VA-Outside Machinist Instructor

Outside Machinist Trainer (Manual Machining)

Location:Newport News, VA

Position Type:Full-Time | 1st Shift

Relocation Assistance:Available

Travel:None

Work Authorization:U.S. Citizenship Required

Position Overview

HTI is seeking an experienced Outside Machinist Trainer to support a premier shipbuilding operation in the Charleston area. This role is responsible for training and developing outside machinists in manual machining, installation, and shipboard mechanical systems.

This is a hands-on training role, ideal for a senior outside machinist, lead, or foreman with strong mechanical aptitude and a passion for developing others.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver hands-on and classroom training in outside machining and shipboard mechanical work

• Train employees on:- Manual machining (lathes, milling machines, drilling, boring)

  • Installation, alignment, and maintenance of shipboard equipment and components
  • Precision measurement and tolerancing using micrometers, calipers, dial indicators, etc.

• Interpret and teach from blueprints, technical drawings, and work packages

• Develop and maintain training materials, lesson plans, and job aids

• Ensure adherence to safety standards, quality requirements, and shipyard procedures

• Evaluate trainee performance through hands-on demonstrations and assessments

• Maintain accurate training records and qualifications tracking

• Partner with production leadership to identify skill gaps and training needs

• Provide on-the-floor coaching to reinforce best practices and efficiency

Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED

• One of the following:- 6+ years of outside machinist or manual machining experience, OR

  • Apprenticeship or technical degree with relevant experience

• Strong experience with:- Manual machining (lathe, mill, drill, boring operations)

  • Precision measurement tools and alignment techniques
  • Mechanical installation and troubleshooting

• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings

• Strong communication skills with the ability to train and mentor others

• Comfortable working in a hands-on, industrial/shipyard environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience as a trainer, instructor, lead, or foreman
• Shipbuilding, naval, or heavy industrial experience
• Experience with shaft alignment, pumps, valves, turbines, or propulsion systems
• Familiarity with NAVSEA standards or similar quality systems
• Experience developing or delivering formal training programs

Work Environment

• Shipyard/industrial environment with exposure to:- Heavy equipment and machinery

  • Confined spaces and shipboard conditions
  • Noise, heat, and physically demanding work

• Requires ability to stand, climb, and perform hands-on demonstrations

Why This Role Stands Out

• Opportunity to train and develop highly specialized machinists
• Work on mission-critical naval systems and components
• Direct impact on quality, safety, and production performance
• Long-term, stable opportunity with a leading defense contractor

You should be proficient in:

• Blueprint Reading
• Boring mill
• drill press
• Engine Lathe
• Instructor
• Micrometer
• Shipboard
• Shipboard mechanical systems
• Teaching
• Vertical/Horizontal Milling machine
• NAVSEA systems