Shop Machinist – Gear Production & Testing
Position Title:
Shop Machinist – Gear Production & Testing
Reports To:
Production Manager
Position Summary:
The Shop Machinist is responsible for the setup, operation, and maintenance of machining equipment used in the production of precision gears, pinions, shafts, and related electromechanical components. This position requires experience with gear manufacturing processes, blueprint interpretation, precision measuring instruments, and testing equipment to ensure products meet engineering and quality specifications.
The ideal candidate is mechanically skilled, detail-oriented, and capable of working independently while supporting production goals, quality standards, and continuous improvement initiatives within the machine shop.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Machining & Production
- Set up and operate manual and CNC machining equipment used in the production of gears, pinions, shafts, housings, and precision mechanical components.
- Perform machining operations including turning, milling, drilling, grinding and hobbing.
- Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, specifications, and work instructions.
- Manufacture components to precise tolerances and specifications.
- Monitor machine performance and make adjustments as necessary to maintain quality and efficiency.
- Perform machine changeovers, tooling adjustments, and production startups.
- Maintain production schedules and communicate delays or issues to supervision.
Gear Manufacturing & Precision Work
- Produce and inspect electromechanical gearing components including spur gears, worm gears, pinions, and related assemblies.
- Understand gear geometry, tolerances, backlash, and fitment requirements.
- Verify dimensions using precision measuring instruments such as micrometers, calipers, dial indicators, bore gauges, and height gauges.
- Assist in troubleshooting machining or dimensional issues affecting gear performance.
Testing & Quality Control
- Operate testing and inspection equipment to verify product performance and compliance with specifications.
- Perform first-piece, in-process, and final inspections.
- Document inspection results, non-conforming materials, scrap, and corrective actions.
- Work closely with Quality Control and Manufacturing Engineering to resolve machining and production issues.
- Identify defective materials or workmanship and assist with root cause analysis.
Equipment Maintenance & Shop Support
- Maintain clean, organized, and safe work areas in accordance with 5S and company safety standards.
- Perform routine machine maintenance and report equipment issues promptly.
- Assist with inventory organization, material handling, and cycle counting activities as needed.
- Support continuous improvement and lean manufacturing initiatives.
- Assist with training less experienced machinists or machine operators when required.
Qualifications & Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED required; technical machining certification or trade school training preferred.
- Minimum 3–5 years of machining experience in a manufacturing or machine shop environment.
- Experience producing precision gears or power transmission components strongly preferred.
- Experience operating CNC and manual machining equipment.
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints and engineering drawings.
- Strong understanding of machining tolerances, tooling, feeds, and speeds.
- Experience using precision measuring and testing equipment.
- Basic computer skills including data entry and production reporting.
- Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting ability.
- Ability to communicate effectively and work in a team-oriented environment.
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and stand for extended periods.
Preferred Skills
- Experience with gear hobbing, gear shaping, or grinding equipment.
- Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and 5S principles.
- Familiarity with ERP or manufacturing software systems.
- Forklift or material handling experience a plus.
Key Attributes
- Strong attention to detail
- Dependable and safety-focused
- High mechanical aptitude
- Team-oriented mindset
- Strong work ethic and initiative
- Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
Work Environment
This position operates in a manufacturing and machine shop environment with exposure to machinery, moving mechanical parts, noise, lubricants, and metal materials. Proper PPE is required at all times.