Prototype & Tooling Machinist

DRT Holdings; Meriden (CT); On-site; USD 78,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Day 1 Benefits & 401K Company Match

Paid time off and holidays + Floating

Training and professional development

Tuition Reimbursement Program

Stable, growing aerospace environment

Job summary

DRT Aerospace in Meriden, CT is seeking an experienced Prototype & Tooling Machinist to design, build, repair, and refine precision tooling and fixtures in a true toolroom.

You will set up CNC lathes and mills, read blueprints with GD&T, verify tolerances with precision instruments, and collaborate with Engineering, Quality, and Production to improve tooling. This role emphasizes craftsmanship, problem-solving, and safety.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of Tool Making, Tool & Die, Precision Machining, or related experience.
• Strong CNC milling and turning experience.
• Ability to machine parts independently from print to finished product.
• Experience reading blueprints and applying GD&T principles.
• Strong understanding of tight-tolerance machining and manufacturing processes.
• Experience using precision measuring and inspection equipment.

Responsibilities

• Build, repair, modify, and maintain tooling, fixtures, jigs, gauges, and production equipment.
• Set up and operate CNC lathes, VTLs, milling machines, and 5-axis machining centers.
• Machine parts from blueprints through final completion.
• Support production operations as needed while maintaining toolroom priorities.
• Read and interpret blueprints, GD&T, and engineering drawings.
• Verify dimensions using precision measuring equipment including micrometers, indicators, and height gages.
• Troubleshoot tooling and machining issues to improve performance and reliability.
• Partner with Engineering, Quality, and Production teams to develop tooling solutions and process improvements.
• Maintain high standards for safety, quality, and workmanship.

Skills

Tool making

CNC milling

CNC turning

GD&T

Blueprint reading

Mechanical aptitude

Problem solving

Tools

Bullard VTLs

Okuma Horizontal Lathe

Okuma TVL

Nakamura Lathes

Matsuura

Niigata

Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Prototype & Tooling Machinist

Mfg Supervision FT REG-V2 2WKS@HIRE Craft Workers Meriden, CT, US

2 days ago Requisition ID: 2306

Pay: Weekly & Competitive Pay + Shift Differential + Day 1 Benefits & 401K

Location: Meriden, CT

Shift Available: 2nd Shift | Monday - Friday | 3:00 PM - 11:30 PM EST

DRT Aerospace is seeking an experienced Prototype & Tooling Machinist to support our aerospace manufacturing operations by building, repairing, and improving precision tooling, fixtures, gauges, and prototype components. This is not a production-only machining role. You'll work in a true toolroom environment where craftsmanship, creativity, and problem-solving are valued. From prototype development to tooling solutions that support critical aerospace programs, your work will directly impact manufacturing performance and product quality.

Why Join DRT Aerospace?

At DRT Aerospace, you'll be part of a team that manufactures critical aerospace components for industry-leading customers. We invest in our people, promote internal growth, and provide opportunities to make a meaningful impact on operational success.

Benefits Include:

• Day 1 Benefits & 401K Company Match
• Paid time off and holidays + Floating Holiday
• Training and professional development
• Tuition Reimbursement Program
• Stable, growing aerospace manufacturing environment

What You'll Do

• Build, repair, modify, and maintain tooling, fixtures, jigs, gauges, and production equipment
• Set up and operate CNC lathes, VTLs, milling machines, and 5-axis machining centers
• Machine parts from blueprints through final completion
• Support production operations as needed while maintaining toolroom priorities
• Read and interpret blueprints, GD&T, and engineering drawings
• Verify dimensions using precision measuring equipment including micrometers, indicators, and height gages
• Troubleshoot tooling and machining issues to improve performance and reliability
• Partner with Engineering, Quality, and Production teams to develop tooling solutions and process improvements
• Maintain high standards for safety, quality, and workmanship

What We’re Looking For

• 5+ years of Tool Making, Tool & Die, Precision Machining, or related manufacturing experience
• Strong CNC milling and turning experience
• Ability to machine parts independently from print to finished product
• Experience reading blueprints and applying GD&T principles
• Strong understanding of tight-tolerance machining and manufacturing processes
• Experience using precision measuring and inspection equipment
• Excellent mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Aerospace manufacturing experience
• AS9100 manufacturing environment experience
• CNC setup, programming, or advanced troubleshooting experience
• Experience with large VTL machines
• Experience with multi-axis machining centers

Equipment Experience a Plus

• Turning |Bullard VTLs, Okuma Horizontal Lathes, Okuma TVL, Nakamura Lathes
• Milling |Matsuura, Niigata, 5-Axis Machining Centers

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the workday.
• Frequently lift, carry, push, and/or pull up to 35 pounds; occasional lifting up to 50 pounds with assistance.
• Frequent use of hands for machine operation, tooling changes, and inspection activities.
• Ability to safely work around moving mechanical equipment and manufacturing processes.
• Visual acuity required for inspection of precision components and reading technical documentation.

Work Environment

This position works in a manufacturing environment where exposure to machine noise, metal chips, cutting fluids, oils, and moving equipment is common. Required personal protective equipment (PPE) must be worn at all times when required.

ITAR and DRT Aerospace

DRT Aerospace supports customers in the aerospace and defense industries and complies with all applicable U.S. export control regulations. This position may involve access to export-controlled information, technology, products, or technical data. As a result, employment is contingent upon the successful verification of eligibility to access such information in accordance with applicable U.S. laws and regulations, including International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) .

Candidates will be required to provide documentation supporting their eligibility if selected for employment.

#Aerospace

Keywords: Tool Maker, Tool & Die Maker, CNC Machinist, Precision Machinist, CNC Milling, CNC Turning, VTL Machinist, 5-Axis Machining, Aerospace Manufacturing, Toolroom Machinist, Fixture Builder, Jig Grinder, Okuma, Matsuura, Niigata, GD&T, Blueprint Reading, Precision Machining, Multi-Axis Machining.

2nd Shift | Monday - Friday | 3:00 PM - 11:30 PM EST