Machinist

This role focuses on operating CNC machines in a job shop environment to manufacture complex, tight-tolerance components from engineering prints, meeting exacting quality and delivery requirements. You will perform advanced machine setups, program adjustments, and full print-to-part machining on both small and extremely large components, with on-the-job training provided to support continued growth into highly specialized work.

• Operate CNC machine tools to perform complex, progressive machining operations on a diverse range of components, from small parts to extremely large, high-value alloys.
• Perform advanced setup operations on CNC mills and lathes, including multiple setups, offsets, and tool changes to support one-piece and multiple-run jobs.
• Adjust machine tools and verify programs, including editing and modifying G&M code to ensure optimal performance and adherence to specifications.
• Work from programming instructions, operational data, and machine setup documentation to define tool arrangements, material clamping methods, machine calibrations, and console settings.
• Execute machining operations such as boring, milling, drilling, facing, threading, and occasional profiling and contouring according to engineering prints and GD&T requirements.
• Complete full print-to-part machining, taking responsibility for parts from initial setup through final machining and inspection.
• Check machined parts for conformance to specifications using blueprints, GD&T, and measurement tools, and determine whether parts can still be machined to spec when issues arise.
• Maintain and monitor multiple machines or units simultaneously when required, ensuring consistent quality and throughput.
• Adjust speeds and feeds during operation to optimize machining performance and protect expensive materials and tooling.
• Support machining of very large parts, including components weighing from approximately 10,000 lbs to 100,000 lbs and up to 12 feet in diameter on lathes.
• Participate in extensive training on specialized setups and machining processes, with the understanding that full proficiency in complex operations may take up to 18 months.
• Follow all safety procedures and use required personal protective equipment while working around moving machinery, oil, debris, fumes, and high noise levels.
• Perform job duties that involve bending, stooping, twisting, and occasional heavy lifting up to 50 lbs without mechanical assistance, using mechanical aids for heavier loads.
• Collaborate with team members and supervisors to take on new builds and projects on a regular basis, contributing to continuous improvement and efficient workflow.

• Proven ability in blueprint reading and full print-to-part machining, translating engineering drawings into finished components.
• Strong understanding of GD&T to assess part conformance and determine whether a part can still be machined to specification.
• Minimum of 4+ years of experience performing print-to-part machining using CNC mills or lathes.
• Minimum of 4+ years of experience editing or programming G&M code on controls such as Heidenhain, Siemens, Fanuc, Mazak, or similar CNC control systems.
• Hands-on experience with CNC machining in a job shop or production environment, including complex setups and program adjustments.
• Ability to perform multiple setups, offsets, and program edits independently and efficiently.
• Comfort working with large, heavy components and high-value alloy materials while maintaining strict quality standards.
• Physical ability to perform bending, stooping, twisting, and lifting up to 50 lbs without mechanical assistance.
• Commitment to working safely in a manufacturing environment, consistently using PPE and following safety protocols.

• Experience machining larger parts, particularly components weighing 10,000 lbs or more.
• Experience with Heidenhain or Siemens controls, including setup, programming, and troubleshooting.
• Background in CNC mill machining and lathe machining, including large-part work.
• Experience with prototype machining, taking new builds and unique projects from concept to finished part.
• Familiarity with advanced CNC controls and print-to-part workflows, including HEIDENHAIN controls.
• Comfort working with GD&T and complex blueprints for aerospace, defense, and heavy equipment applications.
• Interest in continuous learning and willingness to undergo extensive training to master complex setups and machining operations.
• Ability to thrive in a high-volume, technically demanding environment with frequent new projects and builds.

This opportunity offers direct placement potential for most hires, with a contract-to-direct path available for others, providing long-term stability and career growth. You can work on some of the largest mills in the country, gaining rare and highly marketable experience with large, complex components for industries such as aviation, naval, and heavy machinery. The organization values skill development and is willing to invest in extensive training in areas where you may have less experience, supporting your progression into advanced skilled trades. Multiple shifts with significant shift premiums are available, and the volume and variety of work create strong opportunities for overtime and increased earnings. You can build a long-term trade, steadily advancing your skills and responsibilities over time within a large, technically sophisticated operation.

The role is based on a job shop manufacturing floor that is climate controlled, with exposure to oil, dirt, debris, fumes, moving machinery, equipment, and occasional high noise levels. Personal protective equipment is required at all times. Multiple shifts are available, including a third shift from Monday to Thursday approximately 4:15 pm to 4:45 am with a 16% shift premium, a weekend shift from Friday to Sunday approximately 5:00 pm to 5:30 am with a 30% shift premium and the option to pick up additional shifts during the week, and a day shift from Monday to Thursday approximately 6:00 am to 4:30 pm. Shifts typically include a 30-minute lunch with no additional scheduled breaks, and standard workweeks are around 48 hours with three days off for certain shifts. The facility operates large machining centers capable of handling steel fixtures up to roughly 20 yards wide and 20 feet deep, producing components for helicopters, naval ships, large machines, and heavy vehicles. The environment emphasizes safety, precision, and teamwork while working with very large fixtures and components in a high-technology machining setting.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Merrill, MI.

The pay range for this position is $19.47 - $36.20/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Merrill,MI.

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 31, 2026.

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.