Machine Operator Leads operate computer-controlled machines to perform one or more machine functions required to produce customer orders. Skilled Machine Operators are critical to our success, and the reliability and accuracy of our operators is essential. The lead role takes responsibility for training new employees, mentoring their development, and performing inspections of their work, and for miscellaneous administrative tasks as directed by the Supervisor. The lead may act as interim supervisor in the Supervisor's absence.
Essential Functions
To perform this job, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable Accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- Trains new employees and mentors skill development during the introductory period for new hires
- Communicates professionally and appropriately to convey information, deliver instructions, and demonstrate procedures
- Sets up and operates automated CNC Vertical and horizontal machines
- Accurately locates/identifies the X, Y, Z axis on Vertical and Horizontal machines
- Uses indicators to verify flatness and straightness of fixturing and tooling
- Performs daily point checks on assigned machines and reports concerns to supervisor; may initiate maintenance requests if appropriate
- Meets departmental/company goals and objectives promptly (i.e.: efficiencies, scrap control, time motion and setup time reductions)
- Accurately interprets product blueprints, drawings, sketches, set up sheets and other work instructions
- Uses scales, calipers, micrometers, and height gauges to determine that the part is being machined to the proper specifications
- Completes complex rework on machined parts as required; repairs fixtures as needed
- Removes and replaces dull cutting tools; following designated safety protocol and instructions
- Mounts, installs, aligns, and secures tools, attachments, fixtures, and workpieces on machines, using hand tools and precision measuring instruments
- Listens to machines during operation to detect irregular sounds (i.e. dull cutting tools or excessive vibration); adjusts machines to compensate for problems and notifies lead or supervisory personnel as appropriate
- Adjusts machine feed and speed, changes cutting tools, or adjusts machine controls when automatic programming is faulty or if machines malfunction
- Stops machines to remove finished workpieces or to change tooling, setup, or workpiece placement according to required machining sequences
- Lifts workpieces to machines manually or with hoists or cranes
- Transfers programs from servers to computer numerical control (CNC) modules, using computer network links
- Enters control instructions into machine control units to start operation
- Troubleshoots production issues and program edits
- Monitors and adjusts/controls coolant systems as needed
- Transfers programs from servers to computer numerical control (CNC) modules, using computer network links
- Sets up future jobs, performs inspections or part checks, cleans work area, or performs other duties while machines are operating
- May assist in training new operators
- May deburr machined parts as required for work in process
- May operate forklift (on-site certification required if applicable)
- Follows all safety policies and procedures; consistently utilizes all required personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Communicates verbally (English) and follows verbal and written instructions
- Performs other tasks and/or assignments as required
- Regular attendance on-site at the workplace is required
Required Education and Work Experience
- High School diploma or GED equivalent is required
- Vocational training/certification in machining is preferred
- A minimum of three (3) years experience in a manufacturing role utilizing complex multi-axis machining centers is required; relevant apprenticeship or vocational training in a machine shop, manufacturing technology, or similar program may be considered in combination with paid work experience
Other Required Skills and Abilities
- Experience reading & accurately interpreting shop blueprints, sketches, and other technical information/instructions is required
- Demonstrated basic math skills (add, subtract, multiply, divide, fraction conversions)
- Experience using mics, calipers, height gauges, and other precision measuring equipment is required
- Experience using indicators to verify flatness and straightness of tooling and fixturing
- Experience troubleshooting production issues and program edits
- A history of consistent employment without unexplained or significant gaps or frequent job changes is expected
- Completion of assigned internal training for Level III Operators, and periodic retraining or recertification is required
- Experience using cranes, forklifts, and similar heavy & oversized material handling equipment is preferred
Physical Demands and Work Environment
To perform the essential functions of the role, employees must be able to perform the following activities with or without reasonable accommodations:
- Regularly stand and walk throughout the facility, stand for long periods to perform job duties
- Regularly lift, carry (short distances), and push/pull up to 100 pounds using peer assistance and/or other lifting & material-handling equipment
- Occasionally reaches overhead and reaches out or down to perform duties
- Frequently climb steps, stairs, or ladders
- Occasionally bend, crawl, stoop, squat, or kneel
- Frequently uses hand or fingers to manually inspect parts, tighten hardware & fixtures, and operate machine and material handling controls
- Accurately distinguish colors to respond to sensors, indicators, and color-variable dashboards
- Visual acuity to interpret readings on gauges and other measuring devices
Working Conditions
Work is performed in a manufacturing shop environment where working conditions may vary significantly; the employee will be exposed to:
- Excessive noise (hearing protection required)
- Dust, smoke, mist, fumes/vapors (regularly)
- Extreme temperatures (occasionally)
- Hazardous equipment including forklifts, hand tools, cranes or other lifting devices, and other equipment used in a machine shop environment (continually)
The use of PPE, including hearing protection, eye and hand protection, and use of safety footwear is required
We appreciate your interest in Accurus Aerospace; however, only those applicants selected for interviews will be contacted.
Accurus offers a comprehensive employee benefit package upon completion of 30 days of employment. For full details, please visit the benefits section of our website.
Accurus is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Affirmative Action Plan (AAP) employer and participates in the E-Verify Employment Verification Program.
Please see our website for more information on employment practices.
Please note that Accurus only accepts applications submitted through our online recruiting system. For information on disability accommodations for applicants, please visit our career page.
All job offers are contingent upon successfully completing a drug screen and criminal background screening. Certain positions may require a Motor Vehicle Report (MVR), a credit report, and/or a medical physical examination. |
Accurus Aerospace Corporation
Oct 08, 2025