Machinist D

Job Title: Machinist D 

Job Code: 36445

Job Location: Palm Bay, FL 

Job Description: 

Responsible for fabricating, building, handling, repairing and integrating complex parts, assemblies and machines normally used in engineering prototypes, one of a kind product or low volume manufacturing. Provides highly skilled labor for extremely tight or critical tolerances. Hardware is fabricated and assembled using engineering standards and is oftentimes considered fragile, high precision, highly sensitive and of high value. May interface with engineers in prototyping and optimizing assembly processes and procedures for manufacturability. May monitor and verify quality in accordance with statistical process or other control procedures. May require handling knowledge such as use of overhead cranes and equipment and rigging best practices. May design and fabricate manufacturing assembly aids and tooling. May lead and manage multiple builds and assemblies.

Essential Functions:

Machine Setup & Operation

• Program, set up, load, and operate various sheet metal fabrication equipment including CNC punch presses, press brakes, shears, and other sheet metal machinery according to work instructions.


• Select, install, and adjust tooling, dies, punches, and fixtures to ensure accurate fabrication of sheet metal components.


• Run first-piece inspections and make necessary adjustments to machine settings for optimal quality and efficiency.

Drawing & Specification Interpretation

• Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing), and Work Orders to determine sheet metal fabrication requirements.


• Verify material types, thicknesses, dimensions, tolerances, bend allowances, and required finishes prior to fabrication.

Process Monitoring & Quality Control

• Monitor machine performance and fabrication processes to ensure parts meet exact specifications and quality standards.


• Inspect finished sheet metal parts using calipers, micrometers, height gauges, protractors, and other precision measuring tools.


• Document in-process and final inspection results, maintain accurate records, and report any deviations or non-conformances.

Troubleshooting & Adjustments

• Identify tool wear, machine malfunctions, material issues, or abnormal conditions and take appropriate corrective actions.


• Adjust machine parameters such as feed rates, ram speeds, tonnage, and offsets to optimize cut quality, bend accuracy, and overall efficiency

Material Handling & Workflow

• Load raw sheet metal stock and unload completed fabricated components safely and efficiently.


• Organize, stage, and manage parts and materials to support production schedules and workflow.


• Follow safe material handling practices to avoid damage and ensure workplace safety.

Maintenance & Upkeep

• Perform routine preventive maintenance including cleaning, lubrication, tool sharpening/replacement, and die maintenance.


• Maintain machine calibration and report issues requiring advanced repair.

Safety & Compliance

• Follow all safety guidelines, lockout/tagout procedures, and use required PPE.


• Comply with company policies, ISO/AS9100 and L3Harris standards and regulations.

Collaboration & Documentation

• Communicate with Machine Shop Leadership, Production Control, Engineers, and other team members regarding drawing issues, material problems, or fabrication challenges.


• Support continuous improvement initiatives, Lean/5S practices, and process standardization efforts.


• Demonstrate flexibility by supporting overtime requirements and adapting to shifting program priorities.

Qualifications: 

• Must have good computer skills including MS Windows and office products.


• Advanced understanding of programming and design using MasterCam, AutoCAD, and Creo software.


• Requires highly developed job knowledge/skills. Requires a High School Diploma or equivalent and a minimum of 8 years of prior relevant experience or 2 years post-Secondary/Associates Degree with a minimum of 4 years of prior related experience.

Preferred Additional Skills: 

• Highly developed support individual contributor, works autonomously.


• May act as a mentor to lower level peers and provide guidance on tasks.


• Works on assignments requiring judgement and initiative.


• Communicates with others within and outside the department on matters that involve obtaining or providing information requiring explanation or interpretation to understand and reach agreement. Makes recommendations for solutions.


• Works to achieve operational targets within job area which has impact on the overall achievement of results for the team. Work is of larger scope, typically on less structured task-related activities requiring judgement.


• Work is structured within identified boundaries and procedures. May work on assignments requiring judgement and initiative. Uses knowledge and experience to resolve issues.


• Must have good computer skills including MS Windows and office products.


• Expert with safe fabrication/machine practices, understanding of material SDS, able to comply with wearing appropriate PPE, and follow heavy lifting criteria.


• Expert knowledge of manufacturing and fabrication shop equipment operation and technology.


• Expert capability with general shop measuring equipment, micrometers, calipers, gauge pins, etc.