Manufacturing Trainee (CNC Machining)

RTC Aerospace; Fife (WA); On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aerospace manufacturer in Fife, WA, seeks a Manufacturing Trainee. This entry-level position provides hands-on experience in machining, including operating CNC and Manual Mills. Ideal candidates should have mechanical aptitude, basic math skills, and a willingness to learn in a team-oriented environment. Compensation ranges from $20 to $22 per hour based on experience, along with benefits such as medical, dental, and 401(k).

Benefits

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

401(k) with company match

Qualifications

• Strong attention to detail for ensuring precision and quality.
• Basic rotational and machine competence.
• Willingness and ability to learn new skills.

Responsibilities

• Operate CNC and Manual Mills as part of machine shop operations.
• Inspect parts for quality and maintain accurate records.
• Follow established safety and quality procedures.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Basic math skills

Ability to follow instructions

Basic computer skills

Physical stamina

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Willingness to learn

Understanding of workplace safety

Tools

CNC Mill

Manual Mill

Forklift

Job description

Job Description

About RTC Aerospace :

At RTC, we believe in teamwork, excellence, and delivering with pride. One Team! One Mission!

RTC Aerospace is a 60-year-old aerospace manufacturer of complex, high-tolerance, difficult-to-machine parts. We have 4 facilities across the nation bringing exceptional cellular manufacturing capabilities and unique engineered solutions to our clients’ designed products. We are a company driven by ambitious individuals, working together to become an industry leader in lean-cell manufacturing. Come be a part of something exceptional at RTC Aerospace!

How You’ll Make an Impact

The Manufacturing Trainee actively participates in the machine shop operations developing essential skills under the supervision and guidance of our leadership team and other designated staff. This entry‑level position involves hands‑on training with a variety of machining equipment including Amada Saw, Manual and CNC Mills / Lathes, forklift etc. This position requires an eager individual, excited to learn and grow with our organization!

What you’ll be doing as a Manufacturing Trainee :

• Working a Full-time, onsite position at our Fife, WA location.
• Receive training and learn to properly use a CNC Mill / Lathe, Manual Mill / Lathe, Amada Saw, etc.
• Set-up and operate said machine for specific parts.
• Load and unload parts on various machines.
• Perform deburring of parts and other precision tasks.
• Inspect parts for quality and compliance with specifications.
• Ensure accurate setup and operation to produce components.
• Receive training and learn to perform regular checks on machines to ensure they meet operational standards.
• Manage the dumping and recycling of chips into designated bins.
• Follow established safety and quality procedures and standards.
• Complete pre‑shift equipment inspection checklists and report issues.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
• Ensure equipment is safe to operate and work environment is tidy.
• Maintain accurate production records.
• Document daily activities and any issues encountered during operations.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications (Education, skills, and experience) :

• Mechanical aptitude or interest in mechanics.
• Basic math and measurement skills.
• Ability to follow detailed instructions and work under supervision.
• Basic computer skills for data entry or accessing instructions.
• Physical stamina for standing and lifting (up to 50 pounds).
• Strong attention to detail for ensuring precision and quality.
• Basic verbal and written communication skills.
• Teamwork and reliability.
• Willingness to learn and develop new skills.
• Basic understanding of workplace safety and adherence to safety protocols.

Preferred Qualifications (Education, skills, and experience) :

• Prior exposure to a manufacturing, machining, or technical training environment.
• Experience or coursework in machining, manufacturing technology, or related trades (high school, ROP, or vocational program).
• Familiarity with hand tools, calipers, micrometers, or other precision measuring instruments.
• Forklift experience or certification.
• Understanding of shop floor processes such as setup, tooling, and basic machine operation.
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles or continuous improvement concepts.
• Basic understanding of blueprint reading or GD&T fundamentals.
• Demonstrated dependability and initiative in previous work or academic settings.
• Interest in pursuing a long‑term career in aerospace manufacturing or CNC machining.

Physical Demands :

The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to do the following :

• Ability to lift or move up to 50lbs.
• Reach forward, up, down and to the side in order to move equipment.
• Continuous standing and walking throughout the workday.
• Ability to reach with hands and arms; use hands to manipulate, handle, or feel material.
• Access, input, and retrieve information from a computer.

Work Environment :

A large percentage of work time is spent in a machine shop where temperatures vary from hot to cold. The environment may also include exposure to noise, dust, fumes, vapor from coolant, etc. Industry standard safety equipment is provided by the Company, and specific notice is posted in areas where safety equipment is required.

Compensation and Benefits :

Employee Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance, long‑term disability and 401(k) with up to 6% QACA company match.

The Manufacturing Trainee Compensation range for onsite Washington applicants is $20‑22 / hr. commensurate with experience. Some shifts may include shift differential pay rates. Other site ranges may differ.

Please note 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.

This position must meet Export Control compliance requirements, therefore a “US Person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.15 is required.

RTC is an Equal Opportunity / Afffirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex including sexual orientation and gender identity, national origin, disability, protected Veteran Status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Affirmative Action and Disability Accommodation Applicants wishing to receive information on RTC’s Afffirmative Action Plans, or applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in the application and / or interview process, please contact the RTC Human Resources Department. If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you have the right to request an accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access our career center as a result of your disability. To request an accommodation, contact the RTC Human Resources Department. Candidates will receive consideration without discrimination in accordance with the requirements of article 9 to chapter XVIII of the City of Los Angeles Municipal Code, federal and state laws of California.