Thread Grinder Operator

Helix Operating Company LLC•Beachwood, OH

1d•$20 - $26•Onsite

About The Position

The Thread Grinding Operator operates CNC thread grinding machines to produce high-precision ball screws to exact specifications. This role primarily supports ball screw manufacturing using Drake CNC thread grinding equipment, a highly specialized and niche process. Thread grinding at Helix is a critical operation that directly impacts product performance, accuracy, and reliability. While prior experience with Drake machines is ideal, we recognize the specialized nature of this work and expect to train the right candidate with strong adjacent experience. This role is well suited for someone with a background in thread grinding, cylindrical OD grinding, and general CNC machining experience who is detail-oriented, mechanically inclined, and motivated to learn a highly specialized process.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED; technical school training preferred or equivalent experience
Prior experience in CNC thread grinding (Drake experience strongly preferred) or Cylindrical OD grinding
CNC machining in a precision manufacturing environment
Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings
Proficiency using micrometers, indicators, and basic inspection tools
Strong shop math skills
Familiarity with CNC machine interfaces; no G-code programming required (menu-based input)
Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs
Comfortable working around grinding fluids and oils
Experience with metals common to precision motion components; steel, stainless, aluminum
Detail-oriented and patient, with a strong respect for precision work
Mechanically inclined and comfortable working with tight tolerances
Confident reading and interpreting engineering drawings
Comfortable working in a highly specialized, repeatable machining process
Open to training and motivated to develop expertise in a niche manufacturing skill
Dependable, safety-minded, and team-oriented

Nice To Haves

Drake machines experience

Responsibilities

Set up and operate CNC thread grinding machines (Drake) to grind ball screws to print specifications
Grind precision threads to required form, pitch, lead, and surface finish
Input part-specific data into menu-based CNC controls using engineering drawings
Monitor grinding operations to maintain dimensional accuracy and surface quality
Inspect parts using micrometers, indicators, and other precision measuring tools
Verify thread accuracy and identify dimensional or surface defects
Make offset adjustments as needed to maintain process control
Follow quality standards, work instructions, and ISO 9001 and AS9100 procedures
Accurately document inspection results and production output
Safely move parts between operations using appropriate material-handling equipment
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment
Support continuous improvement and assist with other duties as assigned