Aerospace CNC Machinist — Mastercam Programmer

Company: Steel Tool & Engineering Co. | Industry: Aerospace Precision Machining & Fabrication

Locations: Trenton, MI & Taylor, MI

Employment: Full-time, Hourly

Pay Range: $19.25 – $24.00 per hour, based on experience

Shifts: 6:00 am – 4:30 pm; 12:00 pm – 10:30 pm; 3:30 pm – 2:00 am (additional $1.00/hr night shift premium)

A Day in the Life

You clock in, review today’s traveler, and load aerospace-grade material for a tight‑tolerance component. You verify the setup on a 5‑axis machining center, pull up the latest Mastercam program, and make careful edits to optimize cycle time. Mid-morning, you switch to a vertical turning lathe to rough and finish a precision diameter. After first‑article inspection, you review CMM results, dial in tool wear offsets at the controller, and bring features well within spec. In the afternoon, you fabricate a simple fixture and a set of custom chuck jaws for an upcoming run, clean down your machines, and document what the next operator needs for a seamless handoff. Quality, safety, and reliability guide every move you make.

About Us

Steel Tool & Engineering is an AS9100‑certified and NADCAP‑accredited aerospace manufacturer known for precision machining, complex metal fabrication, and welded assemblies. We deliver reliability and compliance across every program we run.

What You’ll Do

• Set up and run CNC horizontal lathes, vertical turning lathes (VTL), mills, and 5‑axis machining centers.
• Program and edit CNC code using Mastercam; adjust G‑code at the control as needed.
• Load material, set work and tool offsets, configure parameters, and execute machining to spec.
• Identify non‑conformances and implement corrective actions to protect quality and schedule.
• Interpret CMM reports; apply precise tool wear offsets at the controller.
• Build simple tooling, fixtures, and custom chuck jaws to support production.
• Read complex blueprints, GD&T callouts, and technical drawings confidently.
• Hold tight tolerances to aerospace standards while maintaining throughput.
• Troubleshoot machining issues, tool wear, and program errors efficiently.
• Perform routine maintenance and keep a clean, organized cell.
• Collaborate with supervisors and support fellow operators; mentor junior teammates.
• Meet productivity, quality, safety, attendance, and reliability expectations.

Qualifications

• Hands‑on expertise in CNC setup, operation, and in‑process adjustments.
• Proven Mastercam programming and editing experience.
• Solid grasp of G‑code; able to troubleshoot and refine CNC programs.
• Proficient with precision metrology: micrometers, calipers, height gauges, bore gauges.
• Experience machining aerospace‑grade materials and sheet metal components.
• Mechanical aptitude with strong problem‑solving skills.
• Able to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods.
• Clear communicator; willing to guide junior operators.
• Committed to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

Benefits

• Honored Vacation Time Off
• 100% Medical Paid (or $300/month medical waiver if you maintain your own coverage)
• Dental and Vision Insurance (includes dependents)
• Life Insurance
• 401(k)
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Vacations

You’re Proficient In

• Equipment Troubleshooting
• Troubleshooting Skills
• Mechanical Troubleshooting Skills
• Mechanical Assembly Skills
• Machine Setups for Production Runs
• Manual Machining Skills
• Meets Physical Requirements
• High School / GED
• Excellent Communication Skills
• Experience in a Manufacturing Environment
• Basic Computer Skills
• Calipers
• Micrometers

Machines & Technologies You’ll Use

• CNC Mill (3–4 axis VMC)
• CNC Lathe (2–4 axis)
• CNC Mill (5+ axis VMC)
• CNC Lathe (5+ axis)