CNC Milling Machinist Vertical or Horizontal 1st or 2nd Shift (Mid to Senior Level)

Projects Inc. is a manufacturer of complex small, machined components serving the Aerospace, Power Generation and other industries for over fifty-five years. We are committed to quality, innovation, and continuous improvement in support of our customers’ needs.

We are seeking an experienced CNC Horizontal and/or Vertical Milling Machinist with 5 or more years of experience to work on our 1st shift (6:00 AM to 3;30 PM) or 2nd Shift (3:00 PM to 12:30 AM with Shift differential). The CNC Milling Machinist will independently set up, program, and operate CNC and/or manual horizontal or vertical milling machines to produce complex, high-precision parts. This role requires advanced machining knowledge, strong blueprint and GD&T skills, and the ability to act as a technical resource on the shop floor.

Responsibilities:

• Perform complex machining operations including contouring, pocketing, drilling, tapping, boring, and profiling.
• Read and interpret complex blueprints, specifications, and GD&T.
• Establish tool offsets, work coordinates, and machining sequences from print to production.
• Troubleshoot and resolve machining, tooling, setup, and material issues.
• Perform and support preventive maintenance and machine care.
• Mentor junior and mid-level machinists and share best practices.
• Select tooling, cutters, and machining strategies for accuracy, efficiency, and tool life
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment.

Advanced Machine Setup & Operation

• Independently set up and operate CNC and/or manual horizontal or vertical milling machines.
• Design, build, and modify advanced fixtures and work holding solutions.
• Select optimal cutters, tooling, and machining strategies to maximize efficiency, accuracy, and tool life.
• Perform complex machining operations including heavy stock removal, straddle milling, slotting, splines, keyways, gears, and precision bores.
• Optimize speeds, feeds, and cutting parameters to improve quality, cycle time, and cost.

Programming & Process Development

• Develop, program, edit, and optimize CNC programs using G-code or conversational controls.
• Plan and establish machining sequences from print through production.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex machining, tooling, fixturing, and material issues.
• Collaborate with engineering to improve manufacturability and process reliability.

Quality Assurance & Inspection

• Hold tight tolerances and achieve demanding surface finish requirements and meet demanding surface finish requirements.
• Perform advanced in-process and final inspections using precision measuring tool and equipment.
• Validate setups and approve first article parts prior to production runs and release.
• Identify root causes of non-conformances and implement corrective actions.
• Support quality audits and continuous improvement efforts.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; technical training or apprenticeship preferred.
• 5+ years of horizontal or vertical milling experience.
• Strong CNC programming and setup experience.
• Advanced blueprint reading and GD&T interpretation skills.
• Proven ability to run complex jobs independently from setup through completion.
• Proficiency with micrometers, calipers, height gauges, indicators, and other inspection tools.
• Strong troubleshooting, problem-solving, and mechanical aptitude.

Preferred Experience

• CAM programming experience.
• Aerospace, medical, tool & die, or high-precision manufacturing background.
• Experience with ISO, AS9100, or similar quality systems.
• Informal leadership or mentoring experience.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods.
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs.
• Manual dexterity and attention to detail.
• Comfortable working in a machine shop environment.