Manual Machinist – Mills & Lathes

Qualdoc•Richmond, VA

4d•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking an experienced Manual Machinist to set up and operate manual mills and lathes to produce precision components. This is a hands-on machining role, not a machine operator position. The ideal candidate can independently interpret technical drawings, select tooling, make machine adjustments, and ensure finished parts meet required specifications and tolerances. The position is located in Richmond, Virginia, and is contract-to-hire. First- and second-shift schedules are available. Starting pay is $28.00 per hour, with higher pay potentially available depending on experience.

Requirements

CNC certification is required.
Strong manufacturing and machining background.
Experience setting up and operating manual mills and lathes.
Ability to read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and GD&T.
Knowledge of machining tools, controls, instrumentation, and tooling.
Basic math, geometry, and trigonometry skills.
Strong attention to detail, judgment, and problem-solving abilities.
Good verbal communication and technical skills.
Ability to identify process improvements and work independently.
Ability to stand on concrete floors for at least eight hours per shift.
Ability to perform frequent standing, bending, kneeling, and squatting.

Nice To Haves

CNC programming experience.
Both English and metric tool sets are recommended.
A lockable toolbox is recommended.

Responsibilities

Review work orders, blueprints, engineering drawings, and material specifications to determine machining requirements.
Interpret GD&T, orthographic drawings, reference points, and machining parameters.
Set up and adjust mills and lathes, including chucks, collets, vises, cutting tools, attachments, bushings, cams, gears, stops, and stock pushers.
Program mills and lathes by entering instructions, setting zero and reference points, and adjusting tool registers, offsets, and compensation.
Apply basic math, geometry, and trigonometry to calculate machining requirements and verify programs.
Load and position raw materials into machine feed mechanisms.
Perform drilling, grooving, cutting, turning, facing, knurling, and thread-chasing operations.
Inspect finished and sample parts with measuring instruments to verify dimensions and tolerances.
Monitor machining processes, identify equipment issues, troubleshoot problems, and adjust machine controls as needed.
Sharpen or replace worn cutting tools and make necessary machine adjustments or reprogramming changes.
Follow quality assurance procedures and maintain accurate production standards.
Perform preventive maintenance, troubleshoot equipment malfunctions, and coordinate repairs.
Follow workplace safety procedures and communicate shift updates, equipment issues, and production needs.
Maintain technical knowledge through training and review of machining publications.