Title:  Manual Machinist

Location: 

Billings, MT, US, 59101

Department:  Manual
Job Req ID:  1456

Position Summary

Job Description

POSITION SUMMARY: 

Manual Machinists set up and operate a variety of machine tools (lathes & mills) to cut or grind metal and similar materials into parts or products with precise dimensions.  Machinists fabricate parts and/or repair parts for mining or heavy construction equipment, applying knowledge of mechanics, shop mathematics, metal properties, layout, and machining procedures.  Machinists study sample parts, blueprints, drawings, and engineering information to determine methods and sequences of operations needed to fabricate parts, and determine part dimensions and tolerances 

 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 

  • Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, charts and tables or study sample parts to determine machining operation to be performed, and plan best sequence of operations 

  • Compute dimensions and tolerances and measure and lay out work pieces 

  • Set up and operate a variety of machine tools including computer numerical controlled (CNC) tools to perform precision, non-repetitive machining operations such as sawing, turning, milling, boring, planning, drilling, precision grinding and other operations 

  • Fit and assemble machined metal parts and subassemblies using hand and power tools 

  • Verify dimensions of products for accuracy and conformance to specifications using precisions measuring instruments 

  • Set up and machine tools for use by machining tool operators 

  • Verify dimensions of machined parts or tooling using micrometers, verniers, calipers, height gauges, optical comparators, or other specialized measuring instruments  

  • Maintain, repair and calibrate precision measuring instruments such as dial indicators, fixed gauges, height gauges and other measuring devices  

  • Calculate dimensions and tolerances using knowledge of mathematics and instruments such as micrometers and vernier calipers. 

  • Machine parts to specifications using machine tools such as lathes, milling machines, shapers, or grinders. 

  • Measure, examine, and test completed units to detect defects and ensure conformance to specifications, using precision instruments such as micrometers. 

  • Set up, adjust, and operate all of the basic machine tools and many specialized or advanced variation tools to perform precision machining operations. 

  • Align and secure holding fixtures, cutting tools, attachments, accessories, and materials onto machines. 

  • Monitor the feed and speed of machines during the machining process. 

  • Study sample parts, blueprints, drawings, and engineering information to determine methods and sequences of operations needed to fabricate products,and determine product dimensions and tolerances. 

  • Select the appropriate tools, machines, and materials to be used in preparation of machinery work. 

  • Lay out, measure, and mark metal stock to display placement of cuts. 

  • Observe and listen to operating machines or equipment to diagnose machine malfunctions and to determine need for adjustments or repairs. 

  • Able to create new setups and fixtures for complex setups. 

  • Assist in the machine planning of new products for maximum effectiveness 

  • Assist in process/product quality checks. 

  • Train and mentor lower-level machinist as required. 

 

 

Profile 

 

Education & Qualifications 

 

High school diploma or equivalent required; vocational or technical certification in mechanics or related fields preferred. 

 

Two years’ professional training in a vocational institution, or equivalent journey level experience required. 

 

Technical Skills 

 

Expert knowledge of methods, tooling, and standard practices for precision machining and millwright trades; ferrous and non-ferrous metal alloys, their physical characteristics and applications required. 

 

Five (5+) plus years’ experience required using tools and equipment common in the precision machine industry to turn, shape, cut, and grind, various alloys to tolerances within one ten thousandths of an inch; using all types of precision measuring instruments to make very accurate, repeatable measurements; using heat to treat steels for tools; selecting, grinding, and setup of appropriate cutting tools for various alloys and determining correct feeds and speeds to produce the highest quality finish required for the application; working from mechanical drawings and blueprints to determine dimensions, tolerances, machine sequence, and setup of work. 

 

 

Behavioral Skills 

 

Excellent organizational and recordkeeping abilities. 

 

Effective time management and ability to work independently or in a team. 

 

Good communication and interpersonal skills for teamwork and reporting. 

 

Physical Requirements 

 

Ability to lift 50 lbs is required. 


Nearest Major Market: Billings
Nearest Secondary Market: Montana