Senior Precision Machinist: Manual & CNC Setup Pro

Kratos Unmanned Systems; Auburn Hills (MI); On-site; USD 55,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Kratos Defense in Auburn Hills, MI is seeking a highly skilled Machinist to produce precision parts using manual equipment, with occasional CNC support for trials and offsets. You will read drawings, apply GD&T, set up lathes and mills, and ensure parts meet tight tolerances and quality standards.

You’ll mentor junior machinists, contribute to 6S and continuous improvement, uphold safety, and support prototype and small‑batch work on a fast‑paced shop floor in a defense‑or aerospace‑level

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 10+ years of hands‑on machining experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong proficiency with manual machining equipment (Bridgeport mills, lathes, grinders).
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and GD&T.
• Experience with precision measurement tools & inspection layouts.

Responsibilities

• Support daily machining of parts to meet quality, delivery, and safety expectations.
• Setup and operate manual machines (Bridgeport mills, lathes, grinders, surface grinders, drill presses, saws, EDM).
• Support CNC machining through setup, prove-outs, offsets, and minor program edits as needed.
• Serve as go‑to technical resource on the shop floor for complex machining challenges.
• Read and interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, and work instructions.
• Machine parts to tight tolerances and quality standards.
• Perform in‑process inspections using calipers, micrometers, indicators, and gauges.
• Troubleshoot machining issues related to tooling, fixturing, and processes.
• Mentor junior machinists and support training on safe machining practices.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area.
• Follow safety, quality, and compliance procedures.
• Support continuous improvement, 6S, and process optimization efforts.

Skills

Machining experience

Reading blueprints

GD&T understanding

Problem solving

Safety mindset

Education

High school diploma

Tools

Bridgeport mills

Lathes

Grinders

Surface grinders

Drill presses

EDM

Job description

Kratos Defense in Auburn Hills, MI is seeking a highly skilled Machinist to produce precision parts using manual equipment, with occasional CNC support for trials and offsets. You will read drawings, apply GD&T, set up lathes and mills, and ensure parts meet tight tolerances and quality standards.

You’ll mentor junior machinists, contribute to 6S and continuous improvement, uphold safety, and support prototype and small‑batch work on a fast‑paced shop floor in a defense‑or aerospace‑level