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CNC Machinist - 1st Shift

Fairbanks Morse Defense

Thomaston, CTJobSeen 2mo agoSeen in employer's feed 3 days ago

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At a glance

Compensation
No compensation found
Location
Thomaston, CT
Work Authorization
Not specified

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Job overview

Fairbanks Morse Defense is hiring a CNC Machinist - 1st Shift. The company seeks a highly skilled CNC Machinist to operate multi‑axis lathes, VTLs, and 5‑axis mill‑turn machines, set up equipment, optimize programs, and maintain tight tolerances on steel, cast iron, and heat‑resistant alloys for defense‑related electric motor systems.

Key focus areas include Set up and operate multi‑axis CNC lathes, VTLs, and 5‑axis mill‑turn machines to manufacture precision parts such as shafts, housings, and assemblies., Optimize existing CNC programs for performance, tool life, and part quality., and Install and adjust tooling, fixtures, and offsets to ensure accurate and efficient machining..

Important skills include Operating Multi-Axis Lathes, Operating VTLs, Operating 5-Axis Mill-Turn Machines, Optimizing CNC Programs, Installing Tooling, and Adjusting Tooling.

Skills & qualifications

RequiredNice to have

Skills

Operating Multi-Axis LathesOperating VTLsOperating 5-Axis Mill-Turn MachinesOptimizing CNC ProgramsInstalling ToolingAdjusting ToolingInterpreting BlueprintsInterpreting Engineering DrawingsInterpreting GD&T SpecificationsInterpreting Work InstructionsConducting in-Process InspectionsConducting Final InspectionsUsing Manual Metrology ToolsUsing Automated SystemsMonitoring Machining OperationsMaintaining Accurate RecordsWorking CollaborativelyPerforming Preventative MaintenanceTroubleshooting Mechanical ProblemsTroubleshooting Tooling ProblemsComplying With Safety StandardsMaintaining Clean Work EnvironmentMaintaining Organized Work EnvironmentMaintaining Efficient Work EnvironmentMachining SteelMachining Cast IronMachining Heat-Resistant AlloysTight-Tolerance MachiningQuality Inspection TechniquesManual Inspection ToolsAutomated Measurement SystemsInterpreting Technical DocumentationWorking IndependentlyFANUCSiemensOSP (Okuma)ISO 9001

Qualifications

High School Diploma or Equivalent5 Years of Experience Operating Multi-Axis CNC MachinesU.S. Person StatusTechnical Certification in MachiningFormal Training in Machining

Full job description

Job Summary:

We are seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented CNC Machinist experienced in operating multi-axis lathes, vertical turret lathes (VTLs), and 5-axis mill-turn machines. This position supports the production of precision components for defense-related electric motor systems. The machinist will be responsible for setting up machines, optimizing existing programs, and maintaining tight tolerances on materials such as steel, cast iron, and heat-resistant alloys.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Set up and operate multi-axis CNC lathes, VTLs, and 5-axis mill-turn machines to manufacture precision parts such as shafts, housings, and assemblies.

  • Optimize existing CNC programs for performance, tool life, and part quality.

  • Install and adjust tooling, fixtures, and offsets to ensure accurate and efficient machining.

  • Interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, GD&T specifications, and work instructions to meet production and quality requirements.

  • Conduct in-process and final inspections using manual metrology tools (e.g., micrometers, bore gauges, height gauges) and automated systems such as touch probes.

  • Monitor machining operations and make real-time adjustments to maintain part conformance.

  • Maintain accurate records for setups, inspections, tool changes, and production output.

  • Work collaboratively with engineering, quality, and production staff to resolve issues and meet delivery goals.

  • Perform routine preventative maintenance and assist with troubleshooting mechanical or tooling problems.

  • Comply with all safety standards and help maintain a clean, organized, and efficient work environment.

Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent required; technical certification or formal training in machining preferred.

  • Minimum 5 years of experience operating multi-axis CNC machines, including VTLs and/or 5-axis mill-turn equipment, in a precision manufacturing environment.

  • Skilled in machining parts from steel, cast iron, and heat-resistant alloys (e.g., Inconel, stainless steel).

  • Strong knowledge of GD&T, tight-tolerance machining, and quality inspection techniques.

  • Proficient with both manual inspection tools and automated measurement systems such as touch probes.

  • Familiarity with CNC controls such as FANUC, Siemens, or OSP (Okuma) is a plus.

  • Experience working under ISO 9001 or similar quality management systems.

  • Able to interpret technical documentation and work independently with minimal supervision.

  • U.S. Person status required (to comply with defense contract requirements).

Working Conditions:

  • Clean, well-maintained defense manufacturing facility.

  • Requires standing for extended periods and lifting materials up to 50 lbs.

  • Use of PPE and compliance with all safety procedures is mandatory.

  • May require occasional overtime depending on production schedules.

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