The Machinist Apprentice performs finishing and post-processing operations and builds the foundational skills needed to advance to Machinist 1.
As a leader in US manufacturing, Hirsh Precision strives to bring new levels of productivity and product innovation into the medical, aerospace, industrial, and scientific industries by leveraging software, advanced manufacturing techniques, and new manufacturing systems.
Our company maintains a reputation of integrity, quality, service, and excellence due to the efforts of our passionate, engaged team members. We are committed to preserving our company culture as we grow and doing work that improves people's lives.
Position Summary
The Machinist Apprentice supports manufacturing by performing finishing and post-processing operations, including deburring, surface finishing, and part marking. This role is a development position designed to build the foundational skills required to advance to a Machinist Level 1.
In addition to secondary operations, this role includes introductory machine operation on vertical mills and twin turret lathes under supervision, providing hands-on experience aligned with Machinist 1 expectations.
Key Responsibilities:
Secondary Operations:
- Perform deburring of machined components to remove sharp edges and burrs
- Operate Roto finish equipment for surface finishing and edge conditioning
- Operate Empire blasting equipment to achieve required surface finishes
- Perform laser marking per job specifications
- Clean and prepare parts for inspection or next operations
Entry-Level Machine Operation (Developmental):
- Operate vertical CNC mills for simple, repeatable production work under supervision
- Operate twin turret lathes for basic production tasks under supervision
- Load/unload parts, monitor cycle times, and ensure proper part handling
- Perform basic offset adjustments as directed
- Follow setup sheets, work instructions, and standardized procedures
- Escalate issues to Lead Machinist or Supervisor when needed
Quality & Inspection:
- Follow work instructions, prints, and job travelers
- Perform basic inspection using hand tools (calipers, micrometers, gauges)
- Identify and report defects, nonconformances, or inconsistencies
- Ensure parts meet cosmetic and dimensional requirements
Production Support:
- Maintain part flow between machining, inspection, and shipping
- Prioritize work based on production schedules
- Communicate effectively with machinists, leads, and supervisors
- Support continuous improvement and 6S initiatives
Equipment & Safety:
- Safely operate all secondary equipment (Roto, Empire, laser, mills, lathes)
- Follow all PPE and safety requirements
- Maintain a clean and organized work area
- Report any unsafe conditions or equipment issues
Development Expectations (Path to Machinist 1):
- Gain hands-on experience running vertical mills and twin turret lathes
- Learn basic blueprint reading and GD&T fundamentals
- Develop measurement and inspection skills
- Understand machining processes, tooling, and offsets
- Demonstrate ability to run simple production jobs independently over time
- Show initiative in learning and supporting machinists
- Progress toward meeting all Machinist 1 competency requirements
Key Competencies:
- Mechanical aptitude
- Strong attention to detail
- Blueprint reading ability
- Pride in workmanship
- Dependability and punctuality
- Problem-solving mindset
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Success Factors:
- Consistent quality and attention to detail
- Reliability and strong attendance
- Willingness to learn and take on new challenges
- Positive attitude and teamwork
- Demonstrated progress in both secondary operations and machine operation skills