Toolroom Precision Machinist (Manual)

Northeast Tool & Manufacturing; Matthews (NC); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Benefits package

401(k) with match

Paid holidays

Team environment

Job summary

Northeast Tool & Manufacturing in Matthews, NC, is seeking a Manual Precision Machinist to transform drawings into precision tooling, fixtures, and prototypes for aerospace-focused production.

You will set up and run manual mills, lathes, and grinders, interpret blueprints, and select tooling to achieve tight tolerances. The role emphasizes independent problem solving and safe workplace habits.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in manual machining, toolroom, or toolmaking producing precision tooling, fixtures, jigs, workholding, or prototypes.
• Fluency in reading and interpreting engineering drawings and specifications.
• Solid shop math and working knowledge of GD&T.
• Ability to lift up to 30 lbs. independently and use lifting assistance when needed.

Responsibilities

• Set up and run manual equipment—mills, lathes, surface grinders, and drill presses to produce precision tooling, fixtures, jigs, workholding solutions, and prototype components.
• Study blueprints, sketches, and engineering specifications to choose materials, machining sequences, and methods that meet exacting requirements.
• Select the right cutters and tooling, plan operations, and fine‑tune setups to hit tight dimensional tolerances.
• Design, adapt, and improve tooling and workholding to enable efficient, repeatable production.
• Verify every detail using precision metrology to ensure specifications and tolerances are met.
• Perform finishing and light assembly—deburring, polishing, sandblasting, part marking, and installing threaded inserts.
• Keep workspace clean, safe, and organized while contributing to continuous improvement initiatives.

Skills

GD&T

Reading drawings

Independent work

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Manual Mills

Lathes

Surface Grinders

Shop Equipment

Job description

Step Into the Toolroom: Your Day, Your Craft

At Northeast Tool & Manufacturing, our Toolroom is where ideas become parts that fly. As a Manual Precision Machinist, you’ll spend your day transforming drawings into reality while supporting aerospace production with world‑class tooling and prototypes.

A Day in the Toolroom

• Set up and run manual equipment—mills, lathes, surface grinders, and drill presses to produce precision tooling, fixtures, jigs, workholding solutions, and prototype components.
• Study blueprints, sketches, and engineering specifications to choose materials, machining sequences, and methods that meet exacting requirements.
• Select the right cutters and tooling, plan operations, and fine‑tune setups to hit tight dimensional tolerances.
• Design, adapt, and improve tooling and workholding to enable efficient, repeatable production.
• Verify every detail using precision metrology to ensure specifications and tolerances are met.
• Perform finishing and light assembly—deburring, polishing, sandblasting, part marking, and installing threaded inserts.
• Keep your workspace clean, safe, and organized while contributing to continuous improvement initiatives.

What You Bring

• 2+ years of experience in manual machining, toolroom, or toolmaking producing precision tooling, fixtures, jigs, workholding, or prototypes.
• Hands‑on proficiency with manual mills, lathes, surface grinders, and related shop equipment.
• Fluency in reading and interpreting engineering drawings and specifications.
• Solid shop math and working knowledge of GD&T.
• Ability to work independently to develop tooling and workholding solutions.
• Basic computer skills; High School Diploma or GED.
• Ability to lift up to 30 lbs. independently and use lifting assistance when needed.

Bonus Points

• CNC machine setup and/or Wire EDM experience.
• Background in designing, modifying, or improving tooling, fixtures, and workholding.
• Familiarity with AS9100 manufacturing environments.
• Experience machining high‑temperature alloys (e.g., Inconel, Monel).
• Forklift experience or ability to obtain certification.
• Associate degree in machining or manufacturing.
• GD&T certification and/or Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt (or higher).

Schedule

• Monday – Friday: 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM

About Northeast Tool & Manufacturing

We’re a preferred supplier of precision machined components and complex assemblies serving Aerospace, Defense, and Space programs. Certified to AS9100D and ISO 9001:2015, we leverage 5‑Axis Milling, Multi‑Axis Turning, and Wire EDM to deliver quality on the industry’s toughest applications.

Benefits & Culture

• Expect competitive pay
• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
• A 4% company‑matched 401(k) through Fidelity
• Nine paid holidays (including your birthday)
• A collaborative, team‑oriented environment

When our people grow, our company grows.

Proficiencies We Value

• GD&T
• Dovetail CNC
• CNC Tooling
• Manual machining skills

Machines You’ll Use

• Manual Grinder
• Manual Lathe
• Manual Vertical Mill (Bridgeport)