Manual Machinist Needed

Job Title: Manual Machinist

Job Description

This role operates common machine shop equipment such as mills, lathes, grinders, and drill presses, after set-up by more experienced machinists, to produce production parts within required tolerances. The position focuses on true manual machining, working with older manual machines and lathes to support a busy production environment.

Responsibilities

• Operate manual machine shop equipment, including mills, lathes, grinders, and drill presses, after they are set up by more skilled machinists.
• Produce production parts to specified dimensions and tolerances using manual machining techniques.
• Keep machines running properly by monitoring operation and ensuring sufficient production materials are available.
• Communicate effectively with operators on other shifts to ensure smooth handoffs and continuity of production.
• Maintain, organize, and secure work tools to support efficient and safe operations.
• Clean and maintain the work area regularly to uphold a safe and orderly production environment.
• Follow instructions and production priorities as directed by the supervisor and/or production lead.
• Communicate machine issues promptly to Maintenance to minimize downtime and prevent damage.
• Perform basic preventative maintenance on machines during down-time as directed.
• Turn off and properly shut down equipment when not in use.
• Perform other related duties as assigned to support production and shop operations.

Essential Skills

• Ability to operate manual machine shop equipment such as mills, lathes, grinders, and drill presses.
• Experience using one or more of the following tools: manual lathe, milling machine, drill press, and vertical or horizontal cut-off saw.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints to produce parts to required tolerances.
• Basic reading and writing skills, typically obtained through a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to perform advanced arithmetic related to machining, such as measurements, tolerances, and conversions.
• Manual dexterity for operating machinery and using controls accurately and safely.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds as needed in a production environment.
• Comfort working with older manual machines and lathes from the late 1980s and 1990s.
• Capability to perform true manual machining rather than relying on automated or button-operated equipment.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent education is typically required.
• Manual lathe experience is preferred and highly beneficial.
• Skills in one or more of the following areas: CNC equipment, mills, lathes, or grinders.
• Experience as a manual machinist, lathe operator, or grinder operator is advantageous.
• Experience performing set-ups and production runs on manual machines.
• Programming knowledge related to machining is a plus but not required.
• Ability to work collaboratively with other machinists, maintenance personnel, and production leads.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality, accurate parts.

Why Work Here?

You join a stable production environment that values hands-on craftsmanship and true manual machining skills. The shop offers the opportunity to work with classic manual equipment, build on traditional machining techniques, and contribute directly to the quality of the finished product. You can expect a straightforward, production-focused culture where clear communication, reliability, and pride in workmanship are appreciated.

Work Environment

This position works in a production and manufacturing shop environment with older manual machines and lathes, primarily from the late 1980s and 1990s. The role involves standing for extended periods, operating manual equipment, and handling parts and materials weighing up to 50 pounds. The setting is a typical machine shop with active production equipment, requiring adherence to safety procedures and the use of appropriate personal protective equipment. The environment is hands-on, mechanical, and focused on keeping machines running efficiently to meet production goals.

This is a Permanent position based out of Newton, KS.

The pay range for this position is $62400.00 - $72800.00/yr.

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This is a fully onsite position in Newton,KS.

This position is anticipated to close on Apr 27, 2026.

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies’ construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.