Machinist 3 - Days Nights Weekends

Northrop Grumman Northrop Grumman · Aerospace · Lake Charles, LA +1 · Manufacturing and Production

Machinist 3 role focused on operating and setting up CNC mills and lathes, performing manual machining, and creating precision tooling and fixtures. Requires interpreting blueprints, GD&T, and CAD models, and selecting machining parameters. Involves self-inspection and collaboration with engineers and quality personnel. Basic qualifications include a high school diploma and 5 years of machine shop experience, with preferred qualifications including advanced programming, specific control knowledge, and aerospace background.

What you'd actually do

  1. Set up, and operate CNC mills and lathes for precision tooling, fixtures, and production support parts.
  2. Design and build custom fixturing, jigs, and tooling for one-off or prototype applications to support assembly and flight hardware operations.
  3. Perform manual machining (mills, lathes, drill press, surface grinders) for tool repair, modifications, or prototype development.
  4. Read and interpret detailed blueprints, GD&T callouts, and 3D CAD models.
  5. Select tools, calculate feeds/speeds, and verify machining parameters for accuracy, efficiency, and repeatability.

Skills

Required

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • minimum of 5 years of experience working in a machine shop
  • Ability to interpret blueprints, sketches, GD & T, and other engineering specifications
  • Working knowledge of shop floor mathematics and measuring tools/equipment
  • Ability to set up and operate a variety of machine tools such as lathes, milling machines, and grinders
  • Be able to use basic hand tools and precision measuring instruments
  • Ability to lift to 40lbs
  • Willingness to learn and possess a positive team working attitude
  • Excellent communication, problem solving and troubleshooting skills
  • Demonstrate ability to work safely and be concerned for the safety of others
  • Able to work any shift. (Includes: Days, Nights and Weekends)

Nice to have

  • 8 or more years of relevant experience
  • Advanced proficiency in Mastercam programming for milling and turning
  • Strong working knowledge of Haas controls (NextGen or Classic)
  • Demonstrated ability to design and fabricate custom fixtures and tooling
  • Deep understanding of feeds, speeds, cutter geometry, and material behavior
  • Capable of performing setups, first articles, and in-process inspections independently
  • Strong problem-solving, troubleshooting, and planning skills
  • Associate’s degree or vocational certificate in machining, manufacturing technology, or related field
  • Background in aerospace, tooling, or high-precision prototype manufacturing
  • Experience with 4th/5th-axis machining, setup documentation, and digital manufacturing workflows
  • Familiarity with inspection tools, CMM processes