Prototype Machinist

The Specialty Manufacturing Company; White Bear Lake (MN); On-site; USD 34,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) profit sharing

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Vacation and Wellness Time

On-the-job training and advancement

Job summary

The Specialty Mfg. Co. is seeking a Prototype Machinist to set up and operate manual and CNC equipment to produce precision tooling, fixtures, and prototype parts.

You will program, set up, and inspect using GD&T and various measuring tools, collaborating with Engineering, Production, and Maintenance. The role emphasizes independent setup, CNC programming, and improving manufacturing processes in a fast-paced ISO-certified environment.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated proficiency in BOTH manual and CNC machining; able to independently set up, machine, and inspect.
• 5+ years of hands-on machining experience with manual and CNC equipment; prototype and short-run focus.
• Ability to create/edit CNC programs, interpret G-code, establish offsets, and prove out new programs.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate manual mills, lathes, grinders, drill presses, and other toolroom equipment to produce precision components.
• Program, set up, and operate CNC mills and lathes; establish offsets, tooling, and verify programs.
• Build, modify, and repair jigs, fixtures, tooling, gauges, and components from drawings or engineering direction.
• Read drawings, GD&T, tolerances and specs; determine machining sequences and workholding.
• Machine prototype and short-run parts in metals and plastics meeting dimensional, surface finish, and delivery requirements.
• Inspect completed and in-process work using micrometers, calipers, indicators, bore gauges, and height gauges.

Skills

Manual & CNC machining

G-code interpretation

GD&T reading

Blueprint reading

Quality inspection

Education

High school diploma or GED

Technical diploma or apprenticeship in machining

Tools

CAD/CAM Software

Measuring instruments (micrometers, calipers)

Job description

The Specialty Mfg. Co. is large enough to produce standard products at scale, yet flexible enough to deliver superior-quality custom products at competitive prices. No two days are the same, and each day brings new opportunities to solve problems, build tooling, and support manufacturing. Our facility is clean, well-ventilated, and committed to quality, efficiency, and safety within an ISO-certified manufacturing environment.

Position Overview

The Prototype Machinist sets up and operates both manual and CNC equipment to produce, modify, and repair precision tooling, fixtures, gauges, prototype parts, and machine components. This position requires proficiency in both manual and CNC machining, including independent setup, CNC programming, and dimensional inspection. The role works with Engineering, Production, and Maintenance to solve manufacturing problems, support new product development, and improve equipment reliability and manufacturing processes.

Essential Job Duties

• Set up and operate manual mills, lathes, surface grinders, drill presses, and other toolroom equipment to produce precision components.
• Program, set up, and operate CNC mills and lathes; establish work offsets, select tooling, prove out programs, and adjust feeds, speeds, and tool offsets.
• Build, modify, and repair jigs, fixtures, tooling, gauges, and machine components from drawings, sketches, samples, or engineering direction.
• Read and interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, tolerances, and specifications; determine machining sequences and appropriate workholding methods.
• Machine prototype and short-run parts in metals and plastics while meeting dimensional, surface finish, and delivery requirements.
• Inspect completed and in-process work using micrometers, calipers, indicators, bore gauges, height gauges, and other precision measuring equipment.
• Troubleshoot machining, tooling, and fit issues; collaborate with Engineering, Production, and Maintenance to identify and implement practical solutions.
• Assist with assembly, fitting, and functional verification of tooling and fixtures; recommend improvements to manufacturability and tool life.
• Maintain accurate setup information, program revisions, and job documentation; care for equipment, cutting tools, and measuring instruments.
• Follow machine safety procedures, maintain an organized work area, and complete routine equipment care; report unsafe conditions and equipment issues.
• Any other duties as assigned by management.

Education

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Technical diploma, apprenticeship, or equivalent training in machining, toolmaking, or CNC manufacturing preferred.

Skills and Qualifications

• Demonstrated proficiency in BOTH manual and CNC machining required; ability to independently complete setup, machining, and inspection.
• 5+ years of machining experience, including hands-on experience with both manual and CNC equipment; toolroom, prototype, and precision short-run experience preferred.
• Ability to create and edit CNC programs, interpret G-code, establish offsets, and safely prove out new programs; CAD/CAM experience preferred.
• Strong understanding of blueprint reading, GD&T, machining mathematics, tolerances, and surface finish requirements.
• Knowledge of cutting tools, materials, feeds and speeds, workholding, and machining processes for metals and plastics.
• Proficiency with precision measuring instruments and ability to verify parts against drawing requirements.
• Strong mechanical aptitude, troubleshooting skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage changing priorities with limited supervision.
• Clear communication and ability to work effectively with Engineering, Production, Maintenance, and other team members.

Work Environment

• Work is performed in a manufacturing and toolroom environment with exposure to noise, metal chips, cutting fluids, heat, and moving machinery. Required personal protective equipment must be worn.
• Ability to lift and move up to 50 lbs. as needed, using appropriate lifting techniques and assistance or lifting equipment when required.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods, bend and reach, handle tools and components, and perform close visual inspection, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Benefits

• Hourly pay of $25-$40, depending on experience; weekly pay.
• 401(k) profit sharing, with an annual company contribution of up to 25%.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance; company-paid life, AD&D, and disability insurance.
• Vacation and Wellness Time; an average of 9 paid holidays annually.
• On-the-job training and opportunities for advancement.