Manual Machinist

Qualdoc•Richmond, VA

About The Position

We are seeking an experienced Manual Machinist for a hands-on machining role. This is not a machine operator position. The machinist will set up and operate manual machines, select tooling, read technical drawings, make necessary adjustments, and produce precision parts that meet specified dimensions and tolerances. Candidates must have practical machining experience, be able to make independent decisions at the machine, and demonstrate a strong commitment to quality, accuracy, and safety. The role is based in Richmond, Virginia, and is offered as contract to hire. First- and second-shift schedules are available. Starting pay is $28.00 per hour; higher pay may be available depending on experience.

Requirements

CNC certification is required.
Strong manufacturing background.
Hands-on machining experience, particularly with manual mills and lathes.
Ability to read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and technical specifications.
Knowledge of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T).
Proficiency in machine setup, tooling selection, measurement, and machining adjustments.
Understanding of controls, instrumentation, and tooling.
Strong conceptual and problem-solving skills.
Process improvement skills.
Effective verbal communication skills.
Functional and technical proficiency.
Strong attention to detail and sound judgment.
Ability to work independently and maintain quality and safety standards.
Ability to stand on concrete floors for at least eight hours.
Ability to kneel, squat, bend over, and stand for extended periods as required to perform assigned tasks.
Must provide basic tools, including box-end, open-end, and socket wrench sets; an Allen wrench set; a screwdriver set; tap handles; pliers; a combination square; a 9-inch level; and a tape measure.
Required safety attire includes safety glasses, steel-toed safety shoes, long pants, and a shirt with sleeves at least short-sleeved.

Nice To Haves

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

Responsibilities

Plan machining operations by reviewing work orders, blueprints, engineering plans, materials, specifications, orthographic drawings, reference planes, surface locations, and machining parameters.
Interpret geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) requirements.
Program mills and lathes by entering instructions, establishing zero and reference points, setting tool registers, offsets, and compensation, configuring conditional switches, calculating machining requirements using basic math, geometry, and trigonometry, and proving part programs.
Set up mills and lathes by installing and adjusting three-jaw and four-jaw chucks, tools, attachments, collets, bushings, cams, gears, stops, and stock pushers.
Indicate vises and tram machine heads as needed.
Load stock into feed mechanisms by lifting materials into position.
Verify machine settings by measuring positions, first-run parts, and sample workpieces in accordance with applicable international standards.
Maintain machining specifications while performing drilling, grooving, cutting, turning, facing, knurling, and thread-chasing operations.
Take accurate measurements, detect malfunctions, troubleshoot machining processes, adjust or reprogram controls, and sharpen or replace worn tools.
Follow quality assurance procedures and processes to ensure finished parts meet required specifications.
Maintain safe operations by following established safety procedures and regulations.
Perform preventive maintenance on equipment according to manufacturer instructions, troubleshoot malfunctions, and coordinate repairs when necessary.
Maintain continuity between shifts by documenting and communicating completed work, irregularities, and outstanding needs.
Keep technical knowledge current by participating in training and educational opportunities and reading technical publications.
Take ownership of assigned responsibilities, support organizational goals, and identify opportunities to improve work processes and add value.