Grind flat, cylindrical, or internal surfaces to specified size and finish; setups may be complex, dimensions highly accurate, and finishes fine. Actively participate in Continuous Improvement projects, which may include 5S, TPM, kaizen events, and setup reduction events, aligned with the commitment to continuous improvement activities in Article II of the collective bargaining agreement.

Position Summary
The Grinding Machine Operator sets up and operates grinding equipment according to blueprints and other specifications to produce aerospace components to required size, finish, and quality standards.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Set up grinding machines according to blueprints or other specifications.
• Operate 4-axis or 5-axis CNC machines.
• Grind flat, cylindrical, or internal surfaces to specified size and finish; setups may be complex, dimensions highly accurate, and finishes fine.
• Select the proper abrasive wheel, determine speed and feed, and apply lubricant when required.
• Identify opportunities for improvement and support ongoing process enhancements.
• Maintain a skill level that eliminates errors that cause nonconforming material and supports a consistent level of high-quality work.
• Identify nonconformances at the time of occurrence, recognize opportunities for nonconformances, and notify management when action is needed.
• Actively participate in Continuous Improvement projects, which may include 5S, TPM, kaizen events, and setup reduction events, aligned with the commitment to continuous improvement activities in Article II of the collective bargaining agreement.
• Work safely at all times and participate in safety improvement initiatives by raising safety concerns and helping develop corrective actions.
• Assist or train other employees as needed.
• Refer difficulties to a leader or supervisor as appropriate.
• Carry out additional tasks, not specifically listed, within the scope and skill level of this job description in support of department or cell objectives and individual skill development.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Applied Aerospace and Defense is an equal opportunity employer.

Benefits

Time Off

• 28 total paid days off 15 vacation days plus 13 holidays.

Health Benefits (open enrollment Oct 2026 for 2027-year will be changing so I'll update once I have details)

• Medical: Healthcare $99.33/month for employee coverage or $290.27/month for family coverage.
• Dental: Healthcare $3.09/month for employee coverage or $11.59/month for family coverage.
• Vision: VSP $3.83/month for employee coverage or $12.15/month for family coverage.

Retirement

• 401(k): 100% match on the first 3% contributed, plus a 50% match on the next 3%, for a maximum employer contribution of 4.5% of salary.

Additional Benefits

• HSA: Company contribution of $500 for individual coverage or $1,000 for family coverage.
• HRA: Up to $500 for individual coverage or $1,000 for family coverage through a Health Reimbursement Arrangement.
• FSA: Available for additional tax-advantaged savings.
• Long-term and short-term disability coverage.
• Life insurance.
• 12 weeks of FMLA for family or medical leave.
• When combined, the HSA and HRA employer contributions may provide up to $2,000 toward family healthcare costs, in addition to affordable insurance premiums.