Manual Machinist II

Fairbanks Morse Defense • Pascagoula, MS

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Bird-Johnson, a Fairbanks Morse Defense company, is seeking an experienced Inside Manual Machinist II to fabricate, rework, and repair high-precision metal components for defense and specialized industrial applications. The role works primarily in a controlled indoor shop environment and uses conventional machining equipment to solve machining challenges and produce parts that meet demanding quality and security standards.

The machinist sets up and operates manual machine tools, interprets engineering drawings and defense specifications, selects tooling and workholding, and performs precision inspections. The role also includes equipment maintenance and troubleshooting, accurate production and quality documentation, material traceability, and compliance with facility security requirements and classified-material handling protocols.

Requirements

• At least five years of experience operating manual machine tools in a precision manufacturing or defense-oriented environment.
• U.S. citizenship and the ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
• Strong proficiency in GD&T, precision measurement, shop mathematics including trigonometry, and manual machine setup.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds, stand for extended periods, and work safely around heavy rotating equipment.
• Current forklift and crane certification, or the ability to obtain certification.
• Commitment to quality and safe work practices, with the ability to collaborate productively with machinists, engineering, and quality teams.

Nice To Haves

• Active DoD Confidential clearance.
• Completion of a formal machinist apprenticeship program or possession of a Journeyman card.
• Experience machining defense-grade alloys.
• Experience working within ISO 9001 or AS9100 quality systems.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate manual lathes, vertical and horizontal milling machines, surface grinders, drill presses, and boring mills to manufacture precision components to blueprint specifications.
• Read and interpret complex engineering drawings, defense specifications, GD&T, and shop routing sheets.
• Select, align, and secure cutting tools, attachments, workholding fixtures, and raw stock.
• Calculate appropriate speeds, feeds, and depths of cut for materials including stainless steel, titanium, and high-temperature alloys.
• Perform in-process and final dimensional inspections using micrometers, dial indicators, bore gauges, height gauges, and optical comparators.
• Maintain tight tolerances specified by engineering drawings and job requirements.
• Perform daily preventive maintenance on assigned equipment.
• Identify and resolve machining issues to protect part quality, equipment, and shop safety.
• Maintain accurate material traceability, job routing sheets, and quality records.
• Follow applicable facility security requirements and classified-material handling protocols.
• Work productively and safely with fellow machinists, engineering, and quality teams.

Benefits

• Benefits beginning on the first day of hire.
• 401(k) plan with employer match.
• 100% tuition reimbursement after 12 months of employment.
• Annual 5% company performance-based bonus opportunity.
• Opportunities for skills development and career advancement.
• Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance.
• Paid time off and paid holidays.
• Paid parental leave.

What This Job Offers

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