Precision Manual Machining Specialist — Industrial Pumps

Hydro•Chicago, IL

1d•$28 - $35•Onsite

About The Position

Shape the performance of critical pump components Hydro, Inc. is a global industrial pump engineering company headquartered in Chicago. Since 1969, we’ve grown into the world’s largest independent pump rebuilder, delivering engineering expertise, repair, and support services to customers worldwide. We’re hiring a Precision Manual Machining Specialist for our Chicago, IL facility in the West Loop. You’ll work hands-on in a clean, employee-focused, custom job shop environment—producing and refurbishing large pump parts with exacting accuracy. What a day looks like You’ll begin your shift reviewing job travelers and blueprints, plan setups for a Vertical Turret Lathe or manual lathe, and select the right jigs, fixtures, mandrels, and steady rests. As you machine impellers, wear rings, bearing housings, covers, and seals, you’ll validate dimensions using precision inspection tools and translate results into numerical data. You’ll collaborate with engineers and fellow machinists to refine procedures, troubleshoot issues, and keep our equipment running at peak performance—all while following Hydro shop safety policies.

Requirements

5+ years post-training as a manual machinist in an industrial setting, machining LARGE PARTS
Proficiency with manual lathes and Vertical Turret Lathes (VTLs)
Ability to machine pump shafts 3–10 ft and hold tolerances of 0.0005 in. or better using a steady rest
Strong shop math; ability to apply geometry for angles, radii, bolt circles, and related dimensions
Knowledge of feed rates and the impact of adjustments
Skilled at setting up jigs, fixtures, arbors, mandrels, centers, and clamps
Attention to detail; excellent manual/finger dexterity; coordination and control precision
High school diploma or equivalent; technical/vocational training in machining required (Journeyman preferred)
Ability to Commute: Chicago, IL 60607 (Required)
Ability to Relocate: Chicago, IL 60607 — Relocate before starting work (Required)

Responsibilities

Set up and manually machine custom components for a wide range of pump types in a job-shop environment
Produce and repair parts to specification, including impellers, wear-rings, bearing housings, covers, and seals
Interpret and work from mechanical drawings, blueprints, and sketches to define machining methods
Perform precision cutting, grinding, shaping, and fitting using horizontal and vertical boring mills and ID/OD grinders
Verify critical dimensions and record measurements using appropriate inspection equipment
Assess and improve machining procedures for efficiency and quality
Maintain machine tools and shop equipment in proper operating condition
Adhere to Hydro shop safety policies and procedures
Partner with engineers, shop staff, and machinists to solve problems and recommend solutions