Outside Machinist Trainer (Manual Machining)
Location: Newport News, VA
Position Type: Full-Time | 1st Shift
Relocation Assistance: Available
Travel: None
Work Authorization: U.S. Citizenship Required
Position Overview
HTI is seeking an experienced Outside Machinist Trainer to support a premier shipbuilding operation in the Charleston area. This role is responsible for training and developing outside machinists in manual machining, installation, and shipboard mechanical systems.
This is a hands-on training role, ideal for a senior outside machinist, lead, or foreman with strong mechanical aptitude and a passion for developing others.
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver hands-on and classroom training in outside machining and shipboard mechanical work
- Train employees on:
- Manual machining (lathes, milling machines, drilling, boring)
- Installation, alignment, and maintenance of shipboard equipment and components
- Precision measurement and tolerancing using micrometers, calipers, dial indicators, etc.
- Interpret and teach from blueprints, technical drawings, and work packages
- Develop and maintain training materials, lesson plans, and job aids
- Ensure adherence to safety standards, quality requirements, and shipyard procedures
- Evaluate trainee performance through hands-on demonstrations and assessments
- Maintain accurate training records and qualifications tracking
- Partner with production leadership to identify skill gaps and training needs
- Provide on-the-floor coaching to reinforce best practices and efficiency
Required Qualifications
- High School Diploma or GED
- One of the following:
- 6+ years of outside machinist or manual machining experience, OR
- Apprenticeship or technical degree with relevant experience
- Strong experience with:
- Manual machining (lathe, mill, drill, boring operations)
- Precision measurement tools and alignment techniques
- Mechanical installation and troubleshooting
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings
- Strong communication skills with the ability to train and mentor others
- Comfortable working in a hands-on, industrial/shipyard environment
Preferred Qualifications
- Prior experience as a trainer, instructor, lead, or foreman
- Shipbuilding, naval, or heavy industrial experience
- Experience with shaft alignment, pumps, valves, turbines, or propulsion systems
- Familiarity with NAVSEA standards or similar quality systems
- Experience developing or delivering formal training programs
Work Environment
- Shipyard/industrial environment with exposure to:
- Heavy equipment and machinery
- Confined spaces and shipboard conditions
- Noise, heat, and physically demanding work
- Requires ability to stand, climb, and perform hands-on demonstrations
Why This Role Stands Out
- Opportunity to train and develop highly specialized machinists
- Work on mission-critical naval systems and components
- Direct impact on quality, safety, and production performance
- Long-term, stable opportunity with a leading defense contractor