Milling operator

I. Core Responsibilities & Operations

• Advanced Setup & Operation: Independently perform complex setup of 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis Vertical Machining Centers (VMC) for production runs, including fixture alignment, tool pre-setting, and datum establishment.
• Program Ownership: Proficiently read, edit, and optimize existing CNC programs (G-code/M-code) for improved cycle time, tool life, and surface finish, particularly for complex, contoured aerospace parts.
• First-Part Approval (FPA): Responsibility for running the first component (first off), conducting full dimensional inspection, and signing off on the production setup sheet (Setup Verification).
• Troubleshooting: Act as the first line of defense for machine, tooling, and program issues, conducting root cause analysis (RCA) for non-conformances and implementing immediate corrective actions.
• Material Expertise: Expertly machine exotic aerospace materials such as Titanium, Inconel, Invar, and specialized aluminum/stainless steel alloys, understanding material-specific cutting parameters.

II. Quality, Inspection & Compliance

• GD&T Mastery: Expertly interpret complex engineering blueprints, technical drawings, and specifications using advanced Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) principles.
• Precision Measurement: Perform detailed, in-process, and final quality checks using a full range of precision instruments (e.g., micrometers, bore gauges, height masters, and surface roughness testers).
• Tolerancing: Consistently achieve and maintain ultra-tight tolerances, often in the range of $\pm 0.0005$ inches ($\pm 12 \mu m$) as required for flight-critical components.
• Documentation: Maintain meticulous and accurate production records, tool logs, inspection reports, and adherence to AS9100/ISO 9001 quality standards for traceability.

III. Process Optimization & Leadership

• Process Improvement: Proactively identify and propose Kaizen/Continuous Improvement initiatives related to tooling, fixturing, and machining strategies to increase productivity (throughput) and reduce scrap rates.
• Mentorship: Train, guide, and mentor junior operators and setters on best practices, machine safety, quality control procedures, and technical setup skills.
• Maintenance: Perform detailed preventive maintenance (PM) tasks and communicate complex machine performance issues to the maintenance team effectively to minimize downtime.

Experience: 4-5 years as a VMC Operator/Setter, preferably in Aerospace, Defence, or High-Precision manufacturing industries.

Machinery: Strong hands-on experience with 3/4/5-axis VMC machines (e.g., Haas, Fanuc, Siemens control systems).

Technical: Expert in GD&T and ability to read $\mu m/\mu in$ surface finish callouts.

Software: Ability to read/edit G-code; experience with CAM software (Mastercam, Siemens NX, PowerMill) is a significant advantage.

Education: Diploma in Mechanical Engineering