Machine Shop Technician III- EDM

Are you ready to launch your career into the stratosphere? Look no further than LTI! We are on the forefront of the ever-expanding mission critical materials testing, where your contributions will not only propel us into the cosmos but also drive advancements in airplane development, submarine building, and nuclear safety. We are hiring an experienced Wire EDM Operator to join our team. As a EDM Technician Level III, you'll expertly operate cutting-edge WEDM equipment to shape customer materials with precision and adherence to stringent specifications. Your role will involve setting up and managing multiple machines, ensuring equipment functionality, and maintaining meticulous traceability and compliance throughout the machining process. This is a 2nd Shift role working in Hatfield, PA 2:30 PM - 11:00 PM, M-F which includes a 10% shift differential. POSITION SUMMARY: The EDM Technician Level III is an experienced member of the Machine Shop team who performs the full range of Wire Electrical Discharge Machining (WEDM) operations in accordance with customer requirements, applicable specifications, and LTI procedures. This role takes the lead on complex, nonstandard, and first-run work, including programming, fixture development, setup, and process optimization. The Level III Technician works closely with other technicians, leadership, Quality, and Engineering to troubleshoot equipment and process challenges, share technical knowledge, and improve how work is completed and documented. This position requires sound technical judgment, attention to detail, and a commitment to helping the team deliver safe, accurate, and timely results. EDM Technician Level III - Key Responsibilities Machine Operations 1. Performs all types of EDM machine operations as assigned, including setup for both short- and long-run work. 2. Squares and machines specimens from odd-shaped configurations in accordance with LTI procedures. 3. Operates multiple machines to support safe and efficient workflow. 4. Follows applicable specifications, procedures, drawings, and job requirements to support accurate and compliant machining. 5. Maintains traceability of materials and parts during operations. 6. Records required production and job information accurately and in a timely manner. Setup & Fixturing 1. Develops, builds, and sets up fixtures for complex, nonstandard, and first-run parts, coordinating with leadership and Engineering when appropriate. 2. Troubleshoots and modifies existing fixtures to improve repeatability, clamping, and alignment. 3. Reviews new work for fixturing feasibility and recommends an appropriate approach before machining begins. Programming & Process Optimization 1. Creates and edits EDM programs from drawings and applicable job requirements for new or complex parts. 2. Adjusts and optimizes cutting parameters, including wire type, offsets, and power settings, for tight-tolerance materials, difficult alloys, and unusual geometries. 3. Performs and documents first-article setup and dimensional verification in accordance with LTI procedures before continuing production. Troubleshooting & Team Support 1. Serves as an experienced technical resource for EDM performance issues, including wire breaks, taper errors, dimensional variation, and surface-finish concerns. 2. Works with technicians, leadership, Quality, and Engineering to identify the causes of recurring equipment, process, or quality issues and recommend potential corrective actions. 3. Monitors assigned work against scheduled completion dates and communicates potential delays early enough to support recovery planning. Quality Assurance & Documentation 1. Verifies that required shop equipment and measuring instruments are functioning properly and within calibration before use; promptly communicates equipment found to be out of calibration or in need of repair. 2. Understand and follows LTI's Quality Assurance Program and applicable quality requirements. 3. Supports EDM process documentation and audit readiness by maintaining procedures, setup information, and fixture records and sharing lessons learned with the team. Maintenance 1. Supports preventive maintenance planning for assigned equipment and performs approved maintenance, adjustments, and minor repairs within the scope of the position. Communicates concerns requiring additional maintenance or vendor support. Safety & Housekeeping 1. Maintains assigned work areas in a clean, organized, and safe condition. 2. Follows applicable safety rules and uses required personal protective equipment. Additional Duties 1. Seeks clarification when specifications or directions are unclear. 2. Assists with the disposal of scrap metals from within the department. 3. Complies with all company policies and procedures at all times. 4. Performs other related duties and responsibilities as assigned by the Machine Shop Team Lead, Supervisor, or Manager. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: 1. None. QUALIFICATIONS: 1. High school diploma or equivalent required. 2. Demonstrated WEDM machining experience required, including independent setup, fixture development, programming, and troubleshooting; Four to five years of EDM machining experience preferred. 3. Ability to create and edit EDM programs from drawings and job requirements. 4. Ability to use micrometers and other precision measuring instruments and verify dimensions to 0.0001 inch, as required. 5. Ability to interpret engineering drawings, dimensions, tolerances, and basic GD&T requirements and adjust machine control settings as needed. 6. Strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, teamwork, and practical problem-solving skills. Ability to work independently while communicating issues, coordinating priorities, and seeking assistance when appropriate. This position requires use of information or access to processes subject to national security controls u