Machine Shop Tech I

Job Summary

Supports machine shop production and engineering work by preparing materials, operating basic shop equipment, assisting with machining tasks, and performing basic welding and fabrication work under established procedures and guidance. The technician reads basic drawings, uses standard hand and measuring tools, checks completed work for conformance, and helps maintain a clean and safe work area. This is an entry-level role intended to build machining, welding, and fabrication skills with CNC and manual equipment.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Clean, cut, and prepare raw materials for machining, welding, and fabrication.

• Read and follow basic drawings, blueprints, work instructions, and engineering documentation.

• Operate CNC lathes, mills, and manual shop equipment under guidance and within established procedures.

• Assist with machine setup, tool changes, and material loading.

• Use calipers, micrometers, gauges, and other measuring tools to check completed parts against specifications.

• Operate bandsaws, grinders, and other hand and power tools safely.

• Perform basic MIG welding, tack welding, and related fabrication tasks under guidance and in accordance with approved procedures.

• Prepare parts and joint surfaces for welding by measuring, fitting, cleaning, grinding, and positioning materials.

• Assist with fitting, clamping, and assembling welded components using drawings, fixtures, and work instructions.

• Visually inspect welds and fabricated parts for basic quality requirements and report defects or concerns.

• Clean and maintain welding equipment, leads, guns, work areas, and related tools.

• Deburr, clean, label, and organize finished parts and materials.

• Assist with assembling parts and hardware as needed.

• Identify equipment, quality, or safety concerns and promptly report them to the appropriate team member.

• Perform basic routine equipment care and support preventive maintenance activities.

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.

• Follow safety, quality, and environmental procedures.

• Perform other job-related duties as assigned by management.

Authorities

• Stop work and immediately report unsafe conditions, equipment issues, or activities that present a safety risk.

• Operate assigned machining, welding, fabrication, and material-preparation equipment after required training and make routine adjustments within approved instructions and operating limits.

• Inspect assigned work, identify nonconforming material or parts, hold or set them aside, and notify the appropriate team member for review and disposition.

• Request clarification and escalate equipment, tooling, material, quality, or maintenance concerns when requirements are unclear or outside approved limits.

• Recommend practical improvements to safety, quality, workflow, tooling, or shop organization; this position may not independently change engineering requirements, approve deviations, release nonconforming product, modify CNC programs or welding procedures outside approved limits, or authorize equipment repairs.

Minimum Qualifications

• High School Diploma/GED and up to 2 years' experience in welding, machining, manufacturing, fabrication, mechanical work, or a related field.

• Basic knowledge of hand tools, power tools, and standard measuring equipment, including calipers, micrometers, and gauges.

• Ability to read and follow basic drawings, work instructions, and safety procedures.

• Basic mechanical aptitude and the ability to learn CNC, manual machining, welding, and fabrication equipment and processes.

• Good attention to detail, problem-solving, and communication skills to work effectively with others.

• Ability to follow direction, ask questions, and complete assigned work safely and accurately.

Preferred Qualifications

• Technical training, coursework, or certification in machining, welding, CNC operations, manufacturing technology, or a related discipline.

• Hands-on experience in a machine shop, welding shop, fabrication shop, or manufacturing environment.

• Experience using CNC or manual machining equipment, MIG welding equipment, 3D printers, or CAM software.

• Experience in the automotive or advanced manufacturing industry.

Work Environment

Manufacturing, machine shop, and welding environment with exposure to moving machinery, noise, metal chips, oils, heat, sparks, welding fumes, and other typical shop conditions.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods and regularly bend, reach, stoop, and move materials or equipment.

• Ability to use hands and fingers to operate tools, controls, and precision measuring equipment.

• Visual ability to read drawings, inspect parts, and identify dimensional or surface defects.

• Required to wear task-appropriate PPE, including safety glasses, hearing protection, safety footwear, welding helmet or face shield, welding gloves, and protective clothing as needed.