1st Shift Machinist

THE ROLE
Rotating Machinery Services (RMS Inc.) is seeking an experienced 1st Shift Machinist to join the Fusion Houston operations team. The 1st Shift Machinist is responsible for setting up and operating manual machining equipment to manufacture, repair and modify precision components according to engineering specifications. This role ensures high-quality workmanship, maintains safe operation practices and supports production goals by producing accurate parts in a timely and efficient manner.

 T setting up and operating manual machining equipment to manufacture, repair, and modify precision components according, and supports production goals by producing accurate parts in a timely and efficient manner.
 

SKILLS REQUIRED
 
LEADERSHIP & ORGANIZATION
Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.

Strong attention to detail with the ability to manage changing priorities.

Displays ownership, accountability, and sound judgment in daily shop decisions.

Ability to align labor, equipment, and workload priorities based on real-time shop demands.
COMMUNICATION & TEAMWORK
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Ability to communicate clearly with shop personnel, Management, QC, Engineering, and supporting departments.

Ability to lead teams, resolve issues professionally, and promote cooperation across departments.
EFFICIENCY & ACCOUNTABILITY
Ability to multitask, prioritize, and manage time and resources effectively.

Ability to manage additional projects and responsibilities as assigned at the company’s discretion.

Ability to monitor performance, follow up on commitments, and drive completion of assigned work.
 

PRIMARY ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES
 

Set up, indicate, align, and machine large rotating and reciprocating components, including shafts, piston rods, journals, sleeves, and similar repair components.

Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, sketches, and work orders.

Machine precision parts to specified dimensions and tolerances.

Select, install, and adjust cutting tools, fixtures, and work-holding devices.

Measure and inspect finished parts using precision measuring instruments such as calipers, micrometers, bore gauges, and dial indicators.

Perform precision machining before and after coating, grinding, thermal spray, or laser-cladding operations.

Calculate dimensions, cutting speeds, feeds, and material requirements.

Deburr, polish, and finish machined parts to customer specifications.

Verify runout, concentricity, straightness, diameters, and machining allowances throughout the repair process.

      Perform routine maintenance and cleaning of machines and equipment.

      Safely assist with the rigging, lifting, loading, and positioning of large components using overhead cranes

      and approved lifting devices.       

      Maintain accurate production, inspection, and maintenance records.

      Follow all safety procedures and wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).

      Keep the work area clean, organized, and compliant with 5S or housekeeping standards.

      Work collaboratively with supervisors, engineers, quality personnel, and other team members to meet   

      production schedules.

     Continuously monitor product quality and ensure compliance with company and customer specifications.

     Assist in training less experienced machinists and support continuous improvement

     Continuously monitor product quality and ensure compliance with company and customer specifications.

 
ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES
    The above list is not all-inclusive and may change based on the needs of the company.
 
 

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS
Minimum of five years of manual machining experience, preferably involving large shafts, rotating equipment, repair machining, or heavy industrial components.

An equivalent combination of apprenticeship and demonstrated experience could still be accepted.

Proficient in operating manual lathes, mills, drill presses, grinders, and other conventional machine tools.

Experience reading and interpreting blueprints, engineering drawings, and technical specifications.

Demonstrated ability to machine parts to close tolerances using precision measuring instruments.

Experience using calipers, micrometers, dial indicators, bore gauges, height gauges, and other inspection equipment.

Knowledge of machining practices, tooling selection, cutting speeds, and feeds for a variety of materials.

Ability to perform machine setups, troubleshoot machining issues, and produce quality parts with minimal supervision.

Strong understanding of workplace safety practices and quality standards in a manufacturing environment.

 EDUCATION
High school diploma or GED required.

Technical certificate or diploma in Machine Tool Technology, Precision Machining, Manufacturing Technology, or a related field preferred.

Equivalent combination of education, formal apprenticeship, and relevant work experience will be considered.

Ongoing training in machining, safety, and manufacturing best practices is encouraged.
 

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
The position is based at the RMS Fusion facility in Houston, TX.

This is a full-time position, with a minimum expectation of 40 hours per week. Additional hours, including evenings or weekends, may be required based on project needs.

This position may be subject to company random and/or customer-specific drug and alcohol screening and background checks.

Must possess a valid driver’s license.

Ability to pass a pre-employment drug and alcohol test and background check.

Ability to act professionally under stressful situations.

Able to understand, read, write, and speak English.

Must not have allergies or issues related to handling metals, including aluminum, copper, bronze, and steel.

Authorized to work in the United States.

      This position can be required to participate in the company random or customer specific drug and alcohol screening              

and background check RMS Inc. may have government contracts that impose specific requirements on employees working on those projects. If an employee does not meet these requirements, they may be reassigned to a different location or be ineligible to work on certain assignments.

Work Environment

While performing the duties of this position, the employee may enter a shop environment with exposure to moving mechanical parts. While the work area may be generally clean and safe, machining, grinding, and production operations may generate moderate noise and require appropriate PPE.

This position works primarily in an industrial machine-shop environment with exposure to moving machinery, metal chips, cutting fluids, oils, grinding dust, elevated noise levels, and varying temperatures. Required PPE must be always worn.

       Must not have allergies or issues related to handling metals including aluminum, copper, bronze, and steel.