JOB TITLE: Machinist
DEPARTMENT: Machine Shop
REPORTING TO: Machine Shop Manager
ABOUT LIBRA INDUSTRIES:
Libra Industries is a full-service Electronics Manufacturing Services (EMS) provider with decades of experience delivering high-reliability electronic, mechanical, and electro-mechanical assemblies for customers in aerospace, defense, medical, semiconductor, and industrial markets. With facilities in Texas, Ohio, and Mexico, we serve a diverse customer base that depends on us for precision, quality, and on-time delivery.
At Libra, we build more than products — we build long-term partnerships. Our team members work in a collaborative, technically challenging environment where attention to detail matters and individual contributions have a direct impact on customer success.
PRIMARY FUNCTION OF POSITION:
The Top-Level Machinist is a highly skilled precision machining professional responsible for the independent setup and operation of CNC machining centers to produce complex, tight-tolerance components. This role requires a thorough command of machining theory, blueprint interpretation, metrology, and setup methodology, and serves as a technical resource within the machine shop environment.
DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES:
- Reads, interprets, and applies blueprints, planning sheets, sketches, and related technical documentation to determine tooling requirements, setup procedures, control settings, machining methods, and operational sequences.
- Mounts, aligns, and secures tooling attachments, fixtures, and workpieces to machine tables or work-holding devices in accordance with setup sheets and engineering requirements.
- Selects, installs, and qualifies cutting tools in machine spindles, ensuring proper tool length offsets and diameter compensation are established prior to production.
- Proficiently operates conventional tool room equipment including Bridgeport mills and surface grinders, as well as precision measurement instruments including micrometers, dial calipers, and dial indicators.
- Measures and documents part dimensions using precision metrology equipment including micrometers, calipers, gage pins, height gages, and other inspection tools, maintaining accurate records in compliance with quality system requirements.
- Sets up and operates CNC machining centers with full proficiency, including tool setting, workpiece fixturing, and loading and unloading of part holders, vises, and custom fixtures in support of complex machining operations.
- Calculates and establishes machine control parameters to accurately position the spindle relative to the workpiece and to regulate cutting depth, feed rate, spindle speed, and coolant flow in accordance with programming and engineering specifications.
- Initiates machine cycles and continuously monitors control displays and machine operation to detect malfunctions, anomalies, or conditions that may compromise part quality or equipment integrity.
- Interrupts machining cycles as required to change cutting tools, adjust setup configurations per the machining sequence, or perform in-process inspection to verify dimensional conformance to print specifications.
- Enters program edits or manually adjusts machine controls to correct malfunctions, compensate for tool wear, or address out-of-tolerance conditions, applying sound machining judgment to resolve issues efficiently.
- Operates machine in manual mode to perform non-automated functions, secondary operations, or setup verification activities as required.
- Communicates machining discrepancies, process deviations, and quality concerns to the supervisor or cell leader in a clear and timely manner, actively participating in root cause analysis and corrective action resolution.
- Maintains a clean, organized, and safe work area by routinely cleaning machines, tooling, fixtures, and parts in accordance with shop standards and 5S principles.
- Executes daily and weekly machine preventive maintenance tasks in accordance with established PM schedules to ensure equipment reliability, uptime, and longevity.
- Performs dimensional and visual inspection of completed parts to verify compliance with order specifications and applicable quality standards, utilizing Libra's quality control system to document results and ensure conformance to all requirements.
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:
- High School diploma or GED required; technical training, vocational certification, or formal apprenticeship in machining or manufacturing strongly preferred
- Demonstrated experience operating CNC-controlled milling machining centers in a precision manufacturing environment
- Working knowledge of CNC machining programming, including the ability to read, edit, and optimize G-code programs at the machine control
- Minimum of 7 years of hands-on experience in a low-volume, high-mix precision machining environment, with a proven track record of producing complex, tight-tolerance components
- Extensive experience setting up CNC milling machines from scratch using setup sheets, work instructions, and inspection data criteria; capable of executing full machine setup independently from initial fixturing through first article approval
- Experience machining tight tolerance parts (+/- .0002” or tighter), with demonstrated ability to hold critical dimensions consistently across production runs
- Capable of making proper tooling offsets as required based upon inspection data to ensure parts remain within tolerance throughout the machining process
- Capable of setting up tooling fixtures, tools, and tool holders including proper selection, installation, and verification prior to running production or first article parts
- Solid knowledge and practical application of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) principles in accordance with ASME Y14.5 standards
SKILLS/EXPERIENCE PREFERRED:
- Formal education in machining technology, manufacturing engineering, or a related discipline; applicable technical certifications or completed apprenticeship programs are highly valued
- Hands-on experience operating 3-axis CNC milling machining centers from leading platforms including Hurco, Haas, Okuma, or Doosan
- Collaborative team orientation with the ability to work effectively within a cross-functional shop environment
- Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to clearly convey technical information to peers, leadership, and quality personnel
- Adaptability and willingness to support shifting production priorities, varying part complexity, and evolving customer requirements
- Self-motivated with the initiative to identify and act on opportunities for process improvement, quality enhancement, and operational efficiency without direct supervision
- Committed to continuous professional development with a growth mindset toward advancing technical skills, embracing new technologies, and expanding machining knowledge
- Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities, with the ability to diagnose machining issues, evaluate root causes, and implement effective corrective actions in a timely manner
SPECIAL SKILLS/EXPERIENCE THAT ARE A PLUS:
- Experience operating 5-axis CNC machining centers, including Hurco, Haas, or Doosan platforms, with the ability to set up and run complex multi-sided components.
- Experience operating CNC lathes or mill-turn machining centers, expanding capability across turning and combined milling/turning operations.
- Experience operating precision CNC jig grinding or jig boring machines for ultra-tight tolerance applications.
- Proficiency in operating and programming EDM wire equipment for precision cutting of complex profiles and hardened materials.
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
- This position is performed in a manufacturing shop environment subject to varying noise levels, temperature fluctuations, and the presence of industrial machinery.
- Employees in this role may be exposed to airborne particles, coolant, cutting fluids, moving mechanical parts, and material handling vehicles. Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is required and must be worn at all times in designated shop areas.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
- The successful candidate must possess adequate vision and hearing to safely and effectively perform all essential job functions, including reading fine print on blueprints, operating precision instruments, and monitoring machine operation.
- This role requires the ability to stand and walk the shop floor for extended periods and to lift and carry materials weighing up to 20 pounds.
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
Libra Industries is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, age, marital status, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, disability or protected veteran status. We are committed to providing a workplace free of any discrimination or harassment.
