Trainee Sharpening Specialist

Sterling St James LLC; Plainville (CT); On-site; USD 30,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health Insurance

401(k)

Paid Time Off

Job summary

Sterling St James LLC in Connecticut is seeking an Apprentice Honing Technician to start a long-term career in precision machining, with hands-on training from experienced professionals.

You will learn honing processes, support production through inspection, packaging, and machine operation, and gradually set up and operate honing equipment to meet strict quality standards.

Qualifications

• 1+ years of machine shop experience.
• Basic understanding of machining and shop mathematics.
• Familiarity with precision measuring equipment.
• Ability to read simple blueprints.
• Strong work ethic and willingness to learn.

Responsibilities

• Unpack, clean, and prepare parts for production.
• Package and label finished components.
• Assist with inspections using precision measuring equipment.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area.
• Support experienced machinists throughout daily production.

Skills

Basic machining knowledge

Blueprint reading

Attention to detail

Willingness to learn

Strong mechanical aptitude

Tools

SUNNEN equipment

Precision measuring equipment

Job description

We are searching for a motivated Apprentice Honing Technician for one of our respected precision manufacturing clients. This is an outstanding opportunity for someone looking to build a long-term career in precision machining while receiving hands‑on training from experienced professionals.

Our client has over 50 years of expertise in precision ID honing and manufactures critical components for the aerospace, defense, medical, automotive, marine, manufacturing, and oil & gas industries.

Compensation

Starting at $26.00+/hr (based on experience)

Position Summary

This position is ideal for individuals with basic machine shop experience who are eager to develop into skilled precision machinists. The Apprentice Honing Technician will learn every aspect of the honing process while supporting production through inspection, preparation, packaging, and machine operation.

As your skills develop, you will receive training to independently set up and operate precision honing equipment while producing components that meet demanding quality standards.

Responsibilities

• Unpack, clean, and prepare parts for production
• Package and label finished components
• Assist with inspections using precision measuring equipment
• Maintain a clean and organized work area
• Support experienced machinists throughout daily production

Training & Development

• Learn manual honing machine setup and operation
• Understand precision tolerances and surface finish requirements
• Work with steel, aluminum, titanium, plastics, and specialty alloys
• Learn proper tooling, stone selection, and machine setup
• Develop blueprint reading and machining skills

Quality

• Measure parts using micrometers, calipers, and bore gauges
• Verify part dimensions and quality standards
• Assist with quality inspections

Maintenance & Teamwork

• Perform routine machine cleaning and preventive maintenance
• Help identify production issues and support continuous improvement
• Work closely with machinists, engineers, and quality personnel

Qualifications

Required

• 1+ years of machine shop experience
• Basic understanding of machining and shop mathematics
• Familiarity with precision measuring equipment
• Ability to read simple blueprints
• Strong work ethic and willingness to learn
• Excellent attention to detail
• Honing or lapping experience
• Experience with SUNNEN equipment
• Strong mechanical aptitude
• Interest in developing a long-term career in manufacturing

Benefits

• Competitive compensation
• Health Insurance
• 401(k)
• Paid Time Off