Escomatic Setup Machinist

POSITION SUMMARY

Automatic Precision, Inc. is seeking a skilled and experienced Escomatic Setup Machinist to join our Escomatic Department. In this role you will be responsible for the complete setup, changeover, and first-article approval of Escomatic D-2, D-4, and

D-6 screw machines for high-volume precision turned component production. You will work closely with production operators, quality, and supervisors to ensure jobs are set up efficiently, parts are on specification, and machines are running at peak

performance. Experience with Escomatic or cam-driven screw machines is strongly preferred - will train the right candidate.

ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Machine Setup: Perform complete setups and changeovers on Escomatic D-2, D-4, and D-6 machines including cam selection and insert grinding, tooling installation, coil/bar stock threading, and speed/feed adjustments
2. First Article:Run and inspect first-article parts against blueprints and customer specifications before releasing jobs to production operators; document all first article results
3. Production Support: Monitor running jobs, assist operators with quality issues, and make real-time adjustments to tooling, cams, and settings to maintain dimensional compliance
4. Quality Assurance: Use precision measuring instruments including micrometers, calipers, optical comparators, and go/no-go gauges to verify part dimensions, tolerances, and surface finish
5. Troubleshooting: Diagnose and resolve machine issues including cam wear, tool breakage, feed problems, and mechanical malfunctions; perform repairs to minimize production downtime
6. Process Optimization: Collaborate with engineering and production management to optimize cam profiles, tooling selections, and cycle times to improve productivity and reduce scrap
7. Maintenance: Perform routine and preventive maintenance on Escomatic machines; maintain a clean, safe, and organized work cell
8. Documentation: Complete setup sheets, first article records, cam logs, and all required documentation accurately and on time

SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS

1. High school diploma or equivalent required; technical or vocational training in machining preferred
2. Minimum 2 years of hands-on experience setting up Escomatic or other cam-driven screw machines in a production environment strongly preferred
3. Working knowledge of Escomatic cam design, cam grinding, and tooling selection
4. Proficiency with precision measuring instruments: micrometers, calipers, optical comparators, and gauges
5. Ability to read and interpret engineering blueprints, technical drawings, and GD&T callouts
6. Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills
7. Understanding of cutting tool geometry, grades, and wear patterns in high-speed screw machine operations
8. Excellent attention to detail and a commitment to first-time quality and consistent output
9. Good communication skills; ability to work effectively with operators, quality personnel, and supervisors

WORK ENVIRONMENT

API's Escomatic Department is one of the largest in the United States, operating 153 Escomatic machines across D-2, D-4, and D-6 models running 24 hours a day, 5 days a week. Escomatic Setup Machinists are among the most valued members of

our team. We invest in our setup machinists and provide the support and resources needed to do the job right.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

1. Ability to stand and move on a production floor for extended periods
2. Ability to lift tooling, cams, and materials up to 50 lbs
3. Manual dexterity and fine motor control for cam grinding, tooling installation, and precision measurement
4. Regularly bending, reaching, and working in confined machine areas
5. Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to machine noise, cutting fluids, and metal chips

Automatic Precision, Inc. is a family-owned precision machining company based in Harwood Heights, Illinois, near Chicago and O’Hare International Airport. Founded in 1976, we manufacture small precision-turned metal components using CNC Swiss, Escomatic, cam Swiss, and rotary-transfer machining. Our ISO 9001:2015 certified operation includes more than 200 machines across approximately 30,000 square feet of manufacturing space. We serve customers in a wide range of industries and are committed to quality, consistency, teamwork, and building long-term relationships with both our customers and employees.