Job Summary:
Service Steel Aerospace (SSA) is a leading global distributor of high-performance aerospace metals, including stainless steel, titanium, and specialty alloys. With 50 years of experience, SSA supports the aerospace, defense, and advanced manufacturing industries with quality materials and reliable service.
We are committed to delivering excellence through strong customer partnerships, technical expertise, and a focus on safety and continuous improvement. Join a stable, growing company where your work directly supports critical industries worldwide.
The Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, programming (as required), and operating CNC machine tools to manufacture precision metal components that meet customer specifications and quality standards. This position interprets engineering drawings, selects appropriate tooling, verifies dimensions, and maintains equipment while ensuring a safe, efficient, and organized work environment. The Machine Operator works closely with Quality, Engineering, and Production teams to meet production schedules and continuous improvement objectives.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Set up and operate CNC lathes, and other CNC machining equipment.
- Make machine offsets and adjustments to maintain dimensional accuracy.
- Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, work orders, and specifications.
- Select and install cutting tools, fixtures, and work-holding devices.
- Verify first-piece and in-process inspections using precision measuring instruments.
- Measure parts using micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, height gauges, indicators, and other inspection equipment.
- Monitor machining operations and adjust feeds, speeds, and tooling as necessary to optimize quality and efficiency.
- Perform routine machine maintenance and report equipment issues requiring repair.
- Deburr, clean, and prepare finished parts for the next manufacturing process or shipment.
- Maintain accurate production and quality records.
- Identify and troubleshoot machining problems to minimize downtime and scrap.
- Follow all quality management system requirements and company procedures.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area in accordance with company safety policies.
- Assist in continuous improvement initiatives focused on productivity, quality, and cost reduction.
- Support cross-training and perform other duties as assigned.
Physical Requirements:
Stand or Sit(Stationary position), Walk(Move, Traverse), Use hand/fingers to handle or feel (Operate, Activate, Use, Prepare, Inspect, Place, Detect, Position), Climb (stairs/ladders) or balance (Ascend/Descend, Work atop, Traverse), Stoop, kneel, crouch, or Crawl(Position self(to), Move), Talk/hear(Communicate, Detect, Converse with, Discern, Convey, Express oneself, Exchange information), See (Detect, Determine, Perceive, Identify, Recognize, Judge, Observe, Inspect, Estimate, Assess), Pushing or Pulling
Function in the Job:
Medium/Heavy work - Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects.
Required Skills:
- High school diploma or GED required; technical or vocational machining education preferred.
- 3–5 years of CNC machining experience in a manufacturing environment (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
- Experience machining stainless steel, titanium, alloy steels, and other specialty metals preferred.
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, and work instructions.
- Experience with CNC controls such as Haas, Fanuc, Mazak, Okuma, or similar.
- Strong understanding of machining practices, cutting tools, feeds, and speeds.
- Experience making tool offsets and performing machine setup.
- Basic CNC programming or program editing experience preferred.
- Strong mathematical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
- Proficiency with precision measuring equipment.
- Computer skills including Microsoft Office and manufacturing software experience preferred.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Excellent attention to detail and commitment to quality.
What We Offer
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage with affordable employee contribution rates.
- 401(k) plan with company match up to 4%.
- Life and AD&D insurance, short- and long-term disability coverage.
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP), including counseling, legal, and financial support.
- Paid Time Off (PTO) and 8 paid holidays.
- Flexible Spending Accounts for healthcare and dependent care.
- Wellness incentives and access to LiveHealth Online.
- Employee discount program with over 30,000 deals.
- Community engagement and volunteer opportunities.
EEO/Disabled/Veterans
Service Steel Aerospace provides equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability.