Lathe Machinist

General Dynamics Mission Systems, Inc • Cullman, AL

6d • $34 - $36 • Onsite

About The Position

As a Machinist with General Dynamics Mission Systems (GDMS) Precision Structures & Optics (PSO) in Cullman, Alabama, you will join a cross-functional team manufacturing beryllium products for aerospace, defense, and nuclear applications. These products are used in high-performance sensing systems for targeting and acquisition, surveillance, and reconnaissance, and are designed for battlefield environments. This is a fully on-site weekend-shift position, Friday through Sunday, 6:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

The role involves setting up and operating CNC machines and multi-axis machining centers to produce complex, precision components. You will interpret drawings, models, geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T), and manufacturing documentation; prepare tooling and workholding; verify setups; monitor production; and troubleshoot machining and dimensional issues. You will work with engineering, programming, and quality teams, support continuous improvement and corrective actions, maintain accurate records, and follow safety and equipment-care practices.

The position requires a technical certificate, three years of experience, or equivalent. Applicants selected must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information, and U.S. citizenship is required. The stated salary range is USD $33.66–$36.10 per hour, with actual pay depending on experience and other factors.

Requirements

• Technical certificate, three years of experience, or equivalent.
• U.S. citizenship and eligibility for access to classified information; selected applicants will undergo a U.S. Government security investigation.
• Precision machining experience, preferably manufacturing aerospace or medical components.
• Ability to independently set up and operate assigned CNC equipment and produce tight-tolerance, complex-geometry parts.
• Ability to read engineering drawings and apply GD&T, including datums, feature control frames, and positional requirements.
• Skill using precision inspection instruments, including micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, indicators, and height gauges.
• Working knowledge of CNC controls and G-code sufficient to understand programs, verify setups, and make authorized edits.
• Knowledge of cutting-tool selection, workholding methods, feeds, and speeds.
• Ability to recognize and control factors affecting dimensional accuracy and surface finish, including tool wear, thermal effects, vibration, and workholding distortion.
• Strong troubleshooting skills, attention to detail, and commitment to consistent workmanship.
• Ability to communicate clearly, maintain accurate records, and work effectively with production, engineering, and quality teams.
• Knowledge of machine-shop safety practices, including safe machine operation and use of personal protective equipment.

Nice To Haves

• Experience manufacturing tight-tolerance, complex-geometry precision products, particularly in an aerospace or medical component machine shop.
• Ability to work from blueprints, advanced drawings, process sheets, and sketches to perform machining operations with precision, quality, and safety.
• Analytical and problem-solving skills, including the ability to troubleshoot and resolve issues quickly and effectively.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC machines and/or multi-axis machining centers to manufacture complex precision components.
• Interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, GD&T requirements, work instructions, and manufacturing process documentation.
• Select and install cutting tools, workholding devices, and fixtures; establish tool and work offsets and verify setup accuracy.
• Review CNC programs, conduct controlled prove-outs, and make authorized adjustments to offsets, feeds, speeds, and tool paths.
• Understand tolerances, material specifications, and critical dimensions.
• Modify existing CNC programs using G-code with supervision.
• Machine components to specified tolerances and surface finishes while controlling tool wear, burr formation, and part distortion.
• Monitor machining operations, identify process variations, and troubleshoot tooling, setup, and dimensional issues.
• Identify and report nonconforming conditions and support root-cause investigations and corrective actions.
• Handle, clean, and protect precision components according to work instructions.
• Collaborate with engineers, CNC programmers, and quality personnel to improve manufacturability, repeatability, and production efficiency.
• Communicate during shift handovers and team meetings.
• Contribute to continuous improvement efforts.
• Follow safety procedures and use personal protective equipment.
• Perform routine equipment care and maintain a safe, clean, and organized work area.

Benefits

• 401(k) matching
• Flexible time off
• Paid parental leave
• Healthcare benefits
• Health and wellness programs
• Employee resource and social groups
• Opportunities for continuous learning and development
• Flexible schedules, including an optional 9/80 schedule with every other Friday off

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: No Education Listed