Spirit Defense - Experienced Machine Operator

Spirit Defense, A Boeing Company; Wichita (KS); On-site; USD 34,440 - 59,236; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Union represented

Drug Free Workplace

Job summary

Spirit AeroSystems, Inc. in Wichita, KS is seeking a CNC Machine Operator to set up, operate, and inspect parts on CNC and conventional machines, following drawings and specifications to ensure on-time delivery of high‑quality components.

The role requires a DoD clearance, willingness to work any shift, and at least two years operating 4- and 5-axis CNC machines, with experience on Okuma osp-300 controllers and hard metals, in a union environment.

Qualifications

• Active DoD clearance required.
• Willingness to work any shift, including weekends.
• Minimum 2 years operating 4-axis and 5-axis CNC machines.
• Experience with Okuma osp-300 controller preferred.
• Experience with hard metals.

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, and inspect parts on conventional and CNC machines to ensure timely production and quality.
• Work from drawings, specs, quality requirements, and procedures.
• Perform multi-tasking on multiple machines as needed.
• Verify dimensions with measurement tools and maintain certifications.
• Carry out basic preventative maintenance and tool changes.
• Move product within the shop and transfer between operations.
• Train and assist lower‑classified employees and cross‑train in inspection.
• Prepare quality records and document nonconforming conditions for MRB.
• Ensure compliance with processes through surveillance and documentation.

Skills

DoD clearance

CNC operation

4-axis CNC

5-axis CNC

Tools

Okuma osp-300 controller

Hard metals machining

Job description

Spirit AeroSystems, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of The Boeing Company, invites applications for a CNC Machine Operator position within its Defense Business Unit. The role focuses on precision machining, quality assurance, and production support for defense and aerospace customers.

Position Responsibilities

• Team with others to set‑up, operate, and inspect parts on conventional and Computerized Numerical Controlled (CNC) machines to ensure timely production and delivery of quality products.
• Work from drawings, documents, process specifications, quality control requirements, and established procedures.
• Perform multi‑tasking and multi‑machine operation when applicable.
• Operate conventional or CNC machinery, ensuring product and process quality through monitoring and verification methodologies.
• Execute related functions to provide complete hardware in accordance with engineering specifications, including deburring, milling, drilling, boring, honing, grinding, and fastening.
• Carry out routine minor machine maintenance (e.g., replace filters, change lightbulbs, maintain lubrication/coolant levels) as part of basic Total Preventative Maintenance duties.
• Move product within the manufacturing area, including across aisles, using assigned shop equipment, and complete necessary transactions to transfer product to the next operation.
• Support continuous product flow by training and assisting lower‑classified employees.
• Cross‑train in inspection and become SIA qualified.
• Set up and operate CNC and conventional equipment independently to perform complex or precision operations.
• Use mechanical and electronic measurement tools to verify dimensions of parts; maintain required personal certifications.
• Perform complete inspection, including first part review of procured or fabricated parts and assemblies.
• Initiate and document non‑conforming conditions for Material Review Board action.
• Conduct process surveillance to assure compliance with requirements and prepare/maintain quality records.

Basic Qualifications

• Active DoD clearance required.
• Willingness and ability to work any shift, including alternative work weeks and some weekends.

Preferred Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of experience operating 4‑axis and 5‑axis CNC machines.
• Experience with Okuma osp‑300 controller preferred.
• Experience with hard metals.

Union

This is a union‑represented position.

Drug Free Workplace

We are a Drug Free Workplace and subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria are met as outlined in our policies.

Pay & Benefits

Competitive base pay ranging from $25.09 to $43.13 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications, in accordance with the relevant collective bargaining agreement. Eligible employees may enroll in health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance, and additional programs for paid and unpaid time away from work.

Security Clearance

Requires an active U.S. Secret Security Clearance and U.S. citizenship. A clearance active within the past 24 months is considered current.

Visa Sponsorship

Employer will not sponsor applicants for employment visa status.

Export Control Requirements

Position must meet export control compliance requirements, including 120.15. A “U.S. Person” (U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee) is required.

Boeing is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.