Manual Machinist
Job Description
| Position | Manual Machinist |
| Reports To | Manufacturing Leader |
| Location/Business | Cudahy, WI / Milwaukee Cylinder |
| Status | Hourly |
| Date | 09/09/2026 |
Summary
We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Manual Machinist to join our production team. In this role, you will be responsible for setting up and operating manual machining equipment to produce high-quality precision parts, custom components, and repairs. The ideal candidate blends traditional mechanical craftsmanship with a sharp eye for detail to ensure every component meets our rigorous engineering standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Machine Operation: Set up and operate manual mills, lathes, grinders, and drill presses to perform precise tasks such as turning, facing, boring, threading, and milling.
- Technical Interpretation: Read and interpret technical blueprints, engineering drawings, and GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing) symbols to determine part dimensions, tolerances, and machining sequences.
- Material Selection & Setup: Select appropriate cutting tools, fixtures, feeds, and speeds based on the material being machined (e.g., steel, aluminum, ductile iron, and others).
- Quality Control: Perform frequent in-process inspections using precision quality gauges (micrometers, calipers, dial indicators, depth gauges, and thread gauges) to verify part dimensions.
- Prototyping & Repair: Fabricate custom, low-volume, or one-off parts, and perform precision repairs on worn or damaged components.
- Maintenance: Perform routine machine maintenance, lubrication, and minor troubleshooting to keep manual machinery in optimal operating condition.
- Safety: Maintain a clean, organized, and safe workspace, adhering to all OSHA and company-specific safety protocols.
Qualifications & Skills
| Requirement | Description |
| Technical Knowledge | Deep understanding of manual machine setups, tool sharpening, and calculating manual speeds and feeds for various materials. |
| Blueprints | Proven ability to interpret complex mechanical drawings, schematics, and geometric tolerances. |
| Measurement Tools | Expert use of manual precision measuring instruments to verify part accuracy within 0.001” (or as specified). |
| Experience | 3+ years of experience operating manual lathes and mills in a job shop or manufacturing environment (preferred). |
| Education | High School Diploma or equivalent; technical certification, vocational training, or journey-worker status is a plus. |
Physical Requirements & Work Environment
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
- Capable of standing for extended periods on concrete shop floors.
- Excellent hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity.
- Comfortable working around moving mechanical parts, flying chips, coolant, and moderate noise levels.
Note to Candidates: Accuracy is our top priority. We are looking for a teammate who takes pride in traditional craftsmanship and believes in “measuring twice and cutting once.” If you have a passion for precision hands-on manufacturing and a solid foundation in manual machining fundamentals, we want to hear from you.