Machinist - Okuma Multus (Air Valve - 2nd Shift)

Woodward L'Orange•Rockford, IL

3d•Onsite

About The Position

Woodward is hiring a Machinist for its Rock Cut Campus in Loves Park, Illinois, to support Multus machine operations in the Air Valve line. The role manufactures aerospace parts and components on second shift, Monday through Thursday from 3:00 p.m. to 1:30 a.m., with overtime on Fridays. Two levels are described, with responsibilities and expected skills varying by level. Level I performs basic setups and operates multiple CNC or manual machines and related equipment to produce precision metal parts. The work includes supporting operations, first-piece inspections, following work instructions, interpreting blueprints, using inspection gages, recording production data, applying 5S practices, and following safety protocols. The role also requires identifying and addressing or escalating deviations from standards, communicating with coworkers and supervisors, and contributing to continuous improvement. Level II performs complex setups and operates numerous CNC or manual machines. This level requires in-depth blueprint and GD&T interpretation, first-piece inspection and training others in those processes, and knowledge of machine insert and tooling selection. The Level II machinist champions 5S and safety, diagnoses machining issues, proactively identifies solutions, participates in lean initiatives, and supports collaboration across teams. The position involves moderate physical activity, including walking, standing, bending, and lifting or moving objects. Work takes place in an area with moderate risk or discomfort and may require protective clothing or gear. Near-vision and/or color-vision examinations may be required. The role involves information subject to ITAR and/or EAR; applicants must be U.S. persons under those regulations or eligible to obtain the required authorizations.

Requirements

At least 1 year of CNC machining experience.
Basic mechanical aptitude and understanding of mechanical systems and components.
Basic computer skills, including email and data entry.
Ability to read and interpret blueprints.
Ability to use inspection gages and hand and power tools.
Ability to follow detailed instructions and maintain precision and attention to detail.
Level I: Basic setup and operation of multiple CNC or manual machining equipment; basic GD&T knowledge.
Level II: Complex setups and operation of numerous CNC or manual machines; in-depth GD&T knowledge; knowledge of machine insert and tooling selection.
Level II: Ability to diagnose common machining issues, anticipate potential problems, and proactively identify solutions.
Ability to communicate effectively, work cooperatively, accept feedback, and support team workflow.
Ability to meet the position's physical demands, including walking, standing, bending, and lifting or moving objects.
May be required to pass near-vision and/or color-vision examinations.
Must be a U.S. person under ITAR/EAR definitions or eligible to obtain required U.S. Department of State and/or Department of Commerce authorizations.

Responsibilities

Set up and operate CNC or manual lathes, mills, Swiss machines, OD/ID grinders, and other machinery to produce precision metal parts.
Perform supporting operations such as manual material removal and sub-assembly according to established procedures.
Perform first-piece inspections; Level II employees are required to train in these processes.
Follow detailed work instructions and standardized processes to maintain production efficiency and accuracy.
Interpret engineering blueprints and apply GD&T knowledge appropriate to the level.
Use gages to inspect finished products and record and maintain data according to operating standards and SOPs.
Apply and uphold 5S principles, maintain workstation organization and cleanliness, and contribute to improvements in work practices.
Follow safety protocols and promote safety accountability within the team.
Identify deviations from standards, resolve or escalate them according to established processes, and diagnose machining problems as appropriate to the level.
Prioritize work to meet schedules and efficiency standards; participate in daily management and continuous-improvement activities.
Communicate and collaborate with team members and supervisors, escalate immediate issues, share knowledge, and support team objectives.
Use basic computer software, including email, spreadsheets, and data-entry tools; use specialized software where applicable.
At Level II, select machine inserts and tooling, champion team-wide 5S practices, and foster cross-functional collaboration and continuous improvement.

Benefits

Annual cash bonus opportunity for all members.
401(k) match of 4.5%.
Annual Woodward stock contribution of 5%.
Tuition reimbursement and training/professional development opportunities.
12 paid holidays, including floating holidays.
Medical, dental, and vision insurance upon date of hire.
Vacation, sick time, vacation buy-up, short-term disability, and bereavement leave.
Paid parental leave.
Adoption assistance.
Employee Assistance Program, including mental health benefits.
Member life and AD&D insurance and long-term disability coverage.
Member optional life insurance.
Member referral bonus.
Spouse and child optional life insurance and optional AD&D.
Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts.
Voluntary benefits including home and auto insurance discounts, whole life insurance, critical illness insurance, legal assistance, and military leave.
Shift premium and overtime.