Mill Machinist

General Dynamics Mission Systems, Inc•Cullman, AL

6d•$34 - $36•Onsite

About The Position

As a Machinist for General Dynamics Mission Systems (GDMS) Precision Structures & Optics (PSO) in Cullman, Alabama, you will join a cross-functional team manufacturing beryllium products for demanding aerospace, defense, and nuclear applications. The products are used in high-performance sensing systems for targeting and acquisition, surveillance, and reconnaissance, and are designed for battlefield environments. The role involves setting up and operating CNC equipment to manufacture complex precision components, interpreting engineering and manufacturing documentation, and ensuring parts meet specified tolerances and surface finishes. You will monitor and troubleshoot machining processes, identify and report nonconforming conditions, maintain precision components and equipment, and collaborate with engineering, programming, and quality teams to improve production. The position is fully on-site at the Cullman, Alabama facility.

Requirements

Technical certificate, three years of experience, or equivalent.
U.S. citizenship is required due to the nature of the work.
Applicants selected must undergo a U.S. Government security investigation and meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.
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.
Proficiency reading engineering drawings and applying GD&T, including datums, feature control frames, and positional requirements.
Skilled use of 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, and 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 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, with 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, perform 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 in accordance with work instructions.
Collaborate with engineers, CNC programmers, and quality personnel to improve manufacturability, repeatability, and production efficiency.
Communicate effectively 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.