Job Overview

The Operator - Shafting Cell is responsible for setting up and operating a variety of precision machining equipment including CNC Mill/Turn Centers, CNC OD Grinders, and Gear Hobber/Spliners. The role involves performing all machining operations possible on these tools and conducting final inspections as necessary. The machinist works collaboratively as part of the Shafting Cell team to ensure production schedules and goals are met through efficient material flow, precision work quality, and adherence to safety and quality standards. 

This position reports to the Production Supervisor and requires a high level of skill, attention to detail, and ability to perform close-tolerance machining operations in accordance with established procedures and specifications.

Shift: 3rd

Schedule: Sunday-Thursday

Key Job Responsibilities

Facilities and Equipment:
Operation and setup of CNC Mill/Turn Center, CNC OD Grinder, and CNC Gear Hobber/Spliner. Use of various cutters, hobs, arbors, cutting tools, dressing tools, fixtures, holding devices, live spindle tooling, tool changers, gauges, and other precision measuring tools. Additional use of machinist hand tools, steady rests, CNC conversational control programming systems, and desktop personal computers. Manual operation of jib or floor-operated overhead cranes and hoists is also required.

Materials:
Work primarily involves machining pinions and shafts made of cast iron, rolled, welded, cast, or forged plain and alloy steel, as well as non-ferrous and non-metallic materials. Use of lubricants, cutting oils, and coolants is essential to operations.

Working Procedure:

• Review job schedules and determine sequence of operations.

• Secure necessary drawings, tool sheets, programming packages, and setup procedures.

• Preset and load tools into machines as specified.

• Perform manual edits and adjustments to CNC programs as needed.

• Load and center workpieces using headstock, tailstock, chucks, or fixtures, with crane or hoist assistance when required.

• Perform close-tolerance machining operations such as milling, drilling, boring, grinding, counterboring, spot facing, tapping, reaming, hobbing, and splining.

• Conduct manual deburring and part inspections to print and routing specifications.

• Monitor tool wear, make necessary adjustments, and ensure compliance with ASA/AGMA standards for splines and gears.

• Perform final inspection and document results as required.

• Conduct preventive maintenance on machines per established schedules.

• Maintain a clean, safe, and orderly work area in accordance with established inspection and safety procedures.

Cell team members are expected to operate all equipment and perform all functions within the cell to maintain optimal material flow, meet production schedules, and achieve cell goals.

Qualifications/Requirements

• Experience setting up and operating CNC machinery including Mill/Turn Centers, OD Grinders, and Gear Hobber/Spliners.

• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and setup sheets.

• Knowledge of CNC programming, including manual edits and conversational controls.

• Proficiency in precision measurement and inspection techniques using gauges and measuring tools.

• Familiarity with ASA/AGMA standards for splines and gears preferred.

• Ability to safely operate overhead cranes, hoists, and related material handling equipment.

• Strong commitment to workplace safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

• Ability to work effectively within a team environment and meet production targets.

• Willingness to perform all functions within the cell, including inspection, minor assembly, documentation, and material movement.