Machinist / CNC Operator

Machinist / CNC Operator Company: Mission Critical Solutions (MCS) - Critical Equipment Division Location: Alum Bank, Pennsylvania Reports To: Manufacturing Manager / Lead Engineer Position Summary Mission Critical Solutions (MCS) is seeking a skilled Machinist / CNC Operator to support precision manufacturing of custom components for defense, infrastructure, and industrial applications. The ideal candidate has hands-on experience in setup, operation, and basic programming of CNC lathes and mills, and is comfortable working from technical drawings and CAD/CAM files to produce tight-tolerance parts in steel, aluminum, and specialty alloys. This position plays a key role in producing parts that meet ISO 9001 and CMMC quality standards for MCS’s Critical Equipment product line, including TL-4 rated road barrier systems, mobile power platforms, and precision-fabricated assemblies.

Key Responsibilities:

 Set up and operate CNC mills, lathes, and manual machines to produce precision parts per engineering drawings and specifications.  Read and interpret blueprints, GD&T drawings, and process sheets to determine machining requirements.  Create, edit, and optimize CNC programs using G-code and/or CAM software.  Verify part dimensions using precision measuring instruments (micrometers, calipers, height gauges).  Perform tool setup, offsets, and fixture alignment to ensure part accuracy and repeatability.  Maintain machine cleanliness, lubrication, and safety standards.  Collaborate with engineering and fabrication teams to resolve design or manufacturability challenges.  Contribute to continuous improvement efforts in productivity, quality, and safety.  Document production runs and inspection results in accordance with internal quality procedures.

Desired Technical Experience:

 CNC Programming:

 Proficiency with G-code, Fanuc, Haas, or Siemens controls.  Experience using CREO or GIBBSCAM for toolpath creation preferred.  Ability to make on-machine program edits and optimizations.

 Machining Processes:

 3- and 4-axis milling, turning, drilling, and tapping of steels, aluminum, and specialty materials.  Understanding of feeds, speeds, and tooling selection.  Have some experience with manual mills and lathes.

 CAD/CAM Integration:

 Experience reading and working from 3D CAD models (STEP/IGES/SolidWorks).  Ability to provide feedback to engineering on model-to-part transition issues.

 Quality & Inspection:

 Familiarity with ISO 9001 documentation and quality control practices.  Use of CMM or optical inspection systems is a plus.

Qualifications:

 2+ years of CNC machining or equivalent technical experience.  Trade school diploma or associate degree in Machining Technology, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field preferred.  Demonstrated ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings.  Strong mechanical aptitude and attention to detail.  Ability to work independently and as part of a cross-functional team.  Must meet eligibility requirements for work on defense-related contracts (U.S. citizenship required).

Compensation & Benefits:

 Competitive hourly wage based on experience.  Overtime opportunities and performance incentives.  Health, dental, and vision insurance.  401(k) plan with company match.  Paid time off and holidays.  Opportunities for training and advancement in advanced manufacturing and engineering support roles.