Lifting and Hoisting: Safely lift or hoist workpieces as needed.
• Work Area Maintenance: Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area at all times.
• Maintain Calibration: Learn to utilize calibrated measuring instruments – as well as inspect for good order and use at every use.
• ISO 9001 Certification: Learn, Practice and Understand the customer satisfaction and on-time delivery process.
• Leadership and Training: Provide leadership and training to Machinists levels I.

Benefits Summary

At Kymera International - Thermal Spray Solutions, we provide a competitive benefits package to support your health, well‑being, and financial security, including:

• Generous Time Off: 11 annual company‑paid holidays and PTO.
• Healthcare Savings: Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), Health Savings Accounts (HSA), and comprehensive dental and vision coverage.
• Retirement Support: 401(k) plan with a competitive company match.
• Insurance Coverage: Company‑paid short‑term disability and life insurance, with additional voluntary options like critical illness, hospital care, and long‑term disability coverage.
• Competitive pay.
• Team Benefits: A supportive team culture and resources to help you thrive.

We are dedicated to helping you live your best life, both professionally and personally. Benefits are reviewed annually.

Requirements

Required Skills and Abilities

• Proficiency in operating large lathes and performing precision grinding operations in a machine shop environment, with a minimum of 4 years of hands‑on experience.
• Proficient in reading and interpreting engineering drawings and technical specifications.
• Strong knowledge of machining processes, tooling, and material properties, with the ability to apply this understanding to optimize machining operations and ensure quality output.
• Proficient in using precision measuring instruments, including micrometers, calipers, and gauges, to ensure accurate machining.
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot and resolve basic machine malfunctions and process issues in a machining environment.
• Attention to detail and commitment to producing high‑quality components.
• Good communication skills to collaborate effectively with team members.
• Ability to thrive in the dynamic environment of a small company, where roles are flexible and often blend responsibilities across multiple positions is required. This requires a high degree of adaptability, the ability to manage rapid change, and a willingness to step into different roles as needed to support the company's growth and success.
• Safety awareness and commitment to maintaining a safe and efficient work environment.
• Ability to pass a pre‑employment criminal background check, drug‑screen, eye exam, hearing exam, and respirator test (health screenings required if applicable for job safety compliance purposes).

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required; technical certification or an associate degree in Machining, Engineering, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in large lathe operation and grinding within a production or machine shop environment.
• Experience with precision measuring instruments, such as micrometers, calipers, and gauges.
• Previous experience in a fast‑paced repair or manufacturing environment is required; experience in a machine shop setting is strongly preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, and perform repetitive manual tasks for extended periods.
• Strength to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds unassisted.
• Capability to perform physical tasks such as bending, kneeling, crouching, and reaching.
• Coordination and manual dexterity to safely operate machinery, tools, and equipment while maintaining focus on ergonomics and safety.
• Ability to work safely in environments with potential exposure to dust, fumes, and noise.
• Ability to wear and work comfortably in required personal protective equipment (PPE) including but not limited to steel‑toe boots, for prolonged periods.

When requested by employees, and when possible, reasonable accommodations may be provided to help individuals with disabilities perform their essential job functions. Kymera is an Equal Opportunity Employer, encouraging diversity in the workplace. EOE: race/color/religion/sex/sexual orientation/gender identity/national origin/disability.