Portable Outside Machinist

ARC Services (Veteran Owned); New London (CT); On-site; USD 34,440 - 55,104; Full time

Job summary

ARC Services (Veteran Owned) is seeking a Portable Outside Machinist to support machining operations in shipyard and industrial environments. The ideal candidate will perform tasks using portable equipment, read mechanical drawings, and ensure safety and quality standards. The role requires at least 2+ years of relevant experience, including working with lathes and mills. Working conditions involve various environments and physical requirements. Competitive hourly rates based on experience.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2+ years of machining or mechanical experience in a machine shop or field/portable machining environment.
• Knowledge of industrial safety standards and PPE requirements.
• Willingness to work all shifts, including nights and weekends.

Responsibilities

• Perform shipboard and field machining tasks in industrial and shipyard environments.
• Install, align, and operate portable machining equipment.
• Read and interpret mechanical drawings and blueprints.

Skills

Machining theory (feeds, speeds, tooling, tolerances)

Precision measuring instruments

Reading blueprints and mechanical drawings

Hands-on experience with lathes and mills

Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Portable machining equipment

Micrometers

Calipers

Depth gauges

Thread gauges

Job description

Job Title: Portable Outside Machinist

Location: Groton, CT

Hourly Rate: Competitive; Based on Experience

Summary

We are seeking a skilled Portable / Outside Machinist to support shipyard and industrial field machining operations. This role focuses on on-site and shipboard machining using portable boring, drilling, and milling equipment. The ideal candidate has strong mechanical aptitude, experience working to tight tolerances, and the ability to interpret drawings and perform precision measurements while maintaining strict safety and quality standards.

Responsibilities

• Perform shipboard and field machining tasks in industrial and shipyard environments.
• Install, align, and operate portable machining equipment including boring bars, milling, drilling, and facing systems.
• Conduct on-hull and structural machining work, including internal and external hull applications.
• Set up and operate portable equipment from manufacturers such as Climax, Enerpac, Hydratight, or equivalent systems.
• Read and interpret mechanical drawings, blueprints, and GD&T requirements including dimensions, tolerances, and surface finishes.
• Use precision measuring instruments such as micrometers, calipers, depth gauges, and thread gauges to verify tolerances.
• Apply machining theory including proper speeds, feeds, tooling selection, and cutting practices.
• Accurately complete certification, inspection, and job documentation required for mechanical installations.
• Maintain tools and equipment in safe working condition.
• Follow all site‑specific safety, quality, and environmental requirements.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Minimum of 2+ years of machining or mechanical experience in a machine shop or field/portable machining environment.
• Hands‑on experience with lathes, mills, portable machining equipment, and related tooling.
• Strong understanding of machining theory (feeds, speeds, tooling, tolerances).
• Proficiency using precision measuring instruments.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, mechanical drawings, and technical documentation.
• Knowledge of industrial safety standards and PPE requirements.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Willingness to work all shifts, including nights, weekends, and variable schedules.
• Reliable transportation; ability to travel extensively as required.
• Ability to pass background screening and drug/alcohol testing as required by customers.

Work Environment

• Shipyard, industrial, and marine environments
• Primarily field‑based and shipboard work
• Confined spaces, elevated work areas, and tight‑access machining locations
• Travel required; schedules and shifts may vary by project

Physical Requirements

• Standing, walking, climbing, kneeling, crawling, and working extended shifts
• Lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling tools and equipment up to 50 lbs.
• Reaching, stooping, twisting, and working in varied body positions
• Working at heights and in confined or restricted spaces
• Working indoors and outdoors under varying weather and site conditions
• Navigating uneven, slippery, or industrial surfaces
• Wearing required PPE including hard hats, gloves, eye protection, hearing protection, and respiratory protection when required
• Maintaining situational awareness in active industrial and shipyard environments