Vertical Turret Lathe (VTL) Specialist — Pump Component Rebuilds

Hydro•Chicago, IL

7d•Onsite

About The Position

Hydro, Inc. is a global industrial pump engineering company headquartered in Chicago, specializing in the rebuilding and engineering of critical pumping equipment. With over five decades of experience, Hydro's independent, engineering-first approach helps customers across various industries extend the life and performance of their pumps. This role is based in a job shop environment where custom components and parts for a wide range of pumps are machined.

Requirements

Solid command of shop math and geometry for angles, radii, bolt circles, and precise dimensions.
Understanding of feed rates and how adjustments affect cut quality and tool life.
Hands-on skill setting up jigs, fixtures, arbors, mandrels, centers, and clamps.
Proven ability to machine pump shafts 3–10 ft long using a steady rest and hold tolerances of 0.0005 in. or better.
Exceptional attention to detail, manual dexterity, and fine control.
5+ years of post-training experience machining LARGE PARTS on manual machines in an industrial setting.
Technical or vocational training in machining (Journeyman preferred) and a high school diploma or equivalent.

Responsibilities

Set up and manually machine custom components and parts for a wide range of pumps in a job shop environment.
Produce and refurbish parts such as impellers, wear rings, bearing housings, covers, and seals to exacting specifications.
Interpret mechanical drawings, blueprints, and sketches to determine the best machining sequence and methods.
Perform precision cutting, grinding, shaping, and fitting using equipment including VTLs, manual lathes, horizontal/vertical boring mills, and ID/OD grinders.
Verify critical dimensions and convert readings into accurate numerical records with inspection tools.
Evaluate and refine setups and procedures for efficiency and repeatability.
Maintain tooling and machines to keep them in optimal condition.
Follow Hydro shop safety policies and procedures without compromise.
Partner with engineers, fellow machinists, and shop personnel to troubleshoot and solve problems.